Description
This Cider Brined Roast Chicken is a juicy, flavorful twist on the classic roast, infused with apple cider, herbs, and garlic. The cider brine locks in moisture and adds rich, autumn-inspired flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner or festive meal.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken (3.5 to 5 lbs)
4 cups apple cider (not vinegar)
4 cups water
1/3 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp whole peppercorns
4–6 sprigs fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage
1 onion, quartered
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for roasting)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine apple cider, water, kosher salt, brown sugar, garlic cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, and herbs. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
- Remove from heat and let the brine cool completely.
- Submerge the chicken in the cooled brine. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
- After brining, remove the chicken and pat it very dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Rub the chicken with olive oil or butter. Season the skin with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the cavity with onion quarters and additional herbs if desired.
- Place chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Notes
Add sliced apples or orange peel to the brine for a citrusy-sweet twist.
Use spiced or mulled cider for a holiday variation.
Stuff the chicken with fennel or lemon for added depth.
Brush with maple butter during the last 20 minutes of roasting for a glazed finish.
Roast root vegetables in the same pan to absorb pan juices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 325°F oven or microwave gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 12–24 hours brining time)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of chicken
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg