Cajun-Style Beer Can Chicken
Indulge in the bold flavors of our Cajun-Style Beer Can Chicken, a juicy and flavorful whole chicken seasoned with Zatarain's Cajun Crab Boil and infused with the rich taste of beer. This easy grilling recipe allows the chicken to cook upright, ensuring even roasting while locking in moisture. Perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings, this dish will have your guests clamoring for seconds. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
6
Servings
250
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Chicken
1 (cleaned and excess fat removed)
Zatarain's Crab Boil
to taste (for seasoning inside and outside of the chicken)
Beer
6 ounces (any type of your choice, preferably lager or pale ale)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2
Wash the chicken thoroughly, removing any excess fat and patting it dry with paper towels.
3
Season the chicken generously inside and out with Zatarain's Crab Boil, ensuring all surfaces are coated for maximum flavor.
4
Open the beer can and drink or pour out about half of it. Place the half-empty can inside the cavity of the chicken to help support it while cooking and to infuse it with moisture.
5
Carefully prop the chicken upright on the grill by inserting the beer can into the designated cavity. Use the grill's side burners for a more indirect cooking method if possible.
6
Close the grill lid and cook the chicken for approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
7
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for about 10 minutes, then remove the beer can before carving.
8
Serve hot and enjoy the smoky, Cajun-infused flavor!
Nutrition Information
16.67g
Fat
0.83g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cajun-Style Beer Can Chicken?
It is a juicy and flavorful whole chicken seasoned with Zatarain's Cajun Crab Boil and roasted upright over a beer can to lock in moisture and flavor.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients for Cajun-Style Beer Can Chicken?
The main ingredients are one whole chicken, Zatarain's Crab Boil for seasoning, and 6 ounces of beer.
What kind of beer should I use?
Any type of your choice can be used, though lager or pale ale are preferably recommended.
How much beer should be in the can during cooking?
The beer can should be about half-empty, containing approximately 6 ounces of liquid.
What is the primary seasoning used in this recipe?
The recipe uses Zatarain's Cajun Crab Boil to provide a bold, spicy flavor.
How should I prepare the chicken before seasoning?
Wash the chicken thoroughly, remove any excess fat, and pat it dry with paper towels.
What grill temperature is required?
You should preheat your grill to medium heat before starting the cooking process.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The chicken typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours to cook fully.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
What is the benefit of cooking the chicken upright?
Cooking the chicken upright ensures even roasting while the beer can infuses the meat with moisture.
Should I use direct or indirect heat on the grill?
If possible, use the grill's side burners for a more indirect cooking method to prevent burning.
Do I need to leave the grill lid open or closed?
You should close the grill lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 20 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, it is very low in carbs with only 0.83g per serving.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 16.67 grams of fat per serving.
Should the chicken rest after grilling?
Yes, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before removing the can and carving.
When do I remove the beer can?
Carefully remove the beer can after the 10-minute resting period, just before you carve the meat.
Can I use this recipe for a summer barbecue?
Yes, it is considered a perfect recipe for summer barbecues and family gatherings.
Is this considered an easy grilling recipe?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy grilling recipe suitable for various skill levels.
What is another name for this type of dish?
It is also commonly known as 'Drunken Chicken' or 'Grilled Beer Can Chicken'.
How do I season the chicken for maximum flavor?
Apply Zatarain's Crab Boil generously both inside the cavity and all over the outside of the chicken.
Can I use any other brand of Cajun seasoning?
While Zatarain's is specified for this Cajun-style flavor, you can use other Cajun rubs to taste.
Is this recipe high in fiber?
No, this recipe contains no fiber as it is primarily a meat-based dish.
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
It pairs well with favorite BBQ sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or potato salad.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data, there is no sugar in this recipe.
Can I use a larger beer can?
A standard 12-ounce can is usually best for stability, as long as it is half-empty.
How do I ensure the chicken doesn't tip over?
Carefully prop the chicken using the beer can and its own legs to create a 'tripod' for stability.
Does this recipe include any dairy?
No, this Cajun-Style Beer Can Chicken recipe is dairy-free.