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There’s something incredibly satisfying about the smell of chicken braising in the oven, and this Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken takes that to a whole new level! Picture this: fork-tender chicken soaking up a rich, homemade sauce that perfectly balances the sweetness of red bell peppers with savory mushrooms and a hint of spice. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion.

After a long day, there’s nothing I crave more than a comforting meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a lifesaver—it uses wholesome ingredients and skips the processed dressings, ensuring a truly homemade touch. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is bound to be the star of your dinner table. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure that promises laughter, joy, and delicious memories!

Why is Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken a Must-Try?

Comforting Family Meal: This dish brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, making it an ultimate comfort food. Homemade Sauce: Create a rich, flavorful sauce from scratch, free from processed ingredients. Versatile Options: Customize with chicken thighs or add extra veggies for a twist. Easy to Prepare: Step-by-step instructions make this recipe perfect, even for busy nights. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Skinless Boneless Chicken Breasts – Main protein; use thighs for a richer flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust for dietary preferences.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth; substitute white pepper for a milder taste.

For the Sauce
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness; can substitute with canola oil.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides creaminess; use ghee for a dairy-free option.
• Mushrooms (Quartered) – Adds umami flavor; can substitute sliced cremini or button mushrooms.
• Red Bell Peppers (Strips) – Brings sweetness and color; substitute with yellow bell peppers if desired.
• Sweet Onion (Diced) – Offers sweetness and depth; use yellow onions or shallots as alternatives.
• Chicken Broth – Base for the sauce; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
• Ketchup – Contributes to sweetness and tang; use a homemade or low-sugar version if preferred.
• Tomato Paste – Adds depth; can omit for less richness.
• Honey – Natural sweetener; maple syrup can be a suitable substitute.
• White Wine Vinegar – Balances sweetness; apple cider vinegar works well as an alternative.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth; can be omitted for a gluten-free option.
• Smoked Paprika – Provides smokiness; regular paprika is a milder substitute.
• Chili Powder – Introduces subtle heat; adjust to taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Aids in thickening the sauce; use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray. This step ensures nothing sticks and your chicken comes out beautifully.
Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. In a skillet, brown the chicken in 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for about 5 minutes on each side until golden. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Sauté the quartered mushrooms in the same skillet for about 2 minutes until they turn golden. This enhances their umami flavor. Once cooked, transfer them to the baking dish with the chicken.
Cook the diced sweet onion in the remaining olive oil in the skillet for approximately 5 minutes until tender. This step brings out the sweetness in the onions, adding depth to the sauce.
Whisk together the chicken broth, ketchup, tomato paste, honey, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder in a bowl. Add flour to the sautéed onions, cooking for another minute before combining this with the broth mixture. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Bake for 35-45 minutes, basting halfway through to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Uncover, baste, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the bell peppers are caramelized and the sauce is bubbling joyfully.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the rich, tangy flavors of your chicken masterpiece.

Fluffy Rice: Serve over a bed of rice to absorb the luscious sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying base that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Crispy Garlic Bread: A crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a medley of seasonal roasted vegetables for a pop of color and nutrition. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy chicken and enhances the overall presentation.
Creamy Polenta: Smooth and creamy polenta provides a comforting earthy base that complements the savory notes of the chicken, making each bite a warm hug.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright, vibrant, and slightly crunchy, steamed green beans bring freshness and a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the braised chicken.
Side Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing element, cleansing the palate between bites.
Chardonnay: Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay to enhance the meal’s flavors. Its buttery notes and acidity beautifully complement the savory chicken.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, consider a rich chocolate mousse. Its silky texture and bittersweet flavor will make for a delightful end to your meal.
Homemade Lemonade: A refreshing homemade lemonade will brighten your palate and balance the dish’s sweetness with its zesty notes.

Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish, adapting flavors to suit your taste buds!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, juicier flavor that enhances the dish’s comfort food qualities.
Veggie Additions: Toss in diced carrots or zucchini during the braising process for a fresh, nutritious boost that adds color and texture.
Bell Pepper Mix: Use a variety of bell peppers—red, yellow, and orange—to create a vibrant, sweet flavor palette that mixes beautifully with the sauce.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic experience that deepens the overall flavor profile.
Smoky Twist: Replace smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a hint of smokiness along with added heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level!
Citrus Kick: Stir in some orange zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
Gluten-Free Starch: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch as a thickener for your sauce, ensuring you can enjoy this recipe without gluten.
Sweetness Variations: If honey isn’t your favorite, try using agave syrup or brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness that complements the tangy elements.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while ensuring your homemade sauce retains its deliciousness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.

Storage Tip: Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge or freezer to maintain the quality and taste of your flavorful chicken!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken and sauce components up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of browning the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms and onions, then combine them with the sauce. Cool and refrigerate everything in an airtight container. To maintain that delicious flavor and texture, make sure to let the dish sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat the oven, pour the sauce over the chicken, cover with foil, and bake as directed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken

Use Bone-In Thighs: For a richer, more flavorful dish, opt for bone-in thighs instead of breasts, enhancing the comfort of your meal.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper for the chicken; proper seasoning enhances the sweet and tangy flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Watch the Browning: A good sear involves patience; let the chicken release naturally in the pan to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the honey and chili powder based on your family’s taste preferences, making it as sweet or spicy as you like.
Thickening Tips: If your sauce isn’t thickening enough, create a slurry with cornstarch and water, and stir it in gradually—this helps achieve the desired consistency.
Leftover Magic: Use leftover Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken in sandwiches or salads for a quick and delicious meal, sparking new inspiration!

Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using skinless boneless chicken breasts for this Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken, but for richer flavor, you can also use boneless thighs. The thighs will add some extra juiciness and depth to the dish!

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers tasty, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken broth if needed to keep the sauce from drying out.

Can I freeze Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove over low heat.

Why isn’t my sauce thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, you can create a cornstarch slurry to help. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then gradually stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook for another minute or so until it reaches your preferred consistency!

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Definitely! If you’re serving this dish to someone with gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Additionally, using ghee in place of butter makes it dairy-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially sauces like Worcestershire.

What can I serve with this dish?
I often serve Sweet and Tangy Braised Catalina Chicken over a bed of rice, noodles, or couscous to soak up that wonderful sauce. I recommend adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.