Cola Barbecued Beer Can Chicken
Get ready to transform backyard grilling with this irresistible Cola Barbecued Beer Can Chicken recipe! This juicy, tender roast chicken is infused with bold flavors thanks to a unique combination of a half-filled beer can and a cola-based barbecue glaze. The chicken is seasoned with a smoky, slightly spicy spice rub, then slow-cooked over indirect heat for perfectly succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat. A rich and sticky homemade cola barbecue sauce, made with ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a medley of spices, caramelizes on the chicken in the final stages of grilling for a crave-worthy, glossy finish. Perfect for summer barbecues or weekend gatherings, this standout dish pairs wonderfully with grilled veggies or a crisp salad. Whether you're a grilling pro or a novice, this beer can chicken recipe is a must-try masterpiece with bold flavors and fun cooking techniques that wow every time.
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Ingredients
- 1 3 to 4-pound whole chicken
- 1 12-ounce can of beer
- 1 cup cola
- 1 cup ketchup
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
Step 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) for indirect cooking. If using coal, move the hot coals to one side to create a cooler zone.
Step 2
Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Step 3
Brush the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub the seasonings evenly all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
Step 4
Open the beer can and pour out (or drink!) half of its contents, leaving the remaining half in the can. Place the can on a stable surface and lower the chicken cavity onto the can, making sure the chicken is upright and balanced.
Step 5
Carefully place the chicken on the cooler zone of the grill (indirect heat) and close the grill lid. Cook for about 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (measured with a meat thermometer). Rotate the chicken occasionally for even cooking.
Step 6
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cola barbecue glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cola, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened.
Step 7
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken generously with the cola barbecue glaze. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly on the chicken while it finishes cooking.
Step 8
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the grill. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before gently removing it from the beer can.
Step 9
Carve and serve the chicken with your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (2359.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1241.3 |
| Total Fat 39.6g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 7.6g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 102.1mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3758.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 176.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.3g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 147.1g | |
| Protein 29.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 139.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 4.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 796.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories