When it comes to smoking a delicious beer can chicken, one of the most crucial aspects is ensuring that it is cooked to perfection. And how do you determine if it’s done just right? By using a meat thermometer, of course! But where exactly should you place the thermometer to get an accurate reading for your beer can chicken? Let’s delve into this mouth-watering topic and find out.
1. Thermapen Instant-Read Thermometer
If you own a Thermapen Instant-Read Thermometer, you’re in luck! This versatile tool can be inserted into several different locations to give you a precise reading. Some experts recommend inserting the probe into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone. This ensures that you’re measuring the temperature of the meat, which is the most important part.
2. Poultry Thermometer
If you have a specialized poultry thermometer, it usually comes with a convenient pop-up feature. These thermometers are designed to be placed in the thickest part of the chicken breast. The pop-up feature pops up when the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, signaling that it’s cooked thoroughly.
3. Digital Probe Thermometer
In the case of a digital probe thermometer, you’ll want to insert it into the thickest part of the chicken thigh without touching the bone. The thigh is typically the slowest part to cook, so it’s crucial to monitor its temperature to ensure both safety and taste.
4. Classic Meat Thermometer
If you’re using a classic meat thermometer, you’ll need to insert it into the innermost part of the thigh, near the breast, but not touching the bone. This will give you a reliable reading and ensure that your beer can chicken is cooked thoroughly.
5. Remote Digital Thermometer
For those who prefer the convenience of a remote digital thermometer, you can insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken breast or thigh, depending on which part you’d like to monitor closely. Just remember to avoid touching the bone with the probe to get an accurate temperature reading.
6. Avoiding the Beer Can
Regardless of the type of thermometer you use, it’s important to note that you should avoid inserting the probe directly into the beer can. While the beer can contributes to the flavor and moisture of the chicken, the temperature of the liquid inside might not accurately reflect the doneness of the meat. It’s best to focus on the chicken itself when checking for doneness.
7. The Importance of Temperature
When smoking a beer can chicken, achieving the ideal internal temperature is crucial for both safety and taste. The USDA recommends cooking poultry, including chicken, to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure that any harmful bacteria are destroyed. However, many chefs and enthusiasts prefer a slightly lower temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) in order to maintain juiciness and tenderness.
8. The Juicy Sweet Spot
While monitoring the temperature is important, so is achieving that perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken. By smoking the beer can chicken at a lower temperature initially, around 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107 degrees Celsius), you allow the meat to slowly absorb the smoky flavors, resulting in a more tender and moist bird. Then, when you crank up the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius) in the final stage, the skin becomes crispy and golden, sealing in the juices of the chicken.
9. Cook Time and Tips
Smoking a beer can chicken usually takes between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the bird and the specific smoker or grill you’re using. It’s important to use a meat thermometer at various intervals to ensure that the internal temperature is steadily rising and approaching the desired range. Additionally, basting the chicken with a flavorful marinade or BBQ sauce every hour can enhance its taste and help to keep the meat moist.
10. Let it Rest
Once your beer can chicken has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the heat source and let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness when you carve into it.
11. Carving and Enjoying
Now that your beer can chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to carve it up and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Carefully remove the beer can from the cavity, and then proceed to carve the chicken into desired portions. Whether you’re serving it with some classic sides like mashed potatoes and cornbread or using it to make flavorful tacos, your beer can chicken is sure to delight everyone at the table.
12. Experiment and Enjoy
Now that you know where to place the thermometer in a beer can chicken, you can confidently smoke one to perfection each time. Remember to experiment with different rubs, marinades, and wood chips to tailor the flavor to your liking. With some practice and a little bit of patience, you’ll soon become the master of the perfect beer can chicken recipe.
