Viral Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe

Viral Dinner Comfort Food
Viral Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe

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Viral Braised Catalina Chicken Recipe

Viral Braised Catalina Chicken

Tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs braised to perfection in a sweet, tangy, and smoky homemade Catalina sauce.

★★★★★ 4.9 / 5 (78 reviews)
Prep Time15 Mins
Cook Time1 Hour 10 Mins
Total Time1 Hour 25 Mins

Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • To taste salt and black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional pinch cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350°F. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Sear chicken skin side down until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  2. 2
    In a bowl, whisk together all Catalina sauce ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed.
  3. 3
    Pour half the sauce into the Dutch oven. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan skin side up. Pour the remaining sauce over the top. Cover with lid or foil.
  4. 4
    Transfer to the oven and bake covered for 45 minutes. Remove the lid and bake another 20 to 25 minutes uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize.
  5. 5
    Serve hot with a spoonful of sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts? Yes, you can use boneless portions, but bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat exceptionally juicy during the long braising process. If using chicken breasts, reduce the covered baking time by 15-20 minutes to prevent the white meat from drying out.
What is the secret to getting a perfectly thick, caramelized Catalina lacquer on the skin? Don't skip the uncovered baking stage! Removing the lid or foil for the final 20 to 25 minutes allows the moisture to escape, reducing the apple cider vinegar and honey down into a thick, concentrated sticky glaze that adheres beautifully to the seared chicken skin.
Can I prepare the Catalina sauce ahead of time? Absolutely. You can whisk the ketchup, vinegar, honey, spices, and sauces together up to a week in advance. Store it in a sealed mason jar in the refrigerator, and simply give it a quick shake before pouring it into your braising pan.

Emma

Everyday Home Cooking

Emma shares simple, comforting meals perfect for everyday family cooking.

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