Ever had chicken simmering in a sweet and tangy sauce that practically sings to your taste buds?
This Braised Catalina Chicken is a dish that’ll have your family asking for seconds (or thirds)! It’s all about easy cooking with minimal cleanup, perfect for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests. Seriously, who doesn’t love a dish where you can toss everything in a pan and let it work its magic?
Why Make This Recipe
First off, this meal is a one-pan wonder. Less fuss means more time to enjoy your evening. Secondly, the ingredients are super affordable, so you won’t need to break the bank for a delicious homemade meal. And let’s be honest, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will devour. Who knew chicken could be this fun?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- Chicken thighs (the juicy kind, please!)
- Catalina dressing (the magic ingredient)
- Pineapple (fresh or canned, your call)
- Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper (pick your favorites)
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides until golden.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the Catalina dressing and pineapple.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
How to Make Braised Catalina Chicken (Overview)
Making this dish is as easy as pie — or should I say, as easy as chicken? Just get your skillet sizzling, brown those thighs like a pro, and then let them relax in a delicious mixture of Catalina dressing and pineapple. Here’s a pro tip: Don’t skip letting it simmer! That’s where the magic happens, turning ordinary into extraordinary!
How to Serve Braised Catalina Chicken
Serve this vibrant dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a colorful medley of steamed veggies. Picture this: golden chicken glistening in that tangy sauce, with pineapple adding a pop of tropical color. The aroma? Simply irresistible! If you want to impress, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for that #gourmet touch. 🌿
How to Store Braised Catalina Chicken
This beauty keeps well! Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you have leftovers (which we highly doubt), you can freeze it for up to 3 months. For reheating, just pop it in the microwave or warm it up gently on the stovetop. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make Braised Catalina Chicken
- Add some heat: Try tossing in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! 🌶️
- Give it a twist: Swap the chicken thighs for drumsticks or even tofu for a veggie version.
- Think ahead: Marinate the chicken in Catalina dressing overnight for deeper flavor. Trust me; it’s worth it!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding teriyaki sauce along with the Catalina dressing for an Asian twist. Or, go fully plant-based and replace the chicken with chickpeas for a delightful vegan dish. The options are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yep, you can! Just be careful not to overcook them; they will dry out faster than thighs.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s a great meal prep option. Just reheat when you’re ready to dive in.
3. What else can I serve with this?
Mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even a crisp salad would be fantastic sides. Get creative!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Braised Catalina Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs Use juicy chicken thighs for best results.
- 1 cup Catalina dressing This is the magic ingredient.
- 1 cup Pineapple Fresh or canned, as per your preference.
- to taste Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper Choose your favorite spices.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides until golden.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the Catalina dressing and pineapple.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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