What does salt in brine do to chicken?

1. Adds Flavor: The most obvious effect is simply adding saltiness to the chicken.

2. Increases Moisture: Brining works by osmosis. The salt in the brine draws water from the surrounding solution (the brine) into the chicken's muscle fibers. This results in:

* Juicier Chicken: The added moisture makes the chicken more tender and succulent.

* Less Shrinkage: The increased water content helps prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking.

3. Improves Texture: The extra moisture in the chicken also helps break down proteins, making it more tender.

4. Enhances Flavor Penetration: The salt in the brine also acts as a flavor carrier, helping other flavors from the brine penetrate the chicken's flesh more deeply.

Overall, brining chicken with salt results in a more flavorful, juicy, tender, and less dry piece of poultry.