Chicken in brine

Chicken in brine – A simple and delicious recipe

Are you looking for a recipe that is not only quick but also incredibly tasty? I propose a recipe for chicken in brine, perfect for hot days when we crave something more substantial, but want to keep the dish light and full of flavor. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with taste, making it ideal for satisfying the whole family's appetite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history
Brining is a food preservation technique that has been used since ancient times. This method involves using salty water, often with various flavors, to enhance the taste and preserve the freshness of the meat. In addition to providing a unique flavor, brining adds moisture to the meat, making it juicy and delicious.

Ingredients needed
- 500 g chicken (breast or thighs, as preferred)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 bunch of dill (salted or fresh)
- 50 ml white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water

Step by step – Your guide to perfect chicken in brine

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the chicken into appropriate pieces. Make sure each piece is well washed and dried with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving an even fry.

2. Heating the pan
Take a steel pan or a grill and place it over high heat. Add the oil and let it heat for 3-4 minutes. It is important for the oil to be well heated to achieve a crispy crust on the meat.

3. Frying the meat
Carefully arrange the pieces of meat in the pan. Make sure not to overlap them, to allow for even frying. Fry them on each side for 3-4 minutes over medium heat. When you turn the meat, add salt and pepper to taste.

4. Adding the flavors
After you have turned the pieces of meat, add 50 ml of water in which you have crushed a clove of garlic. This will enhance the flavor of the dish. Also, add a tablespoon of vinegar for an extra taste. Put the lid on the pan and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes.

5. Preparing the brine
Meanwhile, grate the tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add the remaining garlic (crushed or finely chopped), a teaspoon of white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Add the finely chopped dill and mix all the ingredients well.

6. Finalizing the dish
Pour the brine mixture over the fried meat in the pan. Put the lid on and turn off the heat. Let the dish sit for 10 minutes so that the flavors can combine and the meat can marinate.

7. Serving
Once the resting time has passed, it’s time to enjoy the dish. Serve the chicken in brine alongside warm polenta or fresh bread. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but will also add comfort to your meal.

Useful tips
- Choose quality meat: The quality of the meat significantly influences the final taste. Choose fresh chicken, preferably from a trusted source.
- Vary the flavors: You can also add other spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Enrich the side dish: Instead of polenta, you can opt for a fresh vegetable salad or mashed potatoes, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meat.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as turkey or pork. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to check the degree of doneness.

2. How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftover meat, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or in a pan.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Depending on the portions and the ingredients used, this recipe can be part of a balanced diet. Chicken is a good source of protein, and tomatoes and dill provide vitamins and antioxidants.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices that will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meat. Additionally, a cold mint tea can add a refreshing note.

I hope this recipe for chicken in brine will delight you and bring you culinary satisfaction. Don’t forget to experiment and adapt the recipe to your tastes! Enjoy your meal!