A Q&A with Steven Raichlen on Beer-Can Chicken Revised

Barbecue University™. I didn’t invent it—I learned the technique from the Bryce Boar Blazers—but am confident I helped popularize beer-can chicken, which is now prepared in backyards all over the country. Make that world. As to the second part of your question—why now?—I thought it was time to introduce a new generation of grillers to this joyful, whimsical way to cook chicken. Also, the Instagram generation expects colorful graphics, and will appreciate the addition to the redesigned manuscript with inspiring and illustrative color photos!

What makes beer-can chicken special?

I don’t think I’m overstating it: beer-can chicken is irresistible. It’s theater. Grilling a whole chicken upright—even in an…ahem…indecorous position—allows the bird to cook evenly on the front and back. The fat drains off, leaving the skin crackling crisp and the meat incredibly moist. Hopefully, the chicken will be cooked with wood smoke. (Though you can absolutely cook a beer-can chicken in your oven.) It’s an opportunity for hilarity, for a bit of culinary fun. And a pox on the haters.

Honestly, can you taste the beer?

During the development of the book, I experimented with many birds, liquids, and seasonings. Yes, I’ve used everything from beer to wine to soda to fruit juices. If it’s discernible at all, the flavors from the liquids will be subtle. (My stable beer-can chicken roaster makes it easier to interchange liquids.) I heartily recommend drinking a beer or two while the bird cooks. Then you’ll have a hoppy, malty start on things.

What else is in the book?

Beer-can chicken is just the start! See many international variations. You’ll also find many offbeat recipes, including directions for turkey, quail, and other birds, amazing barbecue rubs and sauces, “stoned” chickens, “caviar” on the coals, pepper soup on the grill, hash on the half shell, and many more enticing recipes, including some for desserts.

Here’s a question we often get: Is beer can chicken safe to eat, or is there migration between the can (or graphics on the can)?

Yes, beer-can chicken is 100 percent safe. The cans are decorated with edible ink; I had this tested in a lab. Again, if you have any concerns, use my stainless steel chicken roaster.

What’s next for Steven Raichlen?

I have been working on a new book devoted to grilling on flat-top griddles and planchas. Smash burgers are just the beginning! Look for its release in May, 2025.

BUY NOW »

Check out our 1000+ Recipes section here on Barbecue Bible.Com

Also, sign up for our Up in Smoke newsletter so you don’t miss any blogs and receive some special offers! PLUS get Raichlen’s Burgers! PDF for free!

Follow Steven on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Reddit, and Pinterest!