How To Smoke Beer Can Chicken In An Electric Smoker

Smoking Beer Can Chicken in an Electric Smoker

Smoking beer can chicken in an electric smoker is a delicious and easy way to infuse your poultry with rich, smoky flavor. This cooking method results in tender, juicy chicken with crispy skin that will have your taste buds singing. If you’re new to smoking meats or just looking for a new recipe to try, smoking beer can chicken is a fantastic option.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment on hand:

• A whole chicken
• Beer or your favorite liquid seasoning
• Seasoning rub of your choice
• Electric smoker
• Wood chips or pellets
• Meat thermometer

Preparing the Chicken

Start by prepping the chicken. Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity, then rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Next, season the chicken generously with your favorite rub, making sure to cover the entire surface of the bird, including inside the cavity.

Setting Up the Smoker

Now it’s time to prepare your electric smoker. Fill the smoker’s water pan with water or your choice of liquid, such as beer, to keep the chicken moist during the smoking process. Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your wood chips or pellets to the smoker box. For beer can chicken, fruit woods like apple or cherry work well to complement the flavors.

Smoking the Chicken

Once the smoker is preheated and the wood is producing smoke, it’s time to smoke the chicken. Open a can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about half of the liquid. Slide the chicken cavity over the beer can so that the chicken is standing upright with the can inserted into the cavity. Carefully transfer the chicken on the beer can to the smoker grate, making sure it’s stable and won’t tip over.

Close the smoker and let the chicken smoke at 225°F (107°C) for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken (usually the thigh) reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carefully removing the beer can. Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Smoking beer can chicken in an electric smoker is a fantastic way to elevate your barbecue game. The combination of smoky flavors and juicy meat is sure to make this dish a favorite among your family and friends. So fire up your electric smoker, grab a cold beer, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering beer can chicken!