Brined Lunch Meat

Brined Lunch Meat is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious way to prepare chicken breasts for an easy, homemade deli meat alternative. The brining process, using Redmond fine salt, a touch of raw honey (or keto honey), and filtered water, ensures the chicken is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. After brining, the chicken is cooked in tallow or butter to achieve a rich, savory taste. This homemade lunch meat is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snacking, with the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into your food.

Ingredients & Benefits:

1. Chicken Breasts

   • Benefit: Chicken breast is a lean, high-quality protein source that is low in fat and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B6, niacin (B3), and selenium. It's excellent for muscle repair, immune support, and overall health. It’s versatile and easy to season, making it a great base for this brined lunch meat.

2. Redmond Fine Salt

   • Benefit: Redmond fine salt is a mineral-rich sea salt that contains essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. It enhances the flavor of the chicken while helping to maintain electrolyte balance, hydration, and proper muscle function. The salt also helps tenderize the chicken during the brining process.

3. Raw Honey or Keto Honey

   • Benefit: Raw honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the brine and contains beneficial enzymes, antioxidants, and antimicrobial properties. It can help soothe digestive issues and support immune health. For a low-carb option, keto honey (such as one made from monk fruit or stevia) provides sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels, making it suitable for a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

4. Filtered Water

   • Benefit: Using filtered water ensures that no unwanted chemicals (like chlorine or chloramine) are absorbed by the chicken during the brining process. Filtered water helps create a clean, pure brine that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

5. Tallow or Butter

   • Benefit: Both tallow and butter add healthy fats to the chicken, helping it stay moist and tender while providing a rich, savory flavor.

     • Tallow (beef fat) is nutrient-dense and rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and energy.

     • Butter (especially grass-fed butter) is high in vitamin A and butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health and inflammation reduction.

This Brined Lunch Meat recipe results in tender, flavorful chicken breasts with a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. Whether used in wraps, sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own, this homemade lunch meat is a healthier, more customizable option than store-bought deli meats, packed with quality ingredients and no unwanted additives.