Delicious Mesquite Chicken Brine Recipe

Make the most flavorful and tender mesquite chicken with this easy and delicious brine recipe. The combination of aromatic spices and smoky mesquite flavors will have your taste buds begging for more. Brining the chicken ensures juiciness and guarantees a tasty result every time. Whether you're grilling, roasting, or frying, this mesquite chicken brine recipe will elevate any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken breasts
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon mesquite liquid smoke

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and mesquite liquid smoke.
2. Stir the brine mixture until the salt and sugar have dissolved completely.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the brine over them.
4. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the brine, discarding the brine.
7. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
8. If grilling, oil the grill grates and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. If roasting, place the chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
10. If frying, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

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