Perfect Beer Can Chicken on a Traeger Grill

Brew up some major flavor. All it takes is our Chicken Rub, a can of beer, and some Traeger mesquite heat for moist & tender poultry perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 Whole (3-5 lb) chicken
• Traeger Chicken Rub (as needed)
• 1 Can beer

Steps

1. Season Chicken: Generously season the chicken with Traeger Chicken Rub, including inside the cavity.
2. Prepare Chicken: Tuck the wing tips back.
3. Preheat Grill: When ready to cook, set Traeger to 350℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
4. Set Up Beer Can: Open the can of beer and set the chicken on top of it. Ensure all but the bottom 1-1/2 inch of the beer can is inside the cavity. Alternatively, place the beer can directly on the grill grates, then place the chicken on top.
5. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken and beer can directly on the grill grate. Cook for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature registers 165℉ in the thickest part of the breast.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and onto a sheet tray. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Lay the bird on its back, remove the beer can, carve, and enjoy!

Grilling Beer Can Chicken

Beer can chicken, a staple of backyard barbecues, combines simplicity and flavor for a dish that impresses with minimal effort. This method, perfected by the team at Traeger Grills, infuses the chicken with the aromatic essence of beer, while the mesquite heat adds a delightful smoky flavor.

Ingredients and Preparation

The beauty of beer can chicken lies in its straightforward ingredient list. A whole chicken, weighing between three to five pounds, is the star of the show. The seasoning, Traeger Chicken Rub, enhances the natural flavors of the poultry, ensuring a savory taste in every bite. The beer, both a cooking tool and flavor enhancer, steams the chicken from the inside, keeping it moist and tender.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Season Generously: Begin by liberally applying the Traeger Chicken Rub over the entire chicken, making sure to get inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat Your Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 350℉ and allow it to preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. This ensures the grill is at the perfect temperature for even cooking.
3. Beer Can Placement: Open a can of your favorite beer and carefully place the chicken over the can. Make sure the can is inserted into the cavity, with about 1-1/2 inches protruding. Alternatively, you can place the can on the grill grates first, then position the chicken on top.
4. Grill to Perfection: Place the beer can chicken directly on the grill grate. Cook for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165℉ in the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. Rest and Carve: Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier bird. Lay the chicken on its back, remove the beer can, and carve it up.

Conclusion

Grilling beer can chicken is not just about the end result but the experience. The process is engaging and brings a sense of anticipation as the aromas fill the air. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a family meal, beer can chicken is sure to be a hit. So fire up your Traeger grill, grab a can of beer, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of this classic dish.