Chicken Brine

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!

📝 Ingredients

• 2 quarts water (about 8 cups cold water)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 lemons (sliced)
• 5 sprigs parsley
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 3 sprigs rosemary
• 3 dried bay leaves
• 5 garlic cloves (smashed)
• 1/4 cup kosher salt or cooking salt
• 1 Tablespoon black peppercorns
• 3 - 4 lb chicken (whole)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Bring 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.
2. 2Add the chicken to the cooled brine and make sure the chicken is completely submerged.
3. 3Cover the pot and refrigerate for at least 3 - 4 hours, best for 8 - 24 hours.
4. 4Remove 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.