Buttermilk Brined Chicken Thighs 

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Looking for a way to add some excitement to your dinner table?

Jump to recipePin it
Buttermilk Brined Chicken Thighs 
Prep
5 hr 20 min
Cook
40 min
Total
5 hr 20 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the chicken, buttermilk, 2 sprigs of rosemary, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

  2. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

  3. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the ingredients together until the potatoes are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet and spread it out in a single layer. Keep the bowl for later use. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.

  4. In the same bowl, add the broccoli. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the broccoli, and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a little lemon zest. Toss to combine. Add the broccoli mixture to the baking sheet with the potatoes, and toss everything together. Return the baking sheet to the oven and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

  5. Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade one by one, lightly shaking off the excess butterm

About this recipe

Buttermilk Brined Chicken Thighs: A Delicious Twist to Classic Chicken

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Looking for a way to add some excitement to your dinner table? Look no further than buttermilk brined chicken thighs! This mouthwatering dish combines the juiciness and tenderness of chicken thighs with the tangy and creamy flavors of buttermilk. It's a match made in culinary heaven.

Why Buttermilk Brine?

Brining is a technique that involves soaking meat in a saltwater solution to enhance its flavor and moisture content. Buttermilk, with its slightly acidic nature, takes brining to a whole new level. The acidity of the buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a delightful tangy taste. The result? Chicken thighs that are incredibly juicy, flavorful, and succulent.

How Does Buttermilk Brine Work?

When you submerge chicken thighs in buttermilk, the acidic properties of the buttermilk break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in tender and moist meat. The buttermilk also imparts a subtle tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural richness of the chicken.

The Magic of Buttermilk

Buttermilk has long been a secret ingredient in the culinary world. Its creamy texture and tangy taste make it a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you're making pancakes, biscuits, or fried chicken, buttermilk adds a unique depth of flavor that simply can't be replicated.

Buttermilk Brined Chicken Thighs: The Recipe

Are you ready to transform your chicken thighs into a delectable masterpiece? Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  4. When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to the desired temperature.
  5. Remove the chicken thighs from the buttermilk brine and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  6. Grill or bake the chicken thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  8. Serve your buttermilk brined chicken thighs with your favorite sides and enjoy!

In Conclusion

Buttermilk brined chicken thighs are a game-changer when it comes to elevating your chicken dinner. The buttermilk adds tenderness, flavor, and a delightful tang that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk is the star of this recipe, so I highly recommend using it for the best results. However, if you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk.

How long should I marinate the chicken thighs?

For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 4 hours. However, if you have the time, overnight marination is even better.

Can I use this brine for other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! The buttermilk brine works wonders on other cuts of chicken too, such as breasts or drumsticks.

Can I freeze the buttermilk brined chicken thighs?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken thighs after brining them. Just make sure to pat them dry before freezing and thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I use the leftover buttermilk brine?

While it's not recommended to reuse the brine due to food safety concerns, you can repurpose it for other recipes. Try using it as a marinade for other meats or as a flavorful addition to your salad dressings or sauces.

Can I bake the buttermilk brined chicken thighs instead of grilling them?

Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative to grilling. Simply preheat your oven, place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet, and bake them until they reach the desired temperature.

What sides would go well with buttermilk brined chicken thighs?

The possibilities are endless! You can serve your chicken thighs with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Or get creative and try pairing them with cornbread, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More dinner

See all →