The Ultimate Guide to Beer Can Chicken Rub

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Beer can chicken is a classic BBQ recipe that involves placing a whole chicken on top of a half-full can of beer, which seeps into the meat as it cooks, infusing it with rich, flavorful liquid. But to really take your beer can chicken to the next level, you need a good rub. A rub is a seasoning blend applied to the chicken that will give it an extra layer of flavor and help it develop a crispy, caramelized skin. In this post, we’ll dive into the world of beer can chicken rub, including its history, how to make your own, and some common questions people have about this beloved BBQ staple.

A Brief History of Beer Can Chicken Rub

Beer can chicken has been a staple of American BBQ since the 1980s, when it first started to appear in outdoor cooking magazines and on cooking shows. While the exact origins of the recipe are unclear, many people believe it was invented by a group of southern pitmasters who were looking for a new way to cook chicken with beer. Since then, beer can chicken has become a popular dish at backyard cookouts and BBQ competitions alike, and the range of rubs and seasonings used to flavor it has expanded along with its popularity.

Making Your Own Beer Can Chicken Rub

There are countless commercial rubs on the market that you can use to season your beer can chicken, but making your own is simple and lets you tailor the flavor to your taste. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

  1. 1/4 cup kosher salt
  2. 1/4 cup brown sugar
  3. 2 tbsp paprika
  4. 1 tbsp garlic powder
  5. 1 tbsp onion powder
  6. 1/2 tbsp black pepper
  7. 1/2 tbsp cumin

To use this rub, pat your chicken dry with paper towels and then liberally season it with the rub, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies. You can also place some of the rub inside the cavity of the chicken to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.

Subheadings in Beer Can Chicken Rub:

1. Experiment with Different Flavors

While the recipe above is a good starting point, there are endless ways to tweak your beer can chicken rub to suit your personal preferences. Try adding some heat with cayenne pepper or chili powder, or go for a more savory profile with thyme, oregano, or rosemary. You can also experiment with different sugars like honey or maple syrup to give your rub a slightly sweet note.

2. Don’t Forget the Oil

To help your rub stick to the chicken and give it a crispy crust, it’s important to add some oil to the mix. You can use any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, or go for something with a bit more flavor like extra-virgin olive oil. Just be sure to use it sparingly, as too much oil can make your chicken skin soggy instead of crispy.

3. Let Your Chicken Rest

Once your chicken is seasoned and ready to go, don’t rush to put it on the grill. Letting it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour) will give the rub time to penetrate the meat and the skin to dry out, which will help it get nice and crispy. This also allows the meat to reach room temperature, which will help it cook evenly.

4. Use a Thermometer

Beer can chicken can be tricky to cook properly since it involves a whole chicken, which can be difficult to cook evenly. To ensure your chicken is cooked through without drying out, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken, which is usually the thigh.

Concluding Thoughts on Beer Can Chicken Rub

Beer can chicken is a classic BBQ recipe that has stood the test of time, and with good reason. It’s easy to make, fun to cook, and always a crowd-pleaser. Adding a rub to your chicken takes it to the next level, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. While there are countless commercial rubs available, making your own is easy and lets you customize the flavor to your liking. Just remember to keep the chicken moist by adding some beer or other liquid to the pan, and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

FAQs About Beer Can Chicken Rub

1. Can I use other liquids besides beer?

Absolutely! While beer is the traditional liquid used in beer can chicken, you can experiment with other liquids like wine, broth, or cider for different flavors. Just make sure the liquid doesn’t boil away too quickly, as you don’t want your chicken to dry out.

2. Do I need to brine my chicken before using a rub?

It’s not necessary, but it can help your chicken stay moist and juicy while it cooks. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking, which helps it retain moisture. If you do decide to brine your chicken, be sure to rinse it well before applying the rub.

3. How long does it take to cook beer can chicken?

It depends on the size of the chicken and the temperature of your grill, but in general, beer can chicken takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to cook. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as the cooking time can vary depending on a number of factors.

4. Can I use a different type of poultry besides chicken?

Yes! Beer can turkey, duck, and even game birds like quail can all be cooked using a similar method with a rub. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly based on the size of the bird.

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