How to Brine Chicken With Sea Salt
- 1). Fill a large pot or stockpot with half as much water as you need to cover the chicken. Bring to a low simmer over medium heat.
- 2). Remove the pot from heat. Add sea salt to the water and stir until well combined. Add 2 tbsp. sea salt for every 1 cup of water you use.
- 3). Add any sugars, herbs or spices that you enjoy. They are not necessary for the brining process, but can add flavor to the chicken.
- 4). Allow the water to cool slightly. Add ice equal to the amount of water that you used, plus a little extra to account for the extra volume in the ice. The ratio doesn't have to be exact, so don't worry if you add a little too much ice.
- 5). Submerge the chicken in brine. If there isn't enough brine to cover the chicken, add a solution of 1 tbsp. salt and 1 cup water until it is fully submerged.
- 6). Cover and refrigerate. Allow whole chickens to brine for 6 to 8 hours. Chicken pieces such as breasts, thighs and legs only require about 30 minutes to an hour to brine.
Source...