simple brine chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple brine chicken recipe
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The Best simple brine chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple brine chicken recipe with you all. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I make it at least once a week. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

My family loves it when I serve it with roasted vegetables or a side salad. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special events. I’ve experimented with different seasonings and spices over the years, but the basic brine recipe remains the same.

It’s a classic for a reason! The combination of salt, sugar, and herbs creates a flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet. My kids love helping me prepare the brine, and they always get excited when they see the chicken emerge from the marinade looking juicy and flavorful.

We often have leftovers, which is never a problem since everyone loves it so much. This recipe has become a go-to for potlucks, picnics, and even just a quick weeknight dinner. I’ve served it to friends and family countless times, and it never fails to impress.

The key to this recipe is letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour – it makes all the difference in the world. If you’re short on time, you can even use store-bought chicken broth instead of making your own from scratch.

Simple Brine Chicken

Simple Brine Chicken

4.7 from 1052 votes

This recipe produces juicy, flavorful chicken using a basic saltwater brine. The brine helps the meat retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a tender and delicious main dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time50 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

4 cups water
1/4 cup kosher salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 bay leaf

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine 4 cups water, 1/4 cup kosher salt, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 smashed garlic cloves, and 1 bay leaf.
2Whisk until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved, about 1 minute.
3Submerge the 4 chicken thighs completely in the brine.
4Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
5Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
6Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
7Discard the brine.
8Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up.
9Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
10Roast the chicken for 40 to 50 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F when tested with a meat thermometer.
11Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl or container
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a crispier skin, pat the chicken very dry before roasting. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the brine for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Simple Brine Chicken Works

This simple brine chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it is a busy weeknight or a family gathering. The brine keeps the chicken moist and flavorful without much effort.

I love that I can prep it ahead and have a reliable meal that everyone enjoys. For leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat, wrap pieces in foil and warm in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes. You can also slice it cold for salads or sandwiches.

For serving, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I think it will be in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brine Chicken

1. What is brine?

Brine is a mixture of water, salt, and sometimes sugar that helps preserve food by drawing out moisture. In this case, we’re using brine as a marinade for our chicken.

2. Why do you need to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour?

Letting the chicken marinate allows the flavors from the brine to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

3. Can I use this recipe for other types of meat?

While this recipe was specifically designed for chicken, you can experiment with other proteins like pork or turkey if you’d like.

4. How do I store leftover chicken after cooking?

To store leftover chicken safely, make sure it’s cooled completely within two hours of cooking then refrigerate or freeze it promptly.

5. Can I reheat cooked chicken in a microwave?

While microwaves are convenient for reheating food quickly, they can also cause uneven heating which may lead to food safety issues.

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