Brine Time Calculator

Wet brine: ~1 hr per lb (max 8 hr poultry). Dry brine: 12-24 hr regardless of size.

Inputs

Result

Loading calculator…

General calculation reads

Amazon affiliate

As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases. This does not add cost for you.

How to use this calculator

  • Enter meat weight.
  • Pick wet, dry, or fast brine.
  • Read time; brine in fridge.

About this calculator

Brining (wet or dry) seasons through and improves moisture retention. Wet brine: 1 cup kosher salt per gallon of water, submerge meat fully, fridge 1 hr per pound up to 8 hr (longer = waterlogged texture). Dry brine: ½ tsp kosher salt per pound rubbed on the skin/surface, fridge uncovered 12-24 hours — exit moisture, crispier skin. Dry brine has become preferred for turkey and chicken; wet brine remains common for pork chops and brisket pre-smoke.

Frequently asked

Wet vs. dry — which is better?+
Dry: better skin, easier (no big container), better flavor concentration. Wet: more juicy. Modern consensus: dry for poultry, wet for pork chops.
How much salt for wet brine?+
1 cup kosher salt (Diamond Crystal) per gallon water. Add ½ cup sugar for caramelization. Bring water to simmer, dissolve, cool fully, submerge.
Can I brine too long?+
Yes — beyond 8 hours wet brine, meat goes mushy. Dry brine is more forgiving up to 48 hr; longer dries out exterior excessively.
Do I rinse after brining?+
Wet: pat dry, no rinse needed if salt level was right. Dry: do not rinse — that defeats the purpose. Just pat dry and cook.
What about kosher poultry?+
Already pre-salted. Don't additional brine — taste before salting.

Related calculators

More tools you might like

Hand-picked tools that pair well with this one — same audience, same intent.