Sweet Tea Brined Chicken

Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography
Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 cups water

4 black tea bags

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup kosher salt

1 teaspoon pepper

Zest from one lemon

2 cups ice cubes

1 chicken, quartered

2 tablespoons all purpose seasoning 

Preparation

In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. 

Remove from heat and add the black tea

bags. Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes.

Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar, lemon zest, pepper and kosher salt until they dissolve completely. 

Add the ice cubes to the brine mixture and stir until they melt and cool down the mixture.

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.

Pour the sweet tea brine over the chicken, making sure it covers the chicken completely. 

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. 

Refrigerate the chicken in the brine for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.

When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.

Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry with paper towels. 

Season with all purpose seasoning.

Grill the chicken breasts for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. 

Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

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