Catalina Grilled Chicken

A warm summer evening grilling in the backyard is the perfect moment to savor the delightful aroma of Catalina Grilled Chicken wafting through the air. This recipe combines just three ingredients for a flavorful marinade that perfectly infuses chicken breasts with tangy, sweet, and savory notes. It’s easy to make and always impresses; after just a short marinating time, you’ll have tender and juicy chicken ready to serve in about 20-30 minutes.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. It’s simple enough for novice cooks yet flavorful enough to satisfy any palate. You can make the marinade ahead of time; the chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to two hours for optimal flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade transforms ordinary chicken into an explosion of flavor.
• Grilling gives the chicken a smoky char that enhances its taste.
• It’s quick, taking only about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
• A single marinade works across various dishes, adding versatility to your meals.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious grilled chicken:

For the Marinade

• 1 cup Catalina dressing
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar

For the Chicken

• 4 medium chicken breasts

Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Catalina dressing can be swapped for Italian dressing.
• Use honey instead of brown sugar.
• Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for a richer flavor.

How to Make It

Let’s get grilling with these simple steps!

Mix the marinade

In a bowl, mix together the Catalina dressing, soy sauce, and brown sugar to create the marinade.

Marinate the chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over the chicken.

Seal and chill

Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat the grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.

Remove the chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade to avoid contamination.

Grill the chicken

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Let it rest

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Yes, the cooked chicken freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium power for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the grill is preheated to get a nice sear on the chicken.
• Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for the correct internal temperature for optimal doneness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
• Enjoy alongside rice or quinoa for a hearty side.