- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup salt (kosher salt or sea salt works best)
- 1/4 cup sugar (brown sugar or granulated sugar)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon herbs (like thyme or rosemary, optional)
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional herbs and spices for seasoning (such as paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning)
How to Make the Tastiest Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
- In a large pot, combine the water, salt, sugar, crushed garlic, black peppercorns, and herbs (if using).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. You can also refrigerate the brine to speed up the cooling process.
Step 2: Brine the Chicken
- Once the brine is cool, place the chicken in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the brine over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid brining for too long, as it can lead to overly salty chicken.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven or Grill
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat your grill to high. This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy skin.
Step 4: Season and Cook
- Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs and spices you prefer.
- For oven roasting, place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet. For grilling, place the chicken directly on the grill grates.
- Cook for 25-35 minutes in the oven or 20-30 minutes on the grill, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier meat.
- Serve your beautifully cooked chicken with your favorite sides, and enjoy the compliments that will surely follow!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the brine with different herbs, spices, or citrus for added flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time, invest in a meat thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking is crucial for maintaining juiciness.
Conclusion
This tastiest chicken recipe, learned from a famous restaurant, is a game-changer for home cooks. The brining technique combined with high-heat cooking guarantees a dish that’s not only juicy and flavorful but also boasts crispy skin that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this chicken will impress your guests and become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, try this method, and savor the delicious results!
