There’s nothing worse than cutting into a dry, flavorless pork chop or a rubbery chicken breast. Luckily, there’s an easy fix to ensure that lean meats don’t dry out as they cook: brine.
Meats like poultry, shrimp and pork are notoriously easy to overcook because they don’t have much fat and marbling to protect them. Infusing that meat with salt works food-science magic, increasing the amount of moisture inside and amping up the flavor. Brining builds in a lot of forgiveness in case you accidentally overcook things, all but guaranteeing you won’t end up with a chewy piece of dry meat!
What Is Brining?
Brining is the process of submerging a cut of meat into a solution of salt and water. Brines not only add flavor to your food, seasoning it with salt from the inside out, but they also infuse the meat with extra liquid. That protects your poultry, pork, or seafood as it cooks, and using one is our go-to secret for getting super tender meat every time you grill.
You’ll hear a lot about brines around Thanksgiving time, but brining is an excellent strategy for keeping all kinds of meats juicy and moist. It’s not necessary to brine red meats (like beef or lamb) or fattier cuts of meat (like chicken thighs or pork shoulder), although it certainly doesn’t hurt.
How Does a Brine Work?
Brines change the physical nature of your meat, infusing them with extra moisture. The salt in the brine tenderizes tough muscle fibers. It also allows the cells to retain more moisture, trapping so much liquid inside that it can’t all evaporate during the cooking process. It all comes together to create a moister, juicier piece of meat. Isn’t science great?
(Check out our guide to all kinds of salt.)
Can You Over-Brine?
It’s definitely possible to over-brine your meat. If you really let it go too long—as in, brining for days instead of hours—it may be beyond repair. Doing so can make your meat mushy, and there’s no way to fix that! But most over-brining simply makes everything a little too salty. Soaking the meat in cold water can draw out that excess salt.
You may not need to brine for as long as you think—thin fish fillets only take 10 minutes, and seafood like shrimp is done after 15 to 30 minutes. Thinner cuts of pork or poultry work well at around the 30-minute mark, although you can brine larger cuts like whole chickens or pork tenderloins for 12 hours (or, overnight). Very large turkeys can sit as long as 48 hours.
How Do You Make a Brine Solution?
You have two options when it comes to brine, but we’re going to talk about the traditional brine first: a wet brine. All you need is water, salt, and a little time—that’s it; you barely even need a recipe! I like using one tablespoon of kosher salt for every cup of water. For most meats, 4 cups of water (and, 1/4 cup of salt) will be sufficient to cover the meat completely. Beware: Some kosher salts are saltier than others.
You’ll find some brine recipes that call for additional ingredients, from sugar and honey to herbs and other aromatics like onion and garlic. While these additions do make the brine smell good and add flavor to the outside of the meat, they don’t penetrate the meat. Since they don’t add to the overall juiciness of the meat, they’re entirely optional. I prefer to use these ingredients post-brine, as a spice rub, a compound butter or sauce that tops the meat.
What About a Dry Brine?
Dry brines work in the same way as wet brines but they don’t use any water at all. By rubbing your meat with pure salt, you won’t add any excess moisture that could dilute the meat’s natural flavors. Instead, the salt infuses with the meat’s juices, creating super-concentrated flavors. Try this salted pork to see what I mean.
This method has become especially popular for Thanksgiving turkeys because it’s physically easier to do. You don’t have to worry about finding a container large enough to hold all that brining liquid!
You might be surprised to learn how little salt you need for this method, too: For each pound of meat, you only need 1-1/2 teaspoons of salt (or, a tablespoon for every two pounds). Rub the salt into the meat until it’s covered (but not caked on) and let it sit, uncovered, in the refrigerator for the same amount of time as a wet brine.
How Do You Brine a Chicken?
Brining is an easy cheat for creating the juiciest chicken on the block!
What You’ll Need:
- 4 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of salt
- Your favorite cut of chicken
Step 1: Mix the Brine
In a large container, mix together the water and salt. Stir with a whisk until the salt has completely dissolved into the water.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Carefully lower the chicken into the brine, taking care not to splash water everywhere. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes for breasts and as long as 12 hours (or overnight) for a whole chicken.
Test Kitchen Tip: If you’re brining a whole chicken, you may need to double the brine recipe to make sure the meat is fully submerged into the water. You can weigh it down with a small bowl or piece of parchment paper, if necessary.
Step 3: Dry and Cook
Once the chicken is sufficiently brined, remove it from the liquid and pat it dry with a paper towel. You want the surface to be as dry as possible to get a good sear. Since the chicken absorbs salt from the brine, there’s no need to add additional salt, but you can rub the chicken with oil and dried spices if you like. Then, follow your favorite roasting, grilling or skillet recipe!
Try out your new brining skills by cooking up one of our most popular boneless skinless chicken breast recipes.
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Chicken Burrito Skillet
We love Mexican night at our house, and I love to re-create dishes from our favorite restaurants. This burrito-inspired dish is ready for the table in almost no time! —Krista Marshall, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Cranberry Maple Chicken
Cranberries and a hint of maple syrup make a sweet sauce for these easy chicken breast halves. They’re a quick but lovely main course for weeknights and other occasions. —Kim Pettipas, Oromocto, New Brunswick
Here are the 7 biggest mistakes people make with chicken (and how to fix them).
Mongolian Chicken
This is a different, fun way to make chicken. It has a lot of flavor and a bit of heat for good measure. —Mary Ann Lee, Clifton Park, New York
Love grilled chicken? Here's our Test Kitchen's secret to keeping it nice and juicy.
Sheet-Pan Chicken Parmesan
Saucy chicken, melty mozzarella and crisp-tender broccoli, all in one pan. What could be better? —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Get more easy sheet pan dinners here.
Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
One of my favorite slow cooker recipes is this impressive buffalo chicken egg rolls appetizer. You can wrap the filling in egg roll wraps and bake, or, for a bite-size version, use smaller won ton wraps. —Tara Odegaard, Omaha, Nebraska
Find dozens of new spins on your takeout favorites here.
Tropical Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowls
This tropical favorite is a delicious and healthy dinner with tons of flavor! You can substitute regular rice for the cauliflower rice if desired. —Bethany DiCarlo, Harleysville, Pennsylvania
Try these other healthy dinners in a bowl.
Southwest Chicken Dinner
My family loves to order those gigantic takeout Tex-Mex burritos, but they can be expensive and we always have leftovers. I created a lighter, no-guilt alternative with the flavors they love, and that skips the tortilla. —Marquisha Turner, Aurora, Colorado
Chicken and Broccoli with Dill Sauce
I've had this chicken and broccoli recipe for so many years, I don't remember when I first made it. Serve it with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal, or add some sliced mushrooms or carrots for extra veggies. —Kallee Krong-Mccreery, Escondido, California
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
When the Packers play the Bears, I always plan a party and make sure this is on the menu. Using the slow cooker means I can get to watch the game, too! I serve the chicken on submarine rolls with a bit of the sauce and some chopped lettuce. Or cut the chicken breasts in half and make sliders. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Slow Cooker Pad Thai
I love pad Thai, but I hate standing over a hot stir-fry—especially in the summer. This slow cooker version lets me keep my cool and enjoy pad Thai, too. —Shawn Barto, Winter Garden, Florida
Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
My family adores this chicken recipe. The coating keeps the chicken nice and moist, and with the taste enhanced by marinating, the result is delicious. —Stephanie Otten, Byron Center, Michigan
Lemon Cream Chicken
If you want an entree that's quick, easy and elegant, you can't beat this one. The lemon cream sauce is what makes it irresistible. It goes so nicely with the chicken and mushrooms. —Mary Anne McWhirter, Pearland, Texas
Are you making these mistakes with raw chicken?
Chicken Garden Medley
After my family sampled this dish at a friend's house, it quickly became a favorite—especially with our teenage daughters, who request it at least once a week! —Dohreen Winkler, Howell, Michigan
Chicken Caesar Pizza
Dressed greens on top of warm pizza may sound a little strange but trust me, it's fantastic. —Tracy Youngman, Post Falls, Idaho
Tart Cranberry Chicken
My husband loves chicken when it’s nice and moist, as in this autumn recipe. I serve it over hot rice with a salad and warm rolls. The ruby red sauce has a wonderful sweet-tart flavor. —Dorothy Bateman, Carver, Massachusetts
Black Bean Chicken with Rice
This spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, so it’s quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight. —Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Brining the meat overnight helps make these BBQ chicken sliders taste exceptionally good. Plus, they're so tender, they melt in your mouth. —Rachel Kunkel, Schell City, Missouri
Saucy Garlic Chicken
Roasted garlic lends a rich flavor to this appetizing chicken entree, and it complements the spinach nicely. Ideal for entertaining, the recipe can be assembled in advance and popped in the oven when guests arrive. —Joanna Johnson, Flower Mound, Texas
Forgotten Jambalaya
During chilly months, I fix this jambalaya recipe at least once a month. It’s so easy…just chop the vegetables, dump everything in the slow cooker and forget it! Even my sons, who are picky about spicy things, like this dish. —Cindi Coss, Coppell, Texas
Chicken Provolone
Chicken Provolone, though one of my simplest dishes, is also one of my husband’s favorites. It’s easy to prepare and looks fancy served on a dark plate with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil. —Dawn Bryant, Thedford, Nebraska
Chicken and Pineapple Stir-Fry
We love how the snappy veggies and pineapple make this stir-fry taste fresh and bright. Add brown sugar and you get a sweet-and-sour dish that’s packed with flavor. —DeEtta Rasmussen, Fort Madison, Iowa
Pizza Chicken Roll-Ups
I love the chicken roll-ups my mom made for special occasions, filled with spinach and cream cheese. My own kids wouldn't eat those, so I came up with a pizza-flavored variety the whole family enjoys. —Tanja Penquite, Oregon, Ohio
Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Salad
We use this super duper chicken across several meals including tacos, sandwiches, omelets and enchiladas. My little guys love helping measure seasonings. —Karie Houghton, Lynnwood, Washington
Barbecued Strawberry Chicken
When it’s time to impress family and friends, we serve barbecue chicken garnished with strawberries. It’s easier than anyone would ever guess. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Bacon & Swiss Chicken Sandwiches
I created this chicken sandwich recipe based on a meal my daughter ordered at a restaurant. She likes to dip her sandwich in the extra honey-mustard sauce. —Marilyn Moberg, Papillion, Nebraska
Lime Chicken Tacos
Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad. —Tracy Gunter, Boise, Idaho
Honey Pineapple Chicken
I adapted a dinnertime favorite for my slow cooker because it’s so much easier to do the preparation in advance, then let the chicken cook on its own while I do other things. Your family will love the combination of sweet and savory flavors. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Sweet 'n' Sour Curry Chicken
A little mango chutney goes a long way in adding a zesty twist to chicken. I also add some curry powder to give the dish flair. —Carol Conrad, Edmonton, Alberta
Country Chicken with Gravy
Here's a lightened-up take on classic southern comfort food. This chicken gravy recipe has been a hit at our house since the first time we tried it! —Ruth Helmuth, Abbeville, South Carolina
Grilled Chicken with Black Bean Salsa
Black bean salsa with mango gives this dish a Mexican taste without too much heat. I like to slice the chicken and serve it over a long grain and wild rice mix. —Terri Clouse, Connoquenessing, Pennsylvania
Contest-Winning Chicken with Mushroom Sauce
It looks impressive, but this mouthwatering chicken and mushroom sauce comes together in no time. I think its flavor rivals that of many full-fat entrees found in fancy restaurants. —Jennifer Pemberton, Muncie, Indiana
Puff Pastry Chicken Potpie
When my wife is craving comfort food, I whip up my chicken potpie. It's easy to make, sticks to your ribs and delivers soul-satisfying flavor. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Artichoke Chicken Pasta
Here's a colorful, delicious chicken dish that's easy enough for weeknights, yet special enough for guests. Oregano, garlic and a light wine sauce add lovely flavor. —Cathy Dick, Roanoke, Virginia
Apple Thyme Chicken
Apples and chicken may seem like an unusual combination, but they make a wonderful meal when grilled to perfection. The thyme chicken marinade gives a boost of flavor and tenderizes the meat nicely. —Peter Halferty of Corpus Christi, Texas
Chunky Creamy Chicken Soup
I am a stay-at-home mom who relies on my slow cooker for fast, nutritious meals with minimal cleanup and prep time. I knew this recipe was a hit when I didn't have any leftovers and my husband asked me to make it again. —Nancy Clow, Mallorytown, Ontario
Enchilada Chicken
We enjoy ethnic dishes and this is tasty and healthy. Per serving: 162 calories, 31g protein, 1 carb, 3 grams of fat and trace of fiber
Slow-Cooked Chicken a La King
When I know I'll be having a busy day with little time for cooking, I prepare this tasty main dish. Brimming with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, it smells so good while cooking. —Eleanor Mielke, Snohomish, Washington
Cashew Chicken with Ginger
There are lots of recipes for cashew chicken, but my family thinks this one stands alone. We love the flavor from the fresh ginger and the crunch of the cashews. Another plus is it's easy to prepare. —Oma Rollison, El Cajon, California
Zesty Chicken Soup
This spicy chicken soup is chock full of chicken and vegetables. Best of all, it freezes nicely, making a second meal with little effort! —Gwen Nelson, Castro Valley, California
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
These winning chicken rolls, with their crunchy cornflake crust, are so easy to fix but look like I fussed. My family and friends absolutely love them! —Lisa Keys, Middlebury, Connecticut
Chicken Veggie Packets
People think I went to a lot of trouble when I serve these packets. Individual aluminum foil pouches hold the juices in during baking to keep the herbed chicken moist and tender. It saves time and makes cleanup a breeze. —Edna Shaffer, Beulah, Michigan
Mango Chutney Chicken Curry
My father dreamed up this curry and chutney combination. Now my family cooks it on road trips—in rain and sun, in the mountains, even on the beach. Adjust the curry for taste and heat. —Dina Moreno, Seattle, Washington
Shredded Barbecue Chicken over Grits
There’s nothing like juicy meat over steaming grits. And the pumpkin in these grits makes them taste like a spicy, comforting bowl of fall flavors. Your family will come running to the table for this one. —Erin Renouf Mylroie, Santa Clara, Utah
Cumin Chicken
This zesty chicken dish comes together in a flash, so it's perfect for those busy weeknights. But it's so saucy and delicious, it's certainly good enough for company! —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia
Chicken Soup with Beans
Loaded with classic southwestern flavors, this soup is so satisfying. If you like, crush lime-flavored tortilla chips into serving bowls before you ladle in the soup. —Penny Peronia, West Memphis, Arkansas
Chicken with Pineapple
I'm always on the lookout for low-fat recipes that are scrumptious, too, like this one. Quick-cooking chicken breasts get wonderful sweet flavor from pineapple, honey and teriyaki sauce. —Jenny Reece, Lowry, Minnesota
Baked Chicken and Mushrooms
I made up this dish years ago, and it still remains the family's favorite healthy baked chicken recipes. It's a fast weeknight meal, but the fresh mushrooms and sherry make it special enough for a weekend dinner party. —Lise Prestine of South Bend, Indiana
Corn Bread Chicken Bake
To make the most of leftover corn bread, try this hearty main dish casserole. It's moist, delicious and good on any occasion. —Madge Britton, Afton, Tennessee
Angel Hair with Chicken & Cherries
Nutmeg and cherries are the new "it" pair. It’s the secret something that really makes this angel hair pasta dish. My vegetarian friend likes it just as well without chicken. —Mary Ann Sander, Centralia, Missouri
Flavorful Lemon Chicken
This easy and attractive meal is bound to become a staple in your home. Made with everyday ingredients, there's nothing complicated or fancy about this great find. —Elizabeth Hokanson, Arborg, Manitoba
Caribbean Chicken
You'd be hard-pressed to find a marinade that's this flavorful from any store! Add or subtract the jalapenos to suit your gang's taste, and you'll be grilling a new family favorite before you know it. — Rusty Collins, Orlando, Florida
Ham & Swiss Chicken Roll-Ups
White wine dresses up cream of chicken soup to make a lovely sauce for chicken, ham and Swiss cheese roll-ups. The tried-and-true recipe comes from my mother. —Carol McCollough, Missoula, Montana
Busy-Day Chicken Fajitas
When I don't have much time to cook supper, slow cooker chicken fajitas are a flavorful way to keep my family full and satisfied. If you aren't cooking for young tastes, try spicing things up with medium or hot picante sauce. —Michele Furry, Plains, Montana
Creamy Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups
I love to experiment with new pasta dishes. Ingredients I had on hand and frozen sauce led to these tasty lasagna-flavored roll-ups. —Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida
Mushroom & Herb Chicken
My easy skillet dish is a comfort food classic. It's also delicious with rice instead of noodles. No one will guess they're eating healthy with this one. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Fontina Chicken & Pasta Bake
Eat it tonight, or freeze it for later. This cheesy casserole is still awesome months after you make it. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
Years ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, and I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit! —Kristin Cherry, Bothell, Washington
Parmesan Chicken Sandwiches
Coat tender chicken breasts with seasoned bread crumbs and smother in marinara sauce. Served on a hoagie, it’s a real treat! —Sue Bosek, Whittier, California
Grilled Chicken Salad with Blueberry Vinaigrette
We love adding grilled chicken to our salads in the summer, but the real star here is the vinaigrette made with blueberry preserves and maple syrup. It goes great with a fresh baguette and a frosty glass of minted lemonade. —Susan Gauthier, Falmouth, Maine
Red Pepper Chicken
Chicken breasts are treated to black beans, red peppers and juicy tomatoes in this Southwestern supper. We love it served with rice plumped up in chicken broth. —Piper Spiwak, Vienna, Virginia
Chicken Artichoke Skillet
This quick-to-fix chicken entree featuring artichokes and olives has a real Greek flair. Seasoned with lemon juice and oregano, the stovetop chicken turns out moist and tender. —Carol Latimore, Arvada, Colorado
Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
Relax after work with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Chicken with Tarragon Sauce
This is comfort food at its finest. I cook it at least once a week and usually serve with homemade mashed potatoes and sautéed fresh green beans. —Cher Schwartz, Ellisville, Missouri
Baked Chicken Fajitas
I can't remember when or where I found this oven-baked fajitas recipe, but I've used it nearly every week since. We like it with hot sauce for added spice. —Amy Trinkle, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Rosemary Chicken with Spinach & Beans
With two young boys constantly on-the-go, I’m always looking for ways to simplify meals. Since this recipe uses just one skillet, it's a cinch to prepare when I only have a half-hour to make dinner for a hungry family. —Sara Richardson, Littleton, Colorado
Smothered Chicken
You can't go wrong when serving this speedy skillet creation. Top tender chicken breasts with mushrooms, bacon, green onions and cheese for a swift and savory sensation that's sure to become a family favorite. —Penny Walton, Westerville, Ohio
Nutty Chicken Strips
I enjoy cooking for my parents and two brothers. I usually prepare things that are a little out of the ordinary. These strips, seasoned with curry, are great for a family game night. —Betsy Baertlein, Mazeppa, Minnesota
Chicken & Pear Bundles
Filled with smoked mozzarella and sweet pears, these creative bundles are elegance at its easiest. A simple raspberry sauce finishes the dish nicely. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
White Chicken Chili
Folks will enjoy a change from traditional chili when they dip their spoons into this flavorful blend of tender chicken, white beans and just enough zip. This is our favorite white chicken chili recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Once you've tried this tangy, yet delicate chicken piccata, you won't hesitate to make it for company. Seasoned with parmesan and parsley, the chicken cooks up golden brown, then is drizzled with a light lemon sauce. —Susan Pursell, Fountain Valley, California
Chicken Manicotti
When a girlfriend came home from the hospital with her newborn, I sent over this freezer casserole. She and her family raved over how good it was. Try substituting olives for mushrooms or using veal instead of chicken. —Jamie Valocchi, Mesa, Arizona
Garlic Lover's Chicken
The garlic and lemon are great together on this breaded chicken. I've served this several times for special-occasion dinners. —Janice Steinmetz, Somers, Connecticut
Sweet 'n' Spicy Chicken
My husband and three children love this tender, sweet and spicy chicken. Peach preserves add just a touch of sweetness, while taco seasoning and salsa give this dish some kick. This entree can be made even zippier yet by adding more taco seasoning and using spicier salsa. —Sheri White, Higley, Arizona
Quick Chicken Piccata
This is one of my favorite quick chicken recipes. Laced with lemon and simmered in white wine, this stovetop entree is super easy and elegant. Just add sides of bread and veggies to make it into a great meal. —Cynthia Heil, Augusta, Georgia
Potato Chip Chicken Strips
This novel recipe is a fast and tasty change from fried chicken.—Sister Judith LaBrozzi, Canton, Ohio
Here's how to make fried chicken that's better than KFC.
Baked Caesar Chicken
Easy, fast to fix and delicious, this meal maker is a winner! —Kirsten Norgaard, Astoria, Oregon
Baked Mushroom Chicken
This mushroom chicken recipe is the perfect way to dress up a standard weeknight dinner. It's a recipe I can count on to yield tender and flavorful mushroom chicken every time. —Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, Pennsylvania
Creamy Italian Chicken
Italian salad dressing mix is like a secret weapon for adding flavor to this creamy chicken dish. Served over rice or pasta, it's rich, delicious and special enough for company. —Maura McGee, Tallahassee, Florida
Golden Chicken Cordon Bleu
For an entree that's as elegant as it is easy, try this moist classic chicken recipe. It's a simple dish for two, but looks like you really fussed. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Honey Chicken Stir-Fry
I'm a new mom, and my schedule is very dependent upon our young son, so I like meals that can be ready in as little time as possible. This all-in-one chicken stir fry recipe with a hint of sweetness from honey is a big time-saver. —Caroline Sperry, Allentown, Michigan
Tandoori Chicken Panini
The tandoori-style spices in this chicken give it a bold flavor that’s so hard to resist. It tastes incredible tucked between pieces of naan, then grilled for an Indian-inspired panini. —Yasmin Arif, Manassas, Virginia
Barbecued Chicken Pizzas
So fast and so easy with refrigerated pizza crust, these saucy, smoky pizzas make quick fans with their hot-off-the-grill, rustic flavor. They're perfect for spur-of-the-moment cookouts and summer dinners on the patio. —Alicia Trevithick, Temecula, California
Crispy Onion Chicken
My family loves chicken, and I'm always trying new ways to prepare it. This golden-brown chicken with its crunchy french-fried onion coating is great with rice, baked potatoes, macaroni salad or potato salad. —Charlotte Smith, McDonald, Pennsylvania
Chicken Aloha
This chicken is a welcome way to cook a quick, delicious meal. —Beth Corbin, Sarasota, Florida
Honey-Pecan Chicken Breasts
We love to entertain, this is one of my favorite 'special' recipes to welcome dinner guests. The nuts add an elegant touch, and it fills the house with a great aroma. —Penny Davis, Newman Lake, Washington
Crumb-Coated Ranch Chicken
How do you get so much flavor out of a five-ingredient-or-fewer recipe? Ranch dressing is the key! Enjoy this simple dish on busy weeknights or with company for special occasions. —LaDonna Reed, Ponca City, Oklahoma
Grilled Honey-Lime Chicken
Make-ahead marinade is your best friend when feeding a crowd. This one for grilled chicken is good to know and very easy to memorize. —Marybeth Wright, Maitland, Florida
Sage Chicken Cordon Bleu
It's nice to surprise the family with special meals like this during the week. I usually double the recipe so we can enjoy leftovers the next day. —Martha Stine, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Makeover Swiss Chicken Supreme
Stephanie Bell asked our test kitchen to lighten her family-favorite recipe. Even though this makeover recipe is slimmed down, it is still supreme. It has 560 fewer calories, 81 percent less fat and nearly 75 percent less sodium. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
Blueberry-Dijon Chicken
Blueberries and chicken may seem like a strange combination, but prepare to be pleasantly surprised. I add a sprinkling of minced fresh basil as the finishing touch. —Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Pecan-Crusted Chicken Waffle Sandwiches
Chicken and waffles is a Southern tradition. I turned it into a sandwich with a sweet and spicy mustard sauce to give it a kick. Our testers called it “naughty and delicious” and said they could eat it all day long! —Elizabeth Dumont, Boulder, Colorado
Skillet Chicken Stew
It's been 20 years now since I adapted this from a recipe for beef stew. We like it so much that, in all that time, I have never changed any ingredients or amounts - unless it was to double them! Our home's on a river, and my husband, our three boys and I enjoy camping and boating. — Valerie Jordan, Kingmont, West Virginia
Creamy Chicken Fettuccine
Convenient canned soup and process American cheese hurry along the assembly of this creamy sauce loaded with delicious chunks of chicken. —Melissa Cowser, Greenville, Texas
Red Pepper-Curry Chicken
The everyday ingredients in this dish are transformed into a colorful weeknight meal. The sauce beautifully coats the chicken. —John Slivon, Milton, Florida
Chicken with Peach-Cucumber Salsa
To keep our kitchen cool, we grill chicken outdoors and serve it with a minty peach salsa that can easily be made ahead. —Janie Colle, Hutchinson, Kansas
Skillet Chicken Fajitas
Fresh flavor with a flair describes this quick and easy recipe. Fajitas are great for hot summer evenings when you want to serve something fun and tasty, yet keep cooking to a minimum. Try topping them with sour cream, guacamole or both. —Lindsay St. John, Plainfield, Indiana
Chicken Bean Soup
This easy soup is tasty and nutritious, too. I like to top individual bowls with a few sprigs of fresh parsley. Home-baked rolls- I use frozen bread dough- are an added treat. —Phyllis Shaughnessy, Livonia, New York
Amazing Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
I love Chinese takeout food, but I know that it’s very high in sodium and fat. So I got to work at home and created a healthier version. Now I have peace of mind knowing what ingredients are in this slow cooker orange chicken and that it’s better for my family. —Barbara J. Miller, Oakdale, Minnesota
Berry Chicken Salad
Bright berries and creamy goat cheese make this one a winner! —Wendy Ball, Battle Creek, Michigan
Chicken with Celery Root Puree
Celeriac, or celery root, is a root veggie that combines well with other seasonal ingredients and adds nice texture and flavor to this puree. —Healthy Cooking Test Kitchen
The post This Is Everything You Need to Know About Brining appeared first on Taste of Home.
Lindsay D. Mattison