This is a detailed guide on how long to marinate chicken in pickle juice for amazing results.
Let’s start!
How Long to Marinate Chicken in Pickle Juice?
According to USDA, you can safely keep chicken marinated for up to 48 hours in the refrigerator but in most cases, you would need to marinate the chicken in pickle juice for just 4-8 hours based on the recipe you plan to prepare.
It is important to note that pickle juice is more acidic than many of the commonly used marinade and thus may not need a longer marination period.
For example, while pickle juice pH (measurement of acidity) is 3.2-3.7, that of buttermilk is around 4.4. Lower the number more acidic the food is.
Table: pH Value of Various Marinades
| Marinade | pH (Acidity) |
|---|---|
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 3.0 - 3.2 |
| Beer | 3.7 - 4.1 |
| Bourbon | 3.7 - 4.0 |
| Butter Milk | 4.4 - 4.8 |
| Carbonated Drinks | 3.0 - 4.0 |
| Coffee | 4.9 - 5.1 |
| Cranberry Juice | 2.6 - 2.8 |
| Grapefruit Juice | 3.0 - 3.8 |
| Heavy Cream | 6.5 - 6.8 |
| Lemon juice | 2.0 - 2.6 |
| Lime juice | 2.0 - 2.4 |
| Milk | 6.7-6.9 |
| Orange Juice | 3.3 - 4.2 |
| Pickle Juice | 3.2 - 3.7 |
| Red Wine | 3.0 - 4.0 |
| White Vinegar | 2.3 - 2.5 |
| Yogurt | 4.4 - 4.8 |
| Sour Cream | 4.5 |
More acidity means the marinade can penetrate into the chicken faster and thus shorter marination period.
Why Marinate Chicken in Pickle Juice?
Pickle juice is a salty liquid that is left over after pickles are made. It generally contains water, vinegar, salt, and spices.
Pickle juice is a good marinade because it is acidic and will help to tenderize the meat.
But it is also recommended because of the taste it brings into the chicken recipes, unlike any other marinade.
Here is how you can prepare pickle juice –
Can You marinate Chicken in Pickle Juice Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate chicken in pickle juice overnight. Make sure you do not overdo this, as pickle juice is a strong marinade, and if the chicken is kept in it for long, it may become mushy.
Another important aspect to keep in mind is not to use reactive cookware containers to keep the chicken. This can spoil the chicken’s color and flavor.
It is best to use plastic containers or glass containers for this.
Pickle Juice Marinade Recipe
There are so many ways to prepare a pickle juice marinade. Here is a quick one –
Pickle Juice Marinade
Quick Pickle Juice Marinade
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pickle juice
- 1/4 cup Oil (olive oil preferred)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, pepper, etc. as per taste
Instructions
- Take a large glass bowl or plastic container and mix together the ingredients
- Season with salt and black pepper, etc. as per taste
- Add chicken to the bowl
- Marinate for at least 2 hrs up to overnight (or based on the recipe guidelines)
Final Words
I hope this helped you decide if pickle juice is a good marinade for your chicken recipe and how long to use it.
In case you have any queries, please drop me a line.
Do share this with friends and family who love the taste of pickle juice!