Catalina Grilled Chicken

Grilling on a warm evening brings a sizzling excitement, and nothing embodies that better than Catalina Grilled Chicken. This recipe takes just about an hour from start to finish, with the hands-on time being minimal. The secret works in the marinade, where Catalina dressing and soy sauce meld to create a flavorful delight that infuses each bite of chicken.

This dish is perfect for families looking to jazz up weeknight dinners or for those hosting backyard barbecues. You can make the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender.
• Grilling gives it a delicious charred flavor.
• It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• A few simple ingredients create a mouthwatering dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to get started.

For the Marinade

• 1 cup Catalina dressing
• 1/4 cup soy sauce

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Note: Use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Catalina dressing can be swapped for Italian dressing.
• Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs for more flavor.
• Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari for gluten-free.

How to Make It

Begin by preparing the chicken with the flavorful marinade.

Combine

In a mixing bowl, combine Catalina dressing and soy sauce. This creates a tangy, savory marinade perfect for the chicken.

Marinate

Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is well coated for maximum flavor.

Refrigerate

Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. This allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors from the marinade.

Preheat

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will give your chicken those beautiful sear marks.

Grill

Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Rest

Let rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist chicken.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the chicken can become dry once thawed.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• For an extra layer of flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled chicken for a zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with rice or quinoa to soak up extra marinade.
• Great for summer cookouts or family gatherings.