How to Brine a Turkey

How to Brine a Turkey is a simple guide to make an easy brine that will result in a flavorful turkey. This easy turkey brine recipe can be used on any type of poultry like whole chicken, cornish game hens, guinea fowl, and even brining a turkey breast. The brine is very flavorful, not fussy and the brining process takes.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Cooling Time 2

Total Time 2 20

Servings Cups

Author Heather

Ingredients

1 gallon water
1 gallon apple cider or apple juice
2 cups kosher salt or sea salt
1 cup dark brown sugar
3 medium oranges sliced
1 head garlic whole cloves
3 tbsp black peppercorns
4 bay leaves fresh or dried
6 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 sprigs fresh thyme

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a large stockpot. Bring to a boil. Stir occasionally until salt and sugar are dissolved, about 10 minutes. Remove and cool to room temperature.
Place turkey breast side down into brining vessel (brine bag, bucket, or large pot with lid). Cover with cooled brining solution. Cover and refrigerate according to brine times in notes.
Remove the turkey from the brine solution and rinse well inside and out with cool running water. Pat dry with paper towels and either season and roast or place on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and refrigerate overnight (uncovered) to dry it out further.

Notes

Brine Times:

12–14 lb. turkey: 16–18 hours
14–16 lb. turkey: 18–20 hours
16–18 lb. turkey: 20–22 hours
18–20 lb. turkey: 22–24 hours

Nutrition