If you're looking to shake up your weeknight dinner rotation with a dish that's big on flavor but low on effort, Catalina Chicken is the perfect recipe. Sweet, tangy, and savory, this family favorite is made with just a handful of ingredients and comes together in no time.
Whether you're entertaining guests or prepping dinner for a busy weeknight, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.
What Is Catalina Chicken?
Catalina Chicken is a simple baked chicken recipe that's all about its signature sauce. The sauce combines Catalina salad dressing with pantry staples like apricot preserves and onion soup mix. Together, they create a glossy, flavor-packed glaze that keeps the chicken tender and juicy. This dish is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that appeal to kids and adults alike.
The best part? It requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy families or anyone who wants to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Catalina Chicken is bound to become a favorite in your household:
- Few Ingredients – Made with just four main ingredients.
- Quick Preparation – Only 10 minutes of prep time before the oven does the rest.
- Family-Friendly – The slightly sweet and tangy flavors appeal to all ages.
- Versatile – Pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors intensify overnight, making it just as tasty the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Catalina Chicken, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6-8 chicken thighs, if preferred)
- 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves (or substitute with peach preserves for a twist)
- 1 packet of dry onion soup mix
Optional garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color
- Sesame seeds for a subtle crunch
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Catalina dressing, apricot preserves, and onion soup mix. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil, spoon additional sauce over the chicken, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds, if desired. Spoon extra sauce from the pan over the chicken for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Catalina Chicken
- Choose the Right Cut – Boneless chicken thighs are great for an extra juicy option, but chicken breasts work just as well.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor – If you have time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 1-2 hours before baking.
- Double the Sauce – Love saucier dishes? Double the sauce ingredients to have plenty for drizzling over rice or veggies.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What to Serve with Catalina Chicken
Catalina Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete the meal:
- Rice or Quinoa – The sweet and tangy sauce tastes amazing spooned over fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or green beans roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper make the perfect healthy accompaniment.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up all the saucy goodness.
- Simple Salad – Keep it light with a side salad of leafy greens and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Catalina Chicken stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.
- Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – Freeze for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers and label with the date.
- Reheating – Reheat in the microwave or oven, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Why Catalina Chicken Deserves a Spot on Your Dinner Table
Catalina Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a family-favorite meal that delivers rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort. If you’re new to cooking or simply want a dish that’s stress-free but impressive, Catalina Chicken is the answer. With its sweet and tangy glaze and juicy chicken, this recipe is guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Give it a try and add your own spin to it! Substitutions like peach preserves or fresh herbs can make Catalina Chicken feel like an entirely new dish every time.
Looking for more easy, family-friendly recipes? Bookmark this one and come back often—we've got plenty more flavorful ideas in store for you!
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