Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken

Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken is a unique and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, a rich, tangy-sweet sauce, and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is made with Catalina dressing, a retro classic that’s known for its distinctively sweet and slightly zesty flavor. Combined with the juicy chicken and savory veggies, the result is a comforting and memorable dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potluck events.

Catalina Chicken has been a favorite in American home kitchens since the 1970s, beloved for its easy preparation and bold flavor. Catalina dressing, typically made with tomato puree, vinegar, sugar, and spices, forms the base of the sauce. As the chicken and vegetables simmer, they absorb the sweetness and tanginess, creating a deep, delicious flavor that’s both comforting and nostalgic.

In this guide, we’ll go through each step to make a delicious Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken at home, along with tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions to elevate this dish and make it truly your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold, layered flavors that are both sweet and savory. You’ll love how the chicken becomes tender and flavorful after being braised in the Catalina sauce. The dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and its flavor improves with time, making it perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—serve it with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re nostalgic for retro dishes or just love a good comfort meal, Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and vegetables

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 16g

Ingredients

For the Catalina Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Catalina Sauce

• 1 cup Catalina dressing (store-bought or homemade, see below for recipe)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for additional tanginess)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms for added depth
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish

Homemade Catalina Dressing (if preferred)

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Slice the onion and bell peppers, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat Oil in a Pan: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. The goal here is to brown the chicken without fully cooking it, which will help lock in the juices and add flavor. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Bell Peppers: In the same pan, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and caramelize slightly.
2. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Prepare the Catalina Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Catalina dressing, chicken broth, brown sugar (if using), apple cider vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine.
2. Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference by adding more brown sugar or vinegar if needed.

Step 5: Braise the Chicken

1. Return Chicken to the Pan: Place the seared chicken back into the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Pour the Catalina Sauce Over: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is coated.
3. Simmer and Braise: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a little water or broth if the sauce reduces too quickly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy with a side of vegetables.

Ingredient Background

The star of this dish, Catalina dressing, is a tangy-sweet tomato-based dressing that adds both flavor and moisture to the dish. Chicken breasts or thighs absorb the sweet and tangy flavors as they braise. Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes bring a balance of sweetness and acidity, adding texture and color. Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the savory profile, while brown sugar and vinegar add depth to the sauce. If using homemade dressing, the blend of ketchup, vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce closely mimics the classic Catalina flavor.

Technique Tips

• Sear the Chicken First: Searing locks in juices and adds a caramelized flavor that elevates the dish.
• Simmer Slowly: Braising the chicken over low heat allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken without burning.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables add a nice contrast to the sweet and tangy sauce. Avoid canned or frozen vegetables for the best texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Catalina Chicken Casserole: Layer the chicken and vegetables in a baking dish, pour the sauce over, and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.
• Catalina Chicken Stir-Fry: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, cook with vegetables, and toss in the Catalina sauce for a quicker stir-fry version.
• Catalina Chicken Wraps: Shred the cooked chicken and serve in warm tortillas with lettuce and avocado for a delicious wrap.

Additional Tips for Success

• Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: The balance of sweet and tangy is key to this dish. Adjust the amount of brown sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
• Watch the Sauce: Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from burning, especially if it’s thickening quickly.
• Use High-Quality Catalina Dressing: If using store-bought dressing, choose a good-quality brand, as it impacts the flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Catalina Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
• Catalina Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Increase cooking time as needed.
• Vegan Catalina Chickpeas: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover Catalina Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Homemade Catalina Dressing: Making your own Catalina dressing allows you to control the amount of sugar and oil.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added fiber and nutrients.
• Use Skinless, Boneless Chicken Thighs: Thighs provide a rich flavor without adding a lot of extra fat.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve Catalina Chicken family-style, straight from the skillet, with a side of mashed potatoes and a green salad.
• Potluck Dish: This dish travels well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
• Meal Prep: Catalina Chicken is ideal for meal prep. Portion into containers with rice and vegetables for a ready-to-eat lunch or dinner.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A large skillet or Dutch oven is perfect for braising, as it distributes heat evenly and allows the sauce to simmer slowly.
• Tongs: Tongs are useful for handling the chicken and turning it as it cooks.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes slicing vegetables and chicken easier and ensures even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

2. Can I make Catalina dressing from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade Catalina dressing with ketchup, vinegar, honey, olive oil, and seasonings can add a fresh touch to the dish.

3. How do I make Catalina Chicken less sweet?
Use less brown sugar or honey, and increase the vinegar to balance the sweetness.

4. What can I serve with Catalina Chicken?
Catalina Chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Add a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh cherry tomatoes are not available.

6. Is Catalina Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free if you use a gluten-free Catalina dressing. Double-check all ingredients if you have specific dietary needs.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
Add a little extra broth or water as the sauce simmers if it starts to reduce too quickly.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Catalina Chicken can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for leftovers.

Conclusion

Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines retro charm with modern appeal. With juicy chicken braised in a rich Catalina sauce and colorful vegetables, this recipe is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The sweet and tangy sauce, combined with tender chicken and sautéed vegetables, makes for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and enjoy the nostalgic flavors of this beloved classic. Whether you’re cooking for your family or sharing with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy!

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