Description
This Dill Pickle Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in tangy dill pickle juice and brown sugar, then seasoned with a smoky, savory spice blend before roasting to perfection. The marinade infuses the chicken with bright, zesty flavors complemented by fresh dill and garlic, making it a delicious and easy dinner option that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and rice pilaf.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 (6-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 & 1/2 cups dill pickle juice
- 2 & 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar (divided)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Couple small sprigs of fresh dill, finely chopped
Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon if using table salt)
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Additional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Roasted vegetables and rice pilaf, for serving (or your favorite sides)
Instructions
- Pound the Chicken: Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each chicken breast to a little more than 3/4-inch thick at the thickest part. This ensures even cooking across all pieces.
- Marinate: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable Ziploc bag along with 1 & 1/2 cups dill pickle juice, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped fresh dill. Remove as much air as possible, massage the bag to coat the chicken thoroughly, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or up to overnight to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 & 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar, coarse salt, smoked paprika, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly mixed.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, discarding the liquid. Pat each breast dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear and crisp crust.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken on the foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over both sides and massage it into the meat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly onto both sides, covering as much surface area as possible.
- Roast: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F. Timing may vary based on chicken thickness and oven; some prefer to remove at 162°F and let rest to reach final temperature.
- Rest: Let the chicken rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This step helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve alongside roasted vegetables and rice pilaf or your preferred side dishes. Enjoy your flavorful Dill Pickle Chicken!
Notes
- Marinating time can be extended overnight for deeper flavor, but do not exceed 24 hours to avoid overly soft texture.
- Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- If you prefer less salty chicken, reduce the coarse salt in the seasoning mix accordingly.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results to avoid overcooking.
- Dill pickle juice can vary in flavor and saltiness depending on brand; adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American