Elevate your grilling game with Grilled Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken, a fun and flavorful dish that infuses the chicken with moisture and a kick of spices.
This method involves placing a can of beer inside the chicken while it cooks, allowing the flavors to seep in, resulting in perfectly tender and juicy meat. The Tex-Mex seasoning adds a delicious twist, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve Grilled Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken hot off the grill, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like Mexican Street Corn Salad, Cilantro Lime Rice, or Black Bean and Avocado Salad.
For an extra touch, consider serving it with a side of Homemade Salsa for dipping.
Tips and Notes
- Chicken: Use a whole, fresh chicken, around 3-4 pounds for the best results. Ensure it’s thoroughly thawed if frozen.
- Beer: Choose a light lager or ale for the beer can. You can also use non-alcoholic beer or soda if preferred.
- Seasoning: Coat the chicken generously with a Tex-Mex spice blend, including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Position the chicken upright on the grill with the beer can inserted into the cavity. Grill for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Safety Tip: Use caution when handling the beer can; it will be hot. Consider using tongs to remove the chicken from the grill.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to maintain moisture.
Enjoy the juicy and flavorful experience of Grilled Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken as a standout dish for your next barbecue!
Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken
Equipment
- Grill
- Large roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken - approximately 4-5 pounds
- 1 can of beer
- 4 cloves of garlic - minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil
- Lime wedges - for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
- Open the can of beer and take a few sips to make room for the chicken.
- Place the beer can in the middle of a roasting pan.
- Carefully lower the chicken onto the beer can, with the can inserted into the cavity.
- Move the chicken and can onto the grill, making sure it is stable on the can.
- Close the grill and cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using tongs and place it on a cutting board.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before removing it from the can and carving it into serving pieces.
- Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the chicken.
- Enjoy your Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken!