Get the most flavorful whole chicken that is so tender and juicy with this effortless method. This simple chicken brine guarantees perfect results every time, and every bite is truly delicious!
Bring 1 cup of water, salt, peppercorns, honey, garlic in a large pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and cook for 3 minutes until salt has dissolved. Turn off the heat, add remaining water and several ice cubes to cool the water completely.
Add the chicken to the cooled brine and make sure the chicken is completely submerged.
Cover the pot and refrigerate for at least 3 - 4 hours, best for 8 - 24 hours.
Remove chicken from the brine and rinse with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels. You can proceed with roasting the chicken in the oven, cooking it in the Instant Pot or smoking it in the smoker.
NOTES
Let the chicken sit in the brine in the fridge with a lid on or covered with plastic wrap or foil.
Do not reuse brine. Discard it once you remove the chicken.
Before cooking your chicken, let it come up to room temperature. This will help it to keep it nice and tender.
Let the chicken rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
NUTRITION
Nutrition Facts
Chicken Brine
Amount Per Serving
Calories 609Calories from Fat 342
% Daily Value*
Fat 38g58%
Saturated Fat 11g55%
Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 191mg64%
Sodium 4912mg205%
Potassium 579mg17%
Carbohydrates 17g6%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 13g14%
Protein 48g96%
Vitamin A 471IU9%
Vitamin C 26mg32%
Calcium 67mg7%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword brined whole chicken, how to brine a chicken, how to make chicken brine