Cooking in the oven is the simplest method. To cook the bird on the grill, use Steven Raichlen's instructions below. Serve with lots of mashed potatoes and a spicy gravy made from a combination of half drippings and half chicken stock.

1 medium whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds)
2 1/2 tablespoons Memphis Rub (recipe follows) or your own rub
1 can (12 ounces) beer at room temperature
Rinse chicken inside and out, drain and pat dry.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the rub inside the neck and body cavity, then rub
another 1 tablespoon all over the skin of the bird.

Pop the tab on the beer can. Using a "church key"-style can opener, make 6 or 7 holes in the top of the can. Drink or pour out the top inch of beer, then spoon the remaining dry rub through the holes into the beer.

Holding the chicken upright, push the chicken down onto the beer can so that the can goes into the cavity.

Stand the "stuffed" chicken on a roasting pan. The bottom of the beer can and the two legs form a triangular support. If the chicken is too big and the beer can unstable, buttress the legs with skewers. No trussing or further basting is necessary.

To roast in the oven:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Roast about 2 hours until the skin is crisp and the juices run clear when the bird is poked with the tip of a knife. Allow the finished bird to rest before carving. Memphis Rub

2 tablespoons paprika (Spanish pimenton is excellent)
1 1/2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Combine all ingredients in a small jar, twist the lid on airtight, and shake to mix. May be stored away from heat and light for up to 6 months. Makes about 1/4 cup, enough for two racks of ribs or two chickens.