Grill the Best Beer Can Chicken with Jasper Ale
It still feels like summer here in Edmonton — 25°C in September — but we’re right on the cusp of fall. Beer can chicken is one of those recipes that works beautifully in both seasons. On a hot day, it’s the ultimate backyard barbecue showstopper. On a cool evening, it’s comfort food with just the right touch of smoky-crisp skin and juicy meat.
The beer you choose makes all the difference, and for this one I’m going with Jasper the Bear Ale from Jasper Brewing Co. Named after Jasper’s town mascot, this blonde ale is brewed with Mt. Hood hops, a touch of coriander, and a hint of honey. Light and refreshing, it pairs just as well with a slice of lime as it does with roast chicken on the grill.
Where a darker ale would add caramel and malt, Jasper the Bear brings brightness. As the beer steams inside the chicken, those subtle citrus and spice notes come through, balancing beautifully with a simple rub of smoked paprika, garlic, and herbs. The result? A chicken that’s crisp, juicy, and full of flavour — without feeling heavy.
This is a recipe that works whether you’re squeezing in one last summer cookout or leaning into cozy fall dinners. Crack open a Jasper the Bear, pour yourself half, and let the other half do its work inside the bird. Serve with roasted potatoes, French fries, a simple green salad, bean and corn salad, or your favourite side.
The Brewery
Jasper Brewing Co. opened in 2005 as Canada’s first National Park brewery, right in the heart of Jasper, Alberta. They brew approachable beers that capture the spirit of the Rockies — crisp, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with mountain adventures or backyard grilling. If you’ve ever had a pint in their brewpub after a day on the trails, you know how well their beers hit the spot.
The Beer
Appearance: Pale golden blonde with a slight haze and a foamy white head.
Smell: Light citrus, a touch of honey, and subtle spice from coriander.
Taste: Crisp and refreshing with soft malt sweetness, hints of lime zest, and a gentle herbal finish.
Mouthfeel: Light-bodied and smooth with lively carbonation.
Overall: An easy-drinking blonde ale with just enough character to keep it interesting — the perfect match for grilled chicken and late-summer evenings.
The Recipe
Beer Can Chicken with Jasper the Bear Ale
Juicy, crispy, and infused with the bright, citrusy notes of Jasper the Bear Ale, this beer can chicken is a perfect recipe for late summer grilling or cozy fall dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4–5 lbs, giblets and neck removed
- 1 can Jasper the Bear Ale or another crisp blonde ale
- 2 tsp smoked salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- Zest of 1 lime optional, to echo the ale’s citrusy finish
- 1 Tbsp neutral oil canola or avocado
Instructions
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Pat chicken dry with paper towels. For extra crispy skin, refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour.
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Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and lime zest.
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Rub the chicken lightly with oil, then season generously with the spice mix, getting under the skin where possible.
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Open the beer and pour out (or sip) half. Drop a pinch of the spice mix and a slice of lime into the can.
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Place the can in a chicken stand/holder, then carefully lower the chicken over the can so it sits upright.
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Preheat grill to medium (around 375°F) with indirect heat.
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Grill for 1–1 ¼ hours, or until breast reaches 165°F and thighs 180°F.
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Remove chicken from the grill, tent with foil, and rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Recipe Notes
Serve with roasted potatoes, French fries, a simple green salad, bean and corn salad, or grilled corn — and, of course, a cold Jasper the Bear Ale with a slice of lime.
One thought on “Grill the Best Beer Can Chicken with Jasper Ale”
Wow!! This looks so delicious. I think it is the beer that made it more tasty and delicious. I am going to try this out. Thank you for sharing the steps and ingredients. 🙂 Great post!!
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