If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly easy to make, the Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. This comfort meal features juicy chicken thighs simmered slowly in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce made from Catalina dressing, honey, and soy sauce, creating an irresistible glaze that perfectly balances every bite. It’s a delightful blend of vibrant colors, bold tastes, and tender textures that come together effortlessly for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing its own role to elevate the dish’s vibrant flavor and appealing texture. The balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of tang comes from combining fresh produce with pantry staples, making this recipe both accessible and impressive.
- 2 pounds chicken thighs: These juicy, flavorful cuts stay tender during braising and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Provides a rich base for browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables, enhancing the overall depth.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth when softened in the skillet.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings a pop of color and a mild sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
- 1 cup Catalina salad dressing: This key ingredient introduces a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that defines the dish.
- 1/4 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce gently, creating a luscious glaze for the chicken.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds umami richness and a savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie everything together and enhance natural flavors.
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your skillet is prepped. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; this simple rub provides a savory base that complements the sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Browning locks in juices and adds a rich texture that enhances the final dish. After browning, set the chicken aside while you cook the veggies.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper until they soften, about 5 minutes. The natural sweetness from these vegetables creates a lovely flavor base that melds with the Catalina dressing later on.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Next, stir in the Catalina salad dressing, honey, and soy sauce until fully combined with the softened veggies. This sauce will be the luscious, tangy glaze that coats every piece of chicken to perfection.
Step 5: Braise the Chicken
Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and coating them evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, then transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the chicken braise gently for 45-50 minutes, allowing it to become incredibly tender while soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, it’s time to bring this dish to the table. The sauce will have thickened slightly, creating a shiny, irresistible glaze over the chicken.
How to Serve Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a bright, fresh note that contrasts nicely with the rich sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a delightful subtle crunch and visual interest.
Side Dishes
This dish shines served over fluffy white or brown rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad work wonderfully to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the braised chicken over mashed sweet potatoes or creamy polenta for an extra comforting meal. You can also use the chicken as a filling for warm tortillas, topped with fresh avocado and crunchy slaw for a lively taco night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the braised chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the sauce and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful every time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster and can dry out. Watch the braising time and consider reducing it slightly to keep the chicken tender.
Is Catalina salad dressing the same as Catalina sauce?
Generally, yes. Catalina dressing is a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that works perfectly for this recipe. If you can’t find it, a barbecue or French dressing might work as a substitute, though the flavor will vary.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep all the wonderful umami flavors free of gluten.
What’s the best way to brown chicken evenly?
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown in batches if needed so each piece gets a nice, golden crust.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker instead?
You can! Brown the chicken first for added flavor, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours until tender. Just skip the oven braising step.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comforting goodness all in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe always impresses without any fuss. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite meals to make and share!
Print
Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Braised Catalina Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish featuring chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and tangy Catalina dressing sauce with honey, soy sauce, and aromatic vegetables. This easy oven-braised recipe combines browning for depth of flavor with slow braising for juicy, succulent chicken perfect served over rice or your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken thighs
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for braising the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, which will help build the flavor base.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the Catalina salad dressing, honey, and soy sauce. Stir well, combining all elements to create the braising sauce.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the sauce.
- Cover and Braise: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, then transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Braise Chicken: Cook the chicken in the oven for 45-50 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and tender, allowing flavors to meld deeply.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the Braised Catalina Chicken hot, ideally over cooked rice or alongside your preferred side dishes.
- Enjoy: Relish the flavorful, juicy chicken with its rich, tangy sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with bone-in chicken breasts if preferred, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Ensure the skillet used is oven-safe to avoid damage during braising.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing vegetables.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
