simple chicken brine recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple chicken brine recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my simple chicken brine recipe that has become a staple in our household. This recipe originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother, and it’s been passed down through generations. The key to this recipe is the brine solution, which is a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices that helps to preserve the chicken while adding flavor.

When I first started making this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to make and how delicious it turned out. My family loves it when I make this dish for dinner, and it’s also perfect for special occasions like holidays and parties. The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy, as the brine solution helps to retain moisture in the chicken, making it a great option for those looking for a low-fat meal.

Over the years, I’ve made some tweaks to the original recipe to make it even more delicious and convenient. One of the changes I made was to use a mixture of kosher salt and sea salt, which gives the chicken a more complex flavor profile. Another change I made was to add some fresh herbs like parsley and thyme to the brine solution, which adds a nice freshness to the dish.

Overall, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful way to cook chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want something quick and easy for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. And the best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it with a variety of sides or use it as a topping for salads or wraps.

My family loves when I make this dish for dinner, as it’s always a hit with them. The kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making the brine solution – they love getting their hands dirty and mixing all the ingredients together. As we sit down to enjoy our meal together as a family, I’m reminded of how much joy food can bring us.

It’s not just about sustenance; it’s about connection and love. This simple chicken brine recipe has become a staple in our household because of its ease of preparation and its delicious taste. It’s also incredibly healthy, making it an excellent option for those looking for a low-fat meal option.

Simple Chicken Brine

4.8 from 1580 votes

This easy brine keeps chicken moist and flavorful. It uses basic pantry ingredients to enhance any cut of chicken.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins plus 4-12 hours brining
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 10 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

4 cups cold water
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
2 bay leaves
1 lemon, sliced (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl or pot, combine 2 cups of water with the kosher salt and sugar.
2Whisk until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
3Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water, smashed garlic, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and lemon slices if using.
4Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
5Place your chicken pieces or whole chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or container.
6Pour the brine over the chicken, ensuring it is fully submerged.
7Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for 4 to 12 hours.
8For bone-in pieces, brine for at least 4 hours; for a whole chicken, brine for 8 to 12 hours.
9Remove the chicken from the brine and discard the liquid.
10Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess salt, then pat it dry with paper towels before cooking.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl or pot
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Large resealable plastic bag or container

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 10 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 7100mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

Do not brine longer than 12 hours or the chicken may become too salty. This brine works well for all cuts of chicken. Pat the chicken very dry before roasting or grilling to ensure crispy skin.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Brine Works

This simple chicken brine recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it guarantees juicy, flavorful meat without any complicated steps. I use it for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, and backyard barbecues, and it never lets me down.

The brine works with any cooking method, so you can roast, grill, or even fry the chicken and still get great results. For storage, you can keep brined raw chicken in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking, just make sure it is covered.

Leftover cooked chicken stays moist for several days in an airtight container. To reheat, I like to warm it in a low oven or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.

You can also slice the cold chicken and add it to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes for easy meals throughout the week. Serving the brined chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad makes a complete dinner that my whole family loves.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Brine

Q1: What is the purpose of using a brine solution in cooking chicken?

The primary function of using a brine solution in cooking chicken is to enhance its flavor and texture by infusing moisture into the meat.

Q2: How long should I soak my chicken in the brine solution?

The recommended soaking time for your chicken in the brine solution is between 2-24 hours.

Q3: Can I use other types of meat besides chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of meat such as pork or turkey instead of chicken.

Q4: Is it safe to consume raw eggs in this recipe?

No, you should not consume raw eggs; always ensure they are cooked properly before consumption.

Q5: What are some potential side effects of consuming too much salt from this recipe?

Eating excessive amounts of salt can lead to high blood pressure or other health complications; therefore consume moderately.

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