Brine Recipes for Credo Farms Chicken

Basic Brine Recipe for All Chicken Parts

This simple and easy brine recipe works for all Credo Farms whole chickens and parts like breasts, tenders, wings, and legs, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

• 1 gallon of water
• 1 cup of kosher salt
• 1/2 cup of sugar (optional)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves) (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir until fully dissolved.
2. Add garlic, herbs, and peppercorns if desired.
3. Submerge the chicken in the brine, ensuring it's fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for the appropriate time based on the chicken part (see details below).
5. Rinse chicken thoroughly under cold water before cooking. Pat dry.

Brine Time for Different Chicken Parts

For pasture-raised chicken from Credo Farms, it's important to brine for the correct amount of time depending on the cut. Here’s a guide:

• Chicken Breasts: Brine for 3-4 hours for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
• Whole Chicken (cut into parts): Brine for 4 hours for the largest pieces, such as legs and thighs.
• Tenders: Only brine for 1-2 hours, as they are smaller and brine quickly.
• Wings: Brine for 2 hours for a balance of flavor and tenderness.

Brine Recipe for a 4-Pound Whole Chicken

This recipe is ideal for brining a 4-pound whole chicken from Credo Farms, cut into parts for enhanced flavor and juiciness.

• 2 quarts (8 cups) of water
• 1/2 cup of kosher salt
• 1/4 cup of sugar (optional)
• 3 cloves of garlic, smashed (optional)
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh herbs (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine water, salt, and sugar in a pot. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add garlic, herbs, and peppercorns for additional flavor.
3. Submerge chicken parts in the brine. Ensure full coverage.
4. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours depending on the part (refer to the brining guide above).
5. Rinse and dry chicken thoroughly before cooking.

Flavor Profile of the Brine

The brine adds a well-balanced saltiness, keeping the chicken moist and enhancing its natural flavors. Additional aromatics like garlic, herbs, or peppercorns provide subtle, layered flavors that enhance the pasture-raised quality of Credo Farms chicken.