Braised Catalina Chicken is a simple, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a tangy, sweet Catalina sauce with vibrant herbs, making it moist and full of flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just a few pantry staples and 40 minutes. For a tasty pairing, try serving this with my Chicken Wellington or a fresh jar of homemade Blueberry Chia Jam.
Why You'll Love Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner
Make Braised Catalina Chicken easily at home with this quick, comforting recipe. Juicy chicken simmered in a tangy-sweet Catalina sauce—perfect weeknight meal.
- Quick and beginner-friendly recipe with minimal prep.
- Juicy chicken simmered in a flavorful Catalina sauce.
- Uses pantry staples for budget-friendly cooking.
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep throughout the week.
Ingredients for Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner
Chicken breasts: Fresh or thawed frozen chicken breasts work best. Skinless keeps it lean; bone-in takes longer to cook.Catalina dressing: Use your favorite brand or homemade Catalina salad dressing for authentic flavor.
- Chicken breasts: Fresh or thawed frozen chicken breasts work best. Skinless keeps it lean; bone-in takes longer to cook.
- Catalina dressing: Use your favorite brand or homemade Catalina salad dressing for authentic flavor.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for 3-4 minutes per side until golden (don’t cook through). Remove and set aside.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Add sauce and simmer: Lower heat to medium. Add Catalina dressing and chicken broth to skillet, stirring well. Return chicken to pan and spoon sauce over top.
Expert Tips for Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner
- Sear chicken well to lock in juices and deepen flavor.
- Keep the heat low when simmering to avoid drying out chicken.
- Use fresh herbs as garnish to add brightness and color.
Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner
Make Braised Catalina Chicken easily at home with this quick, comforting recipe. Juicy chicken simmered in a tangy-sweet Catalina sauce—perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Catalina dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Instructions
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken
- Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for 3-4 minutes per side until golden (don’t cook through). Remove and set aside.
- Add sauce and simmer: Lower heat to medium. Add Catalina dressing and chicken broth to skillet, stirring well. Return chicken to pan and spoon sauce over top.
- Braise: Cover skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and sauce thickens.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or shredded cheese if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Braised Catalina Chicken – Easy, Flavorful Homemade Dinner FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
You can mix ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of paprika as a homemade alternative.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Overcooking or high heat can dry out chicken. Sear first then simmer gently to retain moisture.
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