19 Southern Living Sweet Tea Brined Chicken Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!

Published on: Apr 22, 2024

Southern living is all about hospitality, comfort, and of course, delicious food. And what's more quintessentially southern than a tall glass of sweet tea? This staple beverage is not only refreshing, but it also serves as the perfect brine for chicken. That's right, sweet tea brined chicken is a must-try recipe for any southern food lover. Not only does it infuse the chicken with a subtle sweetness, but it also helps keep the meat moist and tender. So, put on your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering dish.

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Sweet Tea Brined Chicken

Main Ingredients: Chicken, Sweet Tea, Lemon Juice, Kosher Salt, Cajun

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One of the most popular ways to prepare beer can chicken is by using a sweet tea brine. This method infuses the chicken with the sweet, subtle flavors of tea while also keeping the meat tender and juicy. To make the brine, simply mix together 4 cups of brewed sweet tea, 1/4 cup of salt, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Let the chicken marinate in the brine for at least 4 hours before grilling.

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Sweet Citrus Tea

Main Ingredients: Tea, Sweet Tea, Lemon, Navel Orange, Blood Orange, Ice

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If you're looking for a twist on the classic sweet tea brine, try using a citrus-flavored tea instead. Lemon, orange, or even peach tea can add a refreshing and tangy flavor to your beer can chicken. Don't be afraid to mix and match different citrus flavors to find your perfect combination.

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Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken Thighs

Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, Lemon, Orange, Salt, Black Pepper, Italian

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For a spin on traditional BBQ chicken, try using a sweet tea marinade on chicken thighs. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Simply mix together 1 cup of brewed sweet tea, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, and a dash of your favorite spices. Marinate the chicken for at least an hour before grilling.

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Sweet Tea-Brined Hot Chicken Wings

Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, Kosher Salt, Smoked Salt, Chicken Wings

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If you love a little heat with your sweet, try making hot chicken wings with a sweet tea brine. The brine will help balance out the spiciness of the wings while also keeping them nice and juicy. To make the wings, follow the same steps for the sweet tea brine and then toss the chicken in your favorite hot sauce before grilling.

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Smoked Salmon With Bourbon Marinade

Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Light Brown Sugar, Freshly Ground

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For a more elevated beer can chicken experience, try using a bourbon marinade on your chicken. The smoky and sweet flavors of the bourbon pair perfectly with the smokiness of the chicken. To make the marinade, mix together 1/4 cup of bourbon, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours before grilling.

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Instant Pot BBQ Brisket

Main Ingredients: Beef Brisket, Sweet Tea, Barbecue Sauce, Hot Sauce

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If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the flavors of beer can chicken, try making an Instant Pot BBQ brisket. This method combines the tenderness of a slow-cooked brisket with the flavors of a sweet tea brine. Simply follow your Instant Pot's instructions for cooking brisket and add in a cup of brewed sweet tea to the pot.

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Ginger Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chops

Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, Soy Sauce, Lemon Juice, Salt, Garlic Cloves

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For a unique twist on beer can chicken, try using a ginger sweet tea brine on pork chops. The combination of the sweet tea and spicy ginger will add a depth of flavor to the pork chops. Simply mix together 4 cups of brewed sweet tea, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and 1/4 cup of salt. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 4 hours before grilling.

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Arnold Palmer Drink

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Sweet Tea, Lemonade, Vodka, Bourbon

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For a refreshing summer beverage to pair with your beer can chicken, try making an Arnold Palmer drink. This classic combination of sweet tea and lemonade is the perfect accompaniment to a hot day and a delicious meal. Simply mix together equal parts of brewed sweet tea and lemonade and serve over ice.

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Fried Chicken With Coffee Molasses

Main Ingredients: Water, Sweet Tea, Salt, Pepper, Dried Thyme, Dried

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For a unique and flavorful fried chicken, try using a coffee molasses marinade. The combination of the sweet molasses and bold coffee will add a rich and complex flavor to the chicken. Simply mix together 1/4 cup of brewed coffee, 1/4 cup of molasses, and a dash of your favorite spices. Marinate the chicken for at least an hour before frying.

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Grilled Chicken Salad With Sweet Tea Infused Dressing

Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken Breasts, Vegetable Oil, Salt, Freshly

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If you're looking for a healthier option for your beer can chicken, try making a grilled chicken salad with a sweet tea infused dressing. The dressing adds a hint of sweetness to the salad while also keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. To make the dressing, mix together 1/4 cup of brewed sweet tea, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of your choice of vinegar.

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Sweet Tea Chicken Summer Salad

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Sweet Tea, Romaine Lettuce, Tomato

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For a light and refreshing summer meal, try making a sweet tea chicken summer salad. This salad combines the flavors of a sweet tea brine with fresh, seasonal ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal. Simply grill your beer can chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, fresh fruits, and a sweet tea vinaigrette dressing.

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Sweet Tea Oven-Fried Chicken Sliders w/ Jalapeno...

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Buttermilk, Sweet Tea, Kosher Salt

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For a fun and unique way to enjoy beer can chicken, try making sweet tea oven-fried chicken sliders with jalapeno coleslaw. The sweet tea brine keeps the chicken moist and flavorful while the jalapeno coleslaw adds a spicy kick. Serve the chicken on slider buns for a perfect party appetizer or game day snack.

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Sweet Tea Oven-Fried Chicken

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Chicken Drumsticks, Buttermilk, Sweet

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For a healthier twist on traditional fried chicken, try making sweet tea oven-fried chicken. This method uses a sweet tea brine to keep the chicken juicy while baking it in the oven for a crispy, golden crust. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of veggies for a delicious and guilt-free meal.

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Sweet Tea Oven-fried Chicken

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Chicken Drumsticks, Buttermilk, Sweet

For a twist on the classic oven-fried chicken, try using a sweet tea marinade to infuse the chicken with flavor. The addition of sweet tea adds a subtle sweetness to the chicken and keeps it moist while baking. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner.

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Sweet Tea Oven Fried Chicken

Main Ingredients: Gold Peak Sweet Tea, Kosher Salt, Garlic Cloves, Lemon

For a healthier version of your favorite fried chicken, try making sweet tea oven-fried chicken. This method uses a sweet tea brine to keep the chicken tender and juicy while baking it in the oven for a crispy, golden crust. Serve with a side of your favorite veggies for a well-rounded meal.

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Sweet Tea Sangria {with fresh peaches & raspberries}

Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, White Wine, Raspberries, Sliced Peaches

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For a refreshing and fruity cocktail to enjoy with your beer can chicken, try making a sweet tea sangria. This recipe combines the flavors of sweet tea, fresh peaches, and raspberries for a delicious and summery drink. Simply mix together equal parts of brewed sweet tea and white wine, add in some fresh fruit, and let it chill before serving.

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Lemongrass-Scented Rice Noodle Salad with Mint and...

Main Ingredients: Shallot, All Purpose Flour, Canola Oil, Salt

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For a light and flavorful side dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try making a lemongrass-scented rice noodle salad with mint and herbs. The lemongrass adds a unique and fragrant flavor to the salad while the mint and herbs add a refreshing and bright touch. Serve chilled for the perfect summer side dish.

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Sweet Tea Margaritas

Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, Lime Juice, Tequila, Triple Sec, Sugar

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For a twist on the classic margarita, try using sweet tea instead of lime juice. The sweetness of the tea pairs perfectly with the tangy lime and tequila for a refreshing and flavorful drink. Simply mix together 1/4 cup of brewed sweet tea, 1/4 cup of tequila, and 1/4 cup of triple sec. Serve over ice and enjoy!

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Smoked Sweet Tea Pork Jerky

Main Ingredients: Pork Loin, Sweet Tea, Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar, Garlic

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If you're a fan of jerky, try making a unique and delicious smoked sweet tea pork jerky. The combination of the sweet tea and smoky flavors will have you reaching for more. Simply marinate thin slices of pork in a mixture of brewed sweet tea, soy sauce, and your choice of spices before smoking or baking to perfection.

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Moscato Sangria

Main Ingredients: Moscato, Sweet Tea, Triple Sec, Frozen Peaches, Fresh

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For a sweeter and more indulgent sangria to enjoy with your beer can chicken, try making a Moscato sangria. This recipe combines the flavors of sweet tea, Moscato wine, and fresh fruits for a delicious and fruity drink. Serve chilled for a perfect summertime treat.

Why Sweet Tea Brine?

Deliciously Moist Chicken

One of the main reasons why sweet tea brine works so well for chicken is because of its high sugar and acid content. The sugar helps to caramelize the skin, giving it a beautiful golden color and crispy texture. On the other hand, the acid in the tea helps to tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.

Diverse Flavor Options

While the classic sweet tea brine is made with black tea and sugar, there are endless variations you can try. For a more herbal flavor, you can use green tea and add in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Feeling adventurous? Try using a fruity tea blend and adding some citrus slices for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize the recipe to suit your taste buds.

Easy and Affordable

Another great thing about this recipe is that it's incredibly simple and budget-friendly. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and you can even use leftover tea bags for the brine. It's a great way to elevate a budget-friendly protein like chicken and turn it into a gourmet dish. Plus, you can make a big batch of brine and use it for multiple meals throughout the week.

How to Make Sweet Tea Brined Chicken

Now that you know why sweet tea brine is a game-changer for chicken, let's dive into how to make it. The process is straightforward and only requires a few simple steps. First, you'll need to brew a strong batch of sweet tea and let it cool. Then, add in your preferred herbs or spices and let the chicken marinate in the brine for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. Finally, cook the chicken as desired, whether it's grilled, baked, or fried. Pro tip: To add an extra layer of flavor, reserve some of the brine and brush it over the chicken while it's cooking.

Final Thoughts

Sweet tea brined chicken is a southern delicacy that everyone should try at least once. It's a simple yet flavorful way to take your chicken game to the next level. So, the next time you're craving some good old-fashioned southern cooking, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you.