Apple Cider Brined Chicken
- Difficulty: Simple
- Serves: 6 to 8 people
- Nutrient Breakdown Per Serving
Serving size: 1 of 8
Calories: 1890
Total Fat: 158 g
Saturated Fat: 20 g
Carbs: 52 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 3 g
Protein: 62 g
Cholesterol: 225 mg
Sodium: 1323 mg - Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Brining: 3 hours (inactive)
- Cooking: 20 minutes
Transform your weeknight dinner into a crispy, flavorful masterpiece with this Apple Cider Brined Chicken. The tangy apple cider brine infuses every bite with juicy tenderness and subtle sweetness, leading to golden, irresistible fried pieces that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt, separated
- 3 tablespoons black pepper, separated
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup apple juice
- 2 medium whole chickens, each cut into 8 pieces
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable oil
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- Dive into brining magic: In a large 2-gallon container, whisk together 2 tablespoons salt, 2 tablespoons pepper, 4 cups water, apple cider vinegar, and apple juice. Submerge the chicken pieces and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to 3 hours, letting the flavors deeply penetrate for ultimate juiciness.
- Prep for crunch: Stir the remaining 1 tablespoon salt and 1 tablespoon pepper into the flour until evenly mixed. Set this dredging station asideyour ticket to that perfect crispy coat.
- Fry to perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron pan over high heat to 350F. Lift chicken from the brine, pat completely dry with paper towels, then dredge each piece in seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Fry in batches, 8-9 minutes per side until gorgeously golden. Ensure it hits 165F internally for safe, succulent results. Serve hot and watch the table light up!
