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Buttermilk Brined Chicken with Cress and Bread Salad
I still remember the first time I made this — it was a Tuesday when I'd forgotten to thaw chicken earlier in the day, and instead of calling takeout, I brined the breasts right before dinner. The buttermilk did its quiet magic over the next few hours, tenderizing something that usually ends up dry on my stovetop.What keeps it in my rotation isn't any fancy technique; it's the way the cress adds a peppery brightness to cut through the rich, crumbly cheese and tangy bread. I've learned to press the salad gently after tossing — you want the flavors married but the greens still crisp.The brine itself is simple: just buttermilk, salt, sugar, and garlic. I like to use whatever mix of chicken parts feels right that day. Bone-in thighs give more flavor; breasts are quicker. Either way, pull them out a half hour before cooking so they cook evenly.
Ingredients
Method
- Make the brine: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, sugar, and garlic until the salt dissolves. Add chicken breasts (or thighs) and ensure they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours — up to overnight if you prefer something more thoroughly seasoned.
- Prepare the bread: Heat oven to 375°F. Toss torn bread pieces with a drizzle of olive oil on a baking sheet. Bake until golden, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely while you finish the chicken.
- Season and cook the chicken: Remove chicken from brine and pat dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side (longer for thighs) until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer to a cutting board and rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Build the salad: In a large bowl, toss cress with sliced shallot, lemon zest, red wine vinegar, and extra-virgin olive oil. Gently fold in crumbled feta and baked bread pieces — press lightly so ingredients mingle but stay distinct.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange sliced chicken over the salad. Drizzle any pan juices from the resting chicken on top. Finish with an extra crack of pepper and a sprinkle of flaky salt if you like.
Nutrition
Notes
If you're short on time, a quick brine of just 30 minutes works — the salt still penetrates enough to make a difference.
Leftover chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to three days; bring it back to room temperature before slicing for the salad so it doesn't cool everything down.
I swap feta for goat cheese sometimes, or add toasted pine nuts if I'm feeling indulgent — both hold up beautifully against the tangy cress.
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