Braised Catalina Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken thighs braised in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. The sauce’s rich texture clings beautifully to the tender chicken, making each bite a delight. For a full meal, pair it with my Chicken Wellington recipe that’s also family-friendly and easy to make.
Why You'll Love Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce
Try this easy Braised Catalina Chicken recipe perfect for weeknights. Juicy chicken simmered in a tangy tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness.
- Juicy, tender chicken cooked in a savory tomato and bell pepper sauce
- Quick and easy braising method perfect for beginner home cooks
- Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients
- Family-friendly dinner idea with comforting flavors
Ingredients for Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce
Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on gives the best flavor and crispy skin; boneless can be used but reduce cooking time slightly.Catalina dressing: Use your favorite bottled Catalina dressing for authentic flavor or substitute with a mix of ketchup, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for a homemade version.
- Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on gives the best flavor and crispy skin; boneless can be used but reduce cooking time slightly.
- Catalina dressing: Use your favorite bottled Catalina dressing for authentic flavor or substitute with a mix of ketchup, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for a homemade version.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prep and season chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder on all sides.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 3 minutes more. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Sauté veggies and deglaze: In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits.
Expert Tips for Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce
- Pat chicken dry before searing for crispy skin.
- Do not overcrowd pan when searing chicken to get golden crust.
- Simmer on low heat to keep chicken tender and sauce thick.
Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce
Try this easy Braised Catalina Chicken recipe perfect for weeknights. Juicy chicken simmered in a tangy tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup Catalina dressing (bottled or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken
- Prep and season chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder on all sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 3 minutes more. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté veggies and deglaze: In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add sauce and braise: Stir in diced tomatoes, Catalina dressing, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Return chicken to skillet, skin side up. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
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 Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce FAQs
Yes, this dish reheats very well and can be made a day in advance to let flavors meld.
You can mix equal parts ketchup and apple cider vinegar with a pinch of sugar for a quick homemade substitute.
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Overcooking or too high heat can dry the chicken; be sure to simmer gently and monitor cooking time closely.
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Before You Go
If you try this Braised Catalina Chicken Easy Weeknight Recipe with Flavorful Sauce, I'd love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.