Are you ready to elevate your chicken game to a whole new level? Introducing the Brined Herb Chicken Breasts—a dish that promises juicy, flavorful bites that will have your taste buds dancing! Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly seasoned chicken, infused with the aromatic essence of thyme and rosemary, all thanks to a simple brining technique. This recipe not only enhances the flavor but also ensures your chicken stays moist and tender, making it a surefire hit at your dinner table. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this American classic that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious!
Prep Time: 8 hrs
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 8 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp rosemary, chopped
- Water
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, sugar, chopped thyme, and chopped rosemary. Add 4 cups of cold water and whisk until salt and sugar completely dissolve, creating a brine solution.
- Place chicken breasts in a large, non-reactive container or sealed plastic bag. Pour the prepared brine over the chicken, ensuring they are completely submerged. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- After brining, remove chicken breasts from the brine and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Discard the used brine solution.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Allow chicken to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, creating a nice exterior crust.
- Transfer the skillet with chicken breasts into the preheated oven and roast for 15-18 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice chicken against the grain and serve with your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Brining is Key: Allow your chicken to soak in the brine for at least 8 hours, or even overnight, for maximum flavor and moisture. The longer, the better!
- Pat Dry: After brining, make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust when searing.
- Room Temperature: Let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Resting Time: Don't skip the resting period after cooking! Letting the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.
- Experiment with Sides: This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 165kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 75mg
