Chicken brine

Chicken Brine Recipe – A Classic and Flavorful Delicacy

Chicken brine is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and colors, that brings to the table not only a delicious dish but also a family story. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a party with friends. The chicken, marinated in aromatic brine, becomes juicy and full of flavor, and the final dish is sure to impress everyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spices (thyme, sweet paprika) to preference

For the brine:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 5-6 fresh or frozen tomatoes
- 1-2 bell peppers (red or green) or sweet pepper
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for those who prefer a spicy taste)
- Salt, pepper, thyme to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- A few slices of celery

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any leftover feathers or internal organs.
2. Cut the chicken in half, through the middle of the breast, keeping the back intact. This method helps with even cooking.
3. Place the chicken in a large pot with cold water and add a pinch of salt. This will help extract flavors from the meat.

Step 2: Boiling the Chicken

1. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, skim off the foam from the surface with a ladle.
2. Add the halved onion, peeled carrot, celery, and a slice of bell pepper. Let it simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked, about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Brine

1. In a saucepan, add the sliced tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and chopped hot pepper (if using). Add 2-3 cups of water and let it boil until the tomatoes and pepper soften, about 15-20 minutes.
2. After boiling, add the crushed garlic, dill, and finely chopped parsley. Adjust with salt and pepper and let it boil for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Browning the Chicken

1. Remove the boiled chicken from the water and let it cool slightly. Brush it with olive oil on both sides and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the grill or griddle. Grease it with a little butter for a richer taste.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Assembling the Dish

1. Place the browned chicken in a serving dish.
2. Pour the hot brine over the chicken so it absorbs the delicious flavors.
3. Serve with warm polenta and, optionally, a fresh summer salad.

Practical Tip

To achieve an even juicier chicken, you can marinate it in oil and spices a few hours before cooking. Also, to intensify the flavors in the brine, you can add a few bay leaves or even some peppercorns.

Possible Variations

You can adapt this recipe according to your preferences. For example, if you like a spicier taste, you can add more hot pepper or even some hot paprika. Also, instead of polenta, you can opt for a side of rice or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Information

This chicken brine recipe is a good source of protein due to the chicken meat. Tomatoes and vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals, and garlic is known for its benefits to the immune system. A serving of cooked chicken contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is completely thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.
2. Can I replace fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes are a good alternative, but make sure to choose varieties without additives or added sugars.
3. What other recipes can I make with the leftover meat broth? The meat broth can be used as a base for a delicious soup or to prepare a flavorful pilaf. Add rice, vegetables, and spices for a tasty dish.

Chicken brine is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors and traditions that this popular dish brings!

 Ingredients: Ex. a grilled chicken For the brine: 2 heads of garlic 5-6 fresh or frozen tomatoes 1-2 pieces of bell pepper, capia or fresh or frozen gogoșar hot pepper to taste salt, pepper, thyme to taste dill, parsley to taste 1-2 tablespoons of oil For flavor, boil together with the chicken: 1 onion 1 carrot several slices of celery