Description
Transform your holiday turkey into the juiciest, most flavorful centerpiece with this easy Juicy Turkey Brine recipe. Using a mix of salt, sugar, citrus, and herbs, this brine infuses the bird from the inside out—perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a tender roast. Whether you’re looking for a quick prep before a feast, a reliable method for a juicy Thanksgiving turkey, or foolproof dinner ideas, this brine has your back. Ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, it’s the ultimate easy recipe to upgrade your poultry game.
Ingredients
1 gallon water
1 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
1 tablespoon dried rosemary or 2–3 sprigs fresh
1 tablespoon dried thyme or 2–3 sprigs fresh
2 bay leaves
5 cloves garlic, smashed
1 large onion, quartered
2 oranges, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar or apple juice (optional)
1 gallon cold water or ice
1 whole turkey (12–16 lb), thawed
Instructions
1. In a large pot, bring 1 gallon water, salt, sugar, herbs, spices, garlic, onion, citrus, and optional ingredients to a boil, stirring until dissolved.
2. Let the brine cool completely, then stir in 1 gallon cold water or ice to dilute and chill.
3. Submerge the thawed turkey in the brine using a brining bag, bucket, or cooler. Ensure it’s fully covered.
4. Brine the turkey in the refrigerator or cooler for 12 to 24 hours.
5. Remove turkey, rinse well under cold water, and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
6. Roast your turkey using your preferred method. Do not add more salt.
7. Let turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving to retain juices.
Notes
Always cool the brine before adding the turkey to prevent partial cooking.
Rinse the bird well after brining to remove excess surface salt and aromatics.
Do not salt your turkey again after brining—it’s already well-seasoned.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 85