Catalina Chicken Recipe
This Sweet & Tangy Catalina Chicken is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, tender chicken baked in a rich, flavorful sauce made with Catalina dressing, apricot preserves, and a savory onion soup mix. Every bite is packed with sweet, smoky, and tangy goodness—perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Catalina dressing homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional for a spicy kick
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt and black pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Massage the seasonings into the chicken for maximum flavor.
- Sear the chicken in a pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and enhances the texture.
- Prepare the sauce by whisking together Catalina dressing, apricot preserves, onion soup mix, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over each piece. Make sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious flavor explosion!
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. If you love a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stove for a few minutes after baking to reduce and intensify the flavors!