If you’re tired of dry, bland chicken dinners, this baked beer can chicken in the oven is about to become your new favorite recipe. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, packed with bold seasoning, and turns out juicy and tender every single time.
The magic happens when the chicken roasts upright over a can of beer. As it cooks, the steam keeps the meat moist while the spice rub creates a flavorful crust on the outside. The result? Crispy skin, juicy meat, and a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.
This is one of those simple family dinners that feels special but requires very little effort. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Beer Can Chicken
- Super juicy and tender inside
- Crispy, well-seasoned skin
- Simple pantry spices
- Easy oven method (no grill needed)
- Perfect for family dinners
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this oven-baked beer can chicken:
For the Seasoning Rub
- ¼ cup garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons seasoned salt
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper
This seasoning blend gives the chicken a bold, savory flavor with a hint of herbal freshness from the oregano.
For the Chicken
- 2 (12-ounce) cans light-flavored beer (such as Bud Light), divided
- 1 (3-pound) whole chicken
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 4 green onions, cut in half crosswise
The beer helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. Light beer works best because it adds flavor without overpowering the chicken.
How to Make Baked Beer Can Chicken in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Gather all your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine:
- Garlic powder
- Seasoned salt
- Onion powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix well until fully combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Beer Base
Pour about â…“ of the first beer can into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place the open beer can upright in the center of the baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken under cold running water.
- Remove and discard giblets and neck.
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels.
Place the chicken carefully over the open beer can so it stands upright, with the legs at the bottom.
Step 5: Tuck the Wings
Using a small knife, cut a small slit on each side of the chicken breast.
Tuck the tip of each wing into the slits. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents the wings from burning.
Step 6: Season the Chicken
Rub the prepared garlic seasoning mixture all over the chicken. Make sure to coat it evenly, covering every surface.
Press the sliced green onions onto the outside of the chicken.
Insert the halved green onions into the top cavity of the chicken.
Step 7: Add More Beer
Pour about ½ of the second beer can into the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dish carefully into the preheated oven.
Bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, pour the remaining beer into the pan under the chicken.
Continue baking for about 30 more minutes, or until:
- The juices run clear
- The meat is no longer pink at the bone
- An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 180°F (82°C)
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Carefully remove the chicken from the oven.
Discard the beer can.
Loosely cover the chicken with a doubled sheet of aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Tips for the Best Beer Can Chicken
- Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
- Don’t skip the resting time — it makes a big difference.
- Use a sturdy beer can and handle carefully when removing from the oven.
- Make sure the chicken is stable and upright before baking.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:
- Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in a little brown sugar for a sweet-savory twist.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano.
- Add lemon zest to the seasoning for a fresh citrus touch.
You can easily adjust the spices to match your family’s taste.
What to Serve with Beer Can Chicken
This chicken pairs perfectly with:
- Fresh garden salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Corn on the cob
- Garlic bread
It’s a complete meal that works for weeknights or weekend dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Remove meat from bones before freezing.
- Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
- You can also microwave in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.
Baked Beer Can Chicken in the Oven
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix garlic powder, seasoned salt, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Pour 1/3 of one beer can into a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the open can upright in the center.
- Rinse chicken, remove giblets, pat dry, and place chicken upright over the beer can.
- Cut small slits in each side of the breast and tuck wings into the slits.
- Rub seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Press sliced green onions onto the outside and insert halved green onions into the cavity.
- Pour half of the second beer can into the baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes. Pour remaining beer into the pan and bake 30 minutes more, until internal temperature reaches 180°F (82°C).
- Remove chicken, discard beer can, cover loosely with foil, and rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Always check doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing for best results.
FAQs
Does the alcohol cook off?
Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind flavor.
Can I use any type of beer?
Yes, but light beer works best for balanced flavor.
Can I make this without beer?
You can substitute chicken broth or soda if needed, though the flavor will change.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 180°F in the thigh.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 564
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 49g
(Nutrition values may vary depending on actual ingredient usage.)
