Simple Chicken Brine Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 gallon water
- ½ cup kosher salt
- ¼ cup sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Optional: fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) or lemon slices
Instructions
Prepare the Brine
- In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
- Add the garlic, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and any optional herbs or lemon slices for extra flavor.
Submerge the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large container or resealable bag.
- Pour the brine over the chicken, making sure it’s fully submerged. If needed, weigh the chicken down with a plate to keep it under the liquid.
Refrigerate
- Cover the container or seal the bag, and refrigerate for the recommended time based on the size of the chicken.
Rinse and Cook
- After brining, remove the chicken from the brine and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cook as desired—whether grilling, roasting, or frying.
Notes
Brine Time
- 4-6 hours (for chicken pieces)
- 12-24 hours (for a whole chicken)