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tex mex grilled can chicken

Tex-Mex Beer-Can Chicken

This Tex-Mex inspired chicken is cooked using a beer can as a stand, infusing the meat with delicious flavors. It's an easy and flavorful way to prepare a whole chicken for your next barbecue or family dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

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!

Notes

For a spicier version, add 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
You can also use a can of soda or cider instead of beer for different flavors.
For a more hands-off approach, you can also cook the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
This recipe can also be made with chicken thighs or drumsticks for individual servings.
Serve with your favorite Tex-Mex sides, such as rice and beans, corn on the cob, or grilled vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword Barbecue, BBQ, Chicken, Grilled
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