Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Braised Catalina Chicken recipe. Known for its tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked to perfection in a savory sauce enriched with olives, lemons, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a perfect representation of rustic cooking. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for a family-friendly dinner, this one-pot meal not only brings comfort but also offers an easy way to enjoy healthy chicken dinner ideas.
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and olives, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits, and simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Return the chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side up. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Braise for 30-35 minutes until cooked through.
Remove the chicken and let it rest. Increase the heat to medium-high and reduce the sauce for another 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Serve the chicken with spooned sauce and vegetables over the top, garnished with fresh parsley.
