brining whole chicken recipe

brining whole chicken recipe

The Best brining whole chicken recipe

I’ve been making this brining whole chicken recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite among my family and friends. The process of brining a whole chicken is simple yet impressive, and the result is always tender and juicy.

I love how the brine helps to keep the meat moist, even after cooking. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, as it’s easy to make and can be served with a variety of sides.

My kids always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s just that good. The best part is that the brining process helps to reduce the sodium content of the chicken, making it a healthier option for our family.

I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains a staple in our household. It’s a great way to add some excitement to our mealtime routine and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well.

Brined Whole Roast Chicken

Brined Whole Roast Chicken

4.9 from 986 votes

A juicy and flavorful whole chicken brined in a salt and herb solution then roasted until golden brown. The brine ensures moist meat and crispy skin.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time14 hours 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

4 quarts cold water
1/2 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 lemon, halved

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, quartered
4 cloves garlic, halved
4 sprigs fresh thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large stockpot, combine 4 quarts cold water, kosher salt, brown sugar, smashed garlic, peppercorns, rosemary, thyme, and lemon halves.
2Stir until salt and sugar dissolve completely.
3Submerge the whole chicken in the brine, ensuring it is fully covered.
4Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 14 hours, or overnight.
5Preheat your oven to 425°F.
6Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels.
7Discard the brine.
8Rub the chicken all over with olive oil and season with black pepper.
9Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters, halved garlic, and fresh thyme sprigs.
10Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
11Roast for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F.
12Continue roasting for about 1 hour more, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.
13The skin should be deep golden brown and crispy.
14Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes before carving.
15This allows the juices to redistribute.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot or brining container
Roasting pan with rack
Instant-read thermometer
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 130mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

For extra crispy skin, let the chicken air-dry in the refrigerator uncovered for 2 hours after brining and before roasting. You can also add other aromatics like bay leaves or star anise to the brine.

Watch Video Of How Brined Whole Roast Chicken Works

Brining a whole chicken is a simple step that makes a huge difference in the final dish. The meat stays juicy and flavorful and the skin gets beautifully crispy.

I always turn to this recipe when I want a reliable roast chicken that impresses everyone at the table. After the meal store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat place the chicken in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also shred the meat and use it in soups salads or sandwiches.

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion and it works perfectly for family gatherings because it is easy to make and everyone loves it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brined Whole Roast Chicken

What is brining, and why do I need to do it?

Brining involves soaking the chicken in a solution of water, salt, and sometimes sugar before cooking it. This process helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

Can I use a store-bought brine mix instead of making my own?

While you can use a store-bought mix, I highly recommend making your own brine from scratch using kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, and other aromatics. It’s worth the extra effort for the flavor and texture you’ll get.

How long does the chicken need to soak in the brine?

The longer you can soak the chicken in the brine, the better it will be. Aim for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal results.

Can I use this recipe for smaller or larger chickens?

Yes, you can adjust the recipe according to your needs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size of your bird.

What temperature should I cook my chicken at?

You want to cook your chicken at 325°F (165°C) for even cooking and browning.

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