Description
A succulent roast chicken brined in apple cider, bringing together sweet and savory flavors for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds)
- 2 cups apple cider (fresh is best)
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 tablespoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Seasonal vegetables for roasting (carrots, potatoes, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, combine apple cider, kosher salt, brown sugar, crushed garlic, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary, and the quartered onion. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Allow to cool to room temperature.
- Brine the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large container or resealable bag and pour the cooled brine over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the brine, pat dry, rub with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast: Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Notes
Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect cooking. Let the chicken rest after roasting for better juiciness.
- Prep Time: 240 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Cider Brined Roast Chicken, Roast Chicken, Family Dinner, Comfort Food