Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken. I still remember the first time I marinated chicken in buttermilk; it transformed an ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary feast. The tangy richness of buttermilk combined with the spice of hot sauce creates a succulent brine that infuses the chicken with flavor and moisture. It’s almost like a secret weapon for any home cook looking to impress!
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard barbecue with friends, this dish has a way of bringing everyone together. The anticipation builds as the chicken sits in the brine, soaking up all those delicious flavors. When it’s time to grill, the aroma that fills the air is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. And let’s talk about the texture! Grilled to perfection, each bite of the chicken is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to hearty grains, making it a perfect option for any occasion. Plus, the colors and presentation of the grilled chicken glistening with barbecue sauce are enough to make any plate look gourmet. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken—your taste buds will thank you!
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Medium
300 kcal
30 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Charcoal Chimney Starter, Grilling Tongs, Cast Iron Grill Pan, Meat Thermometer, Mixing Bowls
Why We Love This Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
Flavor Explosion
Nothing beats the depth of flavor that Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken brings to the table. The brine not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delightful balance of heat and tang. The combination of buttermilk and hot sauce creates a unique marinade that leaves the chicken bursting with flavor.
Moisture Mastery
Brining is a game-changer! The magic of soaking the chicken in a buttermilk brine ensures that every piece remains succulent and juicy, even after grilling. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve served this dish and received compliments about how tender and moist the chicken is.
Easy Preparation
It’s simple to pull this dish together. Mix the brine ingredients, let the chicken soak, and then grill away. The hands-on time is minimal, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal or just enjoy some time with family.
Grill Marks for Days
Grilling brings out a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the brined chicken. The charred exterior adds a beautiful texture, and those grill marks just scream summer. It’s like a visual feast that complements the taste!
Customizable for You
This recipe is versatile too! Adjust the level of spice in the brine to suit your taste. Not a fan of it too spicy? You can always dial back the hot sauce or mix in some sweeter elements. You can also experiment with different sauces post-grill, making this chicken your own.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual get-together or a holiday feast, Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken fits right in. The vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a go-to dish for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home.
Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken Shopping List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the deliciousness of Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken. Each ingredient brings its unique contribution, creating a harmony of flavors that you’ll love. The star players are the buttermilk and hot sauce, which transform the chicken into a juicy masterpiece. Let’s take a look at the shopping list!
- 2 cups buttermilk – This creamy base ensures moisture and tenderness, making the chicken irresistibly juicy.
- 2 cups cold water – Helps to dilute the brine and balance the flavors.
- ¼ cup kosher salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors.
- 1 Tbsp black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that complements the heat from the sauce.
- ½ cup hot sauce – The heart of the flavor; choose your favorite brand for the perfect level of spice.
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed – This adds a hint of sweetness to balance the heat.
- 1 lime, sliced – Gives a refreshing citrus note, brightening the brine.
- 4 garlic cloves – Infuses the chicken with aromatic depth.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The perfect canvas for this vibrant brine.
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce – A glaze that adds a smoky sweetness in the final stage of grilling.
- 2 Tbsp hot sauce – For brushing on the chicken before serving for an extra kick.
Cooking Instructions for Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
The cooking process for Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy steps to achieve a delicious and juicy chicken that’s sure to impress.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, cold water, kosher salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and brown sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. The mixture should be creamy and well combined. Don’t forget to taste it—this brine should be perfectly seasoned!
Once your brine is ready, add the lime slices and garlic cloves to the mixture. The lime adds a refreshing zesty flavor, and the garlic infuses the brine with aromatic notes that will elevate your chicken.
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a gallon ziplock bag. Carefully pour the prepared brine over the chicken, ensuring the meat is well covered. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible to help the brine work its magic.
Refrigerate the chicken for 24 hours. This is crucial! Allowing the chicken to marinate in the brine gives it the flavor and moisture it needs. If you’re in a pinch, let it sit in the brine for at least a few hours.
After the marinating time is up, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the brine. The chicken will look plump and flavorful.
In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and the remaining hot sauce. This mix will serve as a glaze to brush onto the chicken while it grills, adding that burnt sweetness that is just heavenly.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing hot. You want a good sear on your chicken!
Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for about 12 to 15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165ºF. This ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked!
As the chicken nears completion, use a brush to apply the BBQ sauce mixture on each side. This will caramelize beautifully and add a gorgeous finish to your grilled chicken.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy when you slice into it.
Things Worth Knowing
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF for safe consumption.
- Brining Time: While 24 hours is ideal, even a shorter brining time will impart some flavor. If pressed for time, aim for at least an hour.
- Grilling Tips: Make sure your grill is preheated and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Clean the grates before placing the chicken on them.
- Resting Period: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling is important. This step prevents the juices from running out when you cut into it.
Tips and Tricks about Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
Cooking is an art, and perfecting Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken can be enhanced with a few savvy tips! Here are some recommendations to elevate your cooking.
- Storage: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, this chicken will last for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container or bag. It should maintain quality for up to 3 months.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even a side of rice to complete the meal. The flavors complement a variety of sides!
- Grill Marks: To get those perfect grill marks, ensure your grill is hot enough. Avoid flipping too often; let it sear for a few minutes before turning.
- Using Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer bone-in cuts, adjust your grilling time to ensure they reach the desired internal temperature.
What Goes Well With This Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
When serving Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken, pairing it with the right accompaniments can make your meal unforgettable. Here are some ideas for perfect pairings:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the chicken’s rich flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make for a colorful and delicious side dish.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The bright flavors of cilantro and lime in rice complement the chicken and bring a refreshing taste to the table.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy contrast to the grilled chicken.
- Summer BBQs: This dish is perfect for casual summer gatherings or BBQs, where its flavors can shine alongside other grilled favorites.
- Picnic or Potluck: Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken is ideal for sharing at picnics or potlucks, making it an easy crowd-pleaser!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. With its juicy, tender meat and the perfect balance of heat and tang, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. I encourage you to try making it at home for dinner; your family will be raving about it for days!
Buttermilk Hot Sauce Brined Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, cold water, kosher salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and brown sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. The mixture should be creamy and well combined. Don’t forget to taste it—this brine should be perfectly seasoned!
- Once your brine is ready, add the lime slices and garlic cloves to the mixture. The lime adds a refreshing zesty flavor, and the garlic infuses the brine with aromatic notes that will elevate your chicken.
- Take your chicken breasts and place them in a gallon ziplock bag. Carefully pour the prepared brine over the chicken, ensuring the meat is well covered. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible to help the brine work its magic.
- Refrigerate the chicken for 24 hours. This is crucial! Allowing the chicken to marinate in the brine gives it the flavor and moisture it needs. If you're in a pinch, let it sit in the brine for at least a few hours.
- After the marinating time is up, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the brine. The chicken will look plump and flavorful.
- In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and the remaining hot sauce. This mix will serve as a glaze to brush onto the chicken while it grills, adding that burnt sweetness that is just heavenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing hot. You want a good sear on your chicken!
- Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for about 12 to 15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165ºF. This ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked!
- As the chicken nears completion, use a brush to apply the BBQ sauce mixture on each side. This will caramelize beautifully and add a gorgeous finish to your grilled chicken.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy when you slice into it.
Notes
- Storage: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, this chicken will last for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken. Just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container or bag. It should maintain quality for up to 3 months.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even a side of rice to complete the meal. The flavors complement a variety of sides!
- Grill Marks: To get those perfect grill marks, ensure your grill is hot enough. Avoid flipping too often; let it sear for a few minutes before turning.
- Using Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer bone-in cuts, adjust your grilling time to ensure they reach the desired internal temperature.
