Skip to main content

Master Buttermilk Brine

Image may contain Food Dessert Yogurt Creme Cream and Ice Cream
Matt Duckor

This recipe makes enough brine for one 3½–4-pound chicken or 4 pounds of chicken pieces.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 1 quart

Ingredients

1 quart buttermilk
4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Whole chicken and/or chicken pieces

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken and chill at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before using.

  2. Curry

    Step 2

    Add 4 teaspoons curry powder, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 2 teaspoons ground turmeric.

  3. Chipotle

    Step 3

    Add 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotle chiles in adobo.

  4. Louisiana-Style

    Step 4

    Add 2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons Tabasco, and 2 teaspoons celery seeds.

  5. Lemon-Dill

    Step 5

    Add 2 thinly sliced lemons, 4 finely grated garlic cloves, and 2 cups chopped fresh dill.

Read More
Sticky-sweet mall-style bourbon chicken gets a fall makeover.
A sheet-pan wonder with lots of crispy rice.
The Thanksgiving staple makes for a stellar weeknight dinner.
Enchiladas meet pumpkin in this cozy weeknight dinner.
A fam-favorite, 30-minute dinner we have on repeat.
A fancy-feeling dish that comes together in 20 minutes.
This skillet dinner is a delightful way to use up a jug of cider.
Known as okayu, this Japanese comfort food will warm you from the inside out.