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Brined Chicken

A simple chicken brine recipe that guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brine Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup Kosher salt Works best but table salt can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar Optional, for slightly golden color and flavor.
  • 4 cups Cold water You can dissolve in a bit of hot water first.
Optional Flavorings
  • Garlic, peppercorns, or bay leaf Use as desired for extra flavor.
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary Optional, adds great flavor.

Method
 

Brine Preparation
  1. Dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt and 2 tablespoons sugar in 4 cups of cold water.
  2. If desired, use hot water to dissolve, then add cold water.
  3. Allow brine mixture to cool completely.
Brining the Chicken
  1. Place chicken pieces into a large bowl or zip-top bag.
  2. Pour the cooled brine over the chicken, ensuring it is completely submerged.
  3. Refrigerate: Small pieces (like breasts/thighs) for 30 minutes to 2 hours, whole chickens for 4 hours to overnight.
  4. After brining, rinse chicken under cool water and pat dry with paper towels.

Notes

Brined chicken can be grilled, baked, or used in various dishes. Be careful not to over-brine, as it may become mushy. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.