Smoked Beer Can Chicken

A classic for the smoker.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 Tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic flakes
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary leaves
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
• 1 whole chicken
• extra virgin olive optional
• 12 oz soda or fruit juice

Instructions

1. Brine the chicken (optional)
2. Mix dry ingredients
3. Rub chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle the dry mixture over top and under skin
4. Leave chicken sit on counter
5. Preheat smoker to 225°F to 240°F
6. Open soda and empty out half of contents
7. Place can on smoker grate and fit chicken on top of the can
8. Cook for 2 hours then insert thermometer probe into breast or thigh
9. Cook another 1-2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F
10. Let bird sit 20-30 minutes before serving