Braised Catalina Chicken is a deliciously juicy and tender meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy homemade recipe combines sweet and tangy Catalina dressing with simple pantry staples for a rich, flavorful sauce that melts into the chicken. It’s beginner-friendly and comes together quickly, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Pair it with my Chicken Wellington or add a side of Blueberry Chia Jam for a delightful touch.
Why You'll Love Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Try this easy homemade Braised Catalina Chicken recipe for a juicy, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and quick to prepare.
- Quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners
- Uses pantry staples and minimal ingredients
- Rich, tangy, and sweet sauce with tender, juicy chicken
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients for Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Catalina salad dressing: Best to use a classic Catalina-style dressing; substitute with a mixture of ketchup and vinegar if unavailable.Chicken breasts: Use fresh or thawed boneless skinless breasts; thighs can be substituted for a juicier dish.
- Catalina salad dressing: Best to use a classic Catalina-style dressing; substitute with a mixture of ketchup and vinegar if unavailable.
- Chicken breasts: Use fresh or thawed boneless skinless breasts; thighs can be substituted for a juicier dish.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare and sear chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté vegetables and garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Add Catalina dressing and simmer: Pour the Catalina dressing into the skillet with sautéed veggies. Add honey if using. Stir and bring to a simmer.
Expert Tips for Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Don’t rush the braising; low and slow keeps chicken tender.
- Use leftover sauce to drizzle over rice or steamed veggies.
Braised Catalina Chicken - Easy Homemade Comfort Meal
Try this easy homemade Braised Catalina Chicken recipe for a juicy, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Toppings
- Sliced green onions
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken
- Prepare and sear chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables and garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Catalina dressing and simmer: Pour the Catalina dressing into the skillet with sautéed veggies. Add honey if using. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Braise chicken: Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
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 Homemade Comfort Meal FAQs
Yes, you can prepare and cook the chicken a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
If Catalina dressing isn’t available, mix ketchup, a splash of white vinegar, and a pinch of sugar to mimic its sweet and tangy flavor.
Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Dry chicken usually means it was overcooked or cooked on too high heat. Make sure to braise on low and check for doneness early.
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