Description

This simple chicken brine recipe ensures a spectacularly juicy roast every time, transforming everyday poultry into a standout dish. Brining infuses moisture and flavor deep into the meat, ensuring a truly succulent and family-friendly result.

Ingredients

1 gallon water
0.5 cup kosher salt (or 0.25 cup regular table salt)
0.25 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
6 cloves garlic, smashed
4 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 Tbsp dried)
4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 Tbsp dried)
1 Tbsp black peppercorns

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Instructions

Combine Brine Ingredients: In a large stockpot, dissolve salt and sugar in 1 gallon hot water until clear. Add remaining aromatics and cool completely for 30-45 minutes, ensuring it is room temperature. (If the brine is still warm, it can partially cook the chicken.)
Prepare Whole Chicken: Remove giblets from your whole chicken (3-5 lbs), then pat it very dry with paper towels until the skin feels clean. Submerge the chicken fully in the cooled brine within a large food-safe container.
Begin Brining Process: Refrigerate the chicken submerged in brine for 4-8 hours for a 3-4 lb bird, or 8-12 hours for up to 5 lbs. The chicken should feel slightly firmer after brining.
Rinse And Pat Dry: Remove chicken from brine, rinse well under cold water for 1 minute to remove excess salt. Pat the bird very dry with paper towels; this is crucial for crispy, golden-brown skin during roasting.
Roast Until Done: Season chicken externally. Roast at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and roast until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), about 60-90 minutes. Juices should run clear.

Notes

Cool brine completely before adding chicken. Do not skip rinsing and drying the chicken after brining for crispy skin and balanced saltiness. Avoid over-brining, which can lead to overly salty or mushy meat. For healthier options, use low-sodium broth, omit sugar, or add extra fresh herbs for boosted flavor.

Prep Time: 65 minutes
Cook Time: 85 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 170 g)
Calories: 380 calories
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg