Spicy Beer-Infused Roasted Chicken
Discover this lively and flavorful twist on traditional roasted chicken, featuring a juicy beer can method infused with jalapeño juice and aromatic herbs. Delight your taste buds with the perfect balance of spice and succulence, suitable for any gathering or cozy family dinner.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole chicken
1 (rinsed and excess fat removed)
small onion
1 (finely chopped)
garlic clove
1 (finely chopped)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (ground)
jalapeño juice
as needed (from a jar or fresh)
beer
1 can (half-filled)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for an ambient temperature of 350°F (175°C). If you're using an oven, set it to the same temperature.
2
While the grill is heating, prepare your chicken by thoroughly rinsing under cold water and removing any excess fat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3
Season the entire chicken generously with salt and pepper, ensuring you cover both the inside cavity and exterior. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
4
Finely chop the small onion and garlic clove. In a separate bowl, mix these aromatics with a generous splash of jalapeño juice. This mix will add a zesty kick to your dish.
5
Crack open a can of your preferred beer and pour out about half (or enjoy it as a pre-cooking refreshment). Carefully fill the remaining beer can with the onion and garlic mixture. If desired, you can add a few whole fresh jalapeño slices for extra heat.
6
Place the beer can upright in the center of the grill. Gently position the chicken over the can, with its legs downward, propping it into a seated position. The can should fully support the chicken.
7
Close the grill lid and allow the chicken to cook over indirect heat, undisturbed, for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness - the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding bone contact.
8
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Enjoy your flavorful beer-infused chicken with your favorite sides.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Beer-Infused Roasted Chicken?
It is a succulent whole chicken recipe cooked using a beer can to infuse moisture and spice from jalapeño juice and aromatics.
What temperature should the grill be preheated to?
The grill should be set to medium-high heat, aiming for an ambient temperature of approximately 350°F (175°C).
Can I cook this chicken in an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, you can roast the chicken in an oven at the same temperature of 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the chicken for roasting?
Rinse the chicken under cold water, remove any excess fat, and pat it dry with paper towels.
What basic seasonings are used?
The chicken is seasoned generously with salt and pepper on both the exterior and inside the cavity.
What ingredients are added to the beer can?
The beer can is filled with a mixture of finely chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño juice.
How much beer should be in the can when cooking starts?
The can should be about half-filled with beer before adding the other aromatic ingredients.
Where should the beer can be placed on the grill?
The beer can should be placed upright in the center of the grill for indirect heating.
How is the chicken sat on the beer can?
The chicken is positioned over the can with its legs downward so the can supports it in a seated position.
How long does the cooking process take?
The chicken typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours to cook over indirect heat until it reaches the safe internal temperature.
What internal temperature indicates the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) as measured by a meat thermometer.
Where is the best place to check the chicken's temperature?
Check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring the thermometer does not touch the bone.
Should the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
Can I use fresh jalapeños for more heat?
Yes, you can add a few whole fresh jalapeño slices into the beer can for extra spiciness.
What type of grill setting is required?
The chicken should be cooked over indirect heat with the grill lid closed to maintain temperature.
What is the preparation for the onion?
One small onion should be finely chopped before being mixed with the other aromatics for the beer can.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for one garlic clove, which should be finely chopped.
What is the source of the jalapeño juice?
You can use jalapeño juice from a jar or use fresh juice to provide the zesty kick.
Can I use any beer for this recipe?
Yes, you can use one can of your preferred beer to infuse the chicken with moisture.
Why do I need to pat the chicken dry?
Drying the chicken helps ensure the seasonings adhere properly and the skin roasts more effectively.
Is this a spicy dish?
Yes, the infusion of jalapeño juice into the beer can provide a zesty kick and spicy flavor profile.
What are the recommended tags for this dish?
Tags include beer can chicken, spicy chicken, grilled chicken, and beer-infused roasted chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is perfect for both casual family dinners and social gatherings.
Does the recipe require many ingredients?
No, it is a relatively simple recipe with a count of 7 main ingredients.
Is indirect heat important?
Yes, indirect heat allows the chicken to cook evenly without burning the exterior skin.
What should I do with the remaining beer in the can after cooking?
The remaining liquid in the can should be carefully discarded after the chicken is removed from the grill.
How do I remove the chicken from the grill safely?
Carefully lift the chicken and the can together using grill mitts or tongs, being mindful of the hot steam and liquid.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper amounts?
Yes, the amounts of salt and pepper should be adjusted according to your personal taste preference.
What should I serve with this chicken?
You can serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, corn, or a fresh garden salad.