How Long to Marinate Chicken in Pickle Juice? (Detailed Guide)

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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

MarinadepH (Acidity)
Apple Cider Vinegar3.0 - 3.2
Beer3.7 - 4.1
Bourbon 3.7 - 4.0
Butter Milk4.4 - 4.8
Carbonated Drinks3.0 - 4.0
Coffee4.9 - 5.1
Cranberry Juice2.6 - 2.8
Grapefruit Juice3.0 - 3.8
Heavy Cream6.5 - 6.8
Lemon juice2.0 - 2.6
Lime juice2.0 - 2.4
Milk6.7-6.9
Orange Juice3.3 - 4.2
Pickle Juice3.2 - 3.7
Red Wine3.0 - 4.0
White Vinegar2.3 - 2.5
Yogurt4.4 - 4.8
Sour Cream4.5

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

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

    1. Take a large glass bowl or plastic container and mix together the ingredients
    2. Season with salt and black pepper, etc. as per taste
    3. Add chicken to the bowl
    4. 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!

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About Karen Wilson

Karen is a foodie to the core. She loves any variety of food - spicy or junk! Her slender body and height are deceiving, as she enjoys eating hearty meals that would leave most people gasping for air. She has an appetite for life, and wants everyone around her to share in it too.

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