Beer butt chicken, also known as beer can chicken, is a classic barbecue dish that combines the juiciness of roasted chicken with the subtle flavor infusion of beer. When paired with a zesty lime twist, the result is a tender, flavorful chicken that leaves your taste buds craving more. In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process of creating the perfect Roasted Beer Butt Lime Chicken, offer cooking tips and variations, and explain why this recipe has become a favorite among home cooks.
What Does Beer Do to Cooking Chicken?
Cooking chicken with a beer can inserted in the cavity serves multiple purposes. The beer inside the can steams as the chicken roasts, which helps keep the meat moist. The beer also imparts a subtle flavor to the chicken, depending on the type of beer you use. This process results in a perfectly tender, juicy bird with a crispy, golden-brown skin.
What Is the Best Liquid to Use for Beer Can Chicken?
While beer is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other liquids such as cider, soda, or even wine. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to the chicken. For our Roasted Beer Butt Lime Chicken, a light beer like Corona works particularly well due to its crisp taste and refreshing lime accents.
Ingredients for Roasted Beer Butt Lime Chicken
Main Ingredients:
- Whole chicken (4-5 lbs) – 1
- Beer can (12 oz) – 1 can of light beer (Corona or similar)
- Lime – 1, halved
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 2 teaspoons
- Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Beer Can Chicken Rub Ingredients:
- Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
- Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Ground mustard – ½ teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro – Chopped, for garnish
- Extra lime wedges – For serving
Instructions for Roasted Beer Butt Lime Chicken
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a grill, preheat to medium-high heat (about 350°F).
- Remove any giblets from the cavity of the chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
- Rub the inside of the chicken cavity with one half of the lime, then squeeze the juice from both lime halves over the outside of the chicken.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it all over the skin to ensure even coverage. This helps the seasoning adhere and crisps the skin.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This will be your primary seasoning mix.
- In another bowl, mix the beer can chicken rub ingredients: brown sugar, chili powder, dried oregano, ground mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Generously rub both the primary seasoning mix and the rub onto the entire surface of the chicken, including under the skin where possible.
Step 3: Inserting the Beer Can
- Open the can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about 1/3 of the liquid. Place the remaining half of the lime inside the beer can.
- Insert the beer can into the cavity of the chicken, ensuring the chicken is sitting upright with its legs and beer can acting as a tripod.
Step 4: Roasting the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan or use a beer butt chicken stand to ensure stability during cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- For those using a grill, cook over indirect heat with the lid closed for the same duration, checking the internal temperature periodically.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the beer can and lime from the cavity (use tongs as it will be hot).
- Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips and Variations
Why Is Roast Chicken So Good?
Roast chicken is celebrated for its combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and the deep, savory flavors that develop as it cooks. In the case of beer can chicken, the added steam from the beer helps maintain the chicken’s moisture while also creating a succulent texture that’s hard to beat.
Cooking Beer Butt Chicken in the Oven
While beer can chicken is often cooked on the grill, it can easily be adapted for the oven. The key is to roast it in a deep pan with ample space for the chicken to stand upright. Make sure to monitor the cooking time based on the size of the bird. For a 5lb beer can chicken in the oven, expect a cooking time of around 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits the desired level.
Is Corona Good for Beer Can Chicken?
Corona is an excellent choice for this recipe, especially when paired with lime. Its light, citrusy notes enhance the flavors of the chicken without overpowering the rub and seasonings. Other light beers, such as pilsners or wheat beers, also work well.
Beer Butt Chicken Rub Recipe Variations
If you want to add more complexity to your rub, try incorporating other spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper for heat, or a hint of cinnamon for a touch of sweetness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices.
Beer Butt Chicken on the Grill
For grilling, make sure to cook over indirect heat to avoid flare-ups from the dripping fat. A good method is to use a two-zone cooking setup on your grill, with the coals or burners on one side and the chicken on the other.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a flavorful chicken dinner, this Roasted Beer Butt Lime Chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress. The combination of beer, lime, and perfectly balanced seasonings creates a succulent, juicy bird with crispy skin that’s bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with us in the comments and subscribe to our newsletter for more mouthwatering recipes. And if you loved this recipe, check out our other grilled chicken dishes and side options to complete your meal.