Perfect Chicken Brine
Perfect Chicken Brine balances salt, a touch of sugar, and aromatic herbs to deeply season poultry and lock in juiciness. Garlic, sage, basil, peppercorns, and bay leaf lend a fragrant, savory backbone that shines after roasting or grilling. Ideal for whole birds or bone-in pieces, it’s a dependable prep step before any weekend cookout or holiday dinner.
- Prep15 mins
- Cook30 mins
- Serves16
- DifficultyEasy
- 1
In a large pot over medium-high heat, bring the water, kosher salt, sugar, sage, basil, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf to a simmer; cook, stirring occasionally, until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved, about 20 minutes.
- 2
Remove from the heat; cover and let it steep for 20 to 30 minutes.
- 3
Place the pot in an ice bath and stir from time to time until the brine reaches room temperature, 20 to 30 minutes.
- 4
Refrigerate until completely chilled before using, at least 1 hour.
- Calories 261.34 kcal Moderate
- Protein 7.24 g Moderate
- Carbs 29.81 g Moderate
- Total Fat 13.01 g Moderate
- Saturated Fat 2.19 g Moderate
- Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Cholesterol 0.0 mg Low Source
- Sodium 146.88 mg Moderate
- Fiber 7.51 g Good Source
- Sugar 19.29 g High
- Added Sugar 9.95 g Moderate
- Calcium 49.28 mg Low Source
- Iron 2.1 mg Moderate
- Potassium 188.14 mg Low Source
- Vitamin A 26.77 mcg_rae Low Source
- Vitamin C 0.6 mg Low Source
- Vitamin D 0.0 mcg Low Source
Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Garlic 🧄