Description
Infuse ordinary chicken breasts with extraordinary flavor and juiciness by brining them in tangy dill pickle juice balanced with a hint of brown sugar, warming red pepper flakes, and savory salt & pepper. A simple 5-ingredient marinade transforms your weeknight protein into irresistibly tender, crave-worthy chicken every time.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts (The perfect blank canvas for our tangy, savory marinade.)
- 1 1/2 cups Dill pickle juice (The briny tangy, acidic star of the show that tenderizes the meat.)
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar (Just a touch for a hint of molasses-like sweetness to balance the brine.)
- 2 tsp Kosher salt (Essential for seasoning and creating a savory crust.)
- 1 tsp Black pepper (Freshly cracked to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (For a subtle warm heat that lingers on the palate.)
Instructions
Combine the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl (or large zip-top bag), whisk together the dill pickle juice, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Brine the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly.
- Cover (or seal the bag) and refrigerate for 1 hour (up to 4 hours for more pronounced flavor and tenderness).
Preheat & Prep to Cook:
- When ready to cook, remove chicken from brine and pat lightly dry with paper towels.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (or heat a skillet over medium).
Cook the Chicken:
- Brush the grill or skillet with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill or sear chicken breasts 5–6 minutes per side, until well-charred at the edges and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
Rest & Serve:
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides—salads, roasted veggies, or in sandwiches.
Notes
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Marinade Flexibility: You can reuse leftover pickle juice by topping it off with water—just adjust salt to taste.
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Spice Level: Increase red pepper flakes to ½ tsp for more heat, or omit for a milder profile.
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Cooking Methods: Oven-bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes if you don’t have a grill or skillet.
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Make-Ahead: Brine up to 4 hours ahead; cook just before serving.
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Serving Ideas: Slice and top a green salad, stuff into tacos, or serve alongside grilled corn and potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
