Catalina Wings

Catalina Wings are a delicious and versatile dish that can elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a family dinner, or just craving something flavorful, these wings are sure to impress. The unique sauce combines sweet and tangy flavors, making it perfect not only for chicken but also as a dressing for salads or dipping sauce for veggies. Enjoy the crunchy texture and mouth-watering taste that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, Catalina Wings can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it a hassle-free choice for busy cooks.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Catalina dressing, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the taste of the chicken wings.
• Versatile Use: This sauce works well beyond wings; it can be used on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a zesty salad dressing.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers—everyone loves the sweet and savory flavor!
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice levels according to your preference by adding more brown sugar or hot sauce.

Tools and Preparation

For preparing these Catalina Wings, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for evenly cooking the wings without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure every wing is coated with flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee accurate measurements for consistent results in your wing marinade.
• Cooking brush: Helps apply sauce evenly on the wings during cooking for maximum flavor absorption.

Ingredients

The sauce on these Catalina wings is great for more than wings.

For the Chicken Wings

• 3-4 pounds chicken wings
• 3/4 cup Catalina salad dressing (French can also be used)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Catalina Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your wings cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 3/4 cup Catalina salad dressing
2. 3 tablespoons brown sugar
3. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
4. 2 tablespoons ketchup
5. 2 teaspoons garlic powder
6. 1 teaspoon onion powder
7. 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Stir well until all ingredients are fully blended.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

Place the chicken wings in a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over them and toss until each wing is thoroughly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Spread the marinated wings evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Enjoy your flavorful Catalina Wings as an appetizer or main dish!

How to Serve Catalina Wings

These Catalina wings are not just delicious on their own; they can be paired with various sides and dips for a complete meal. Whether it’s a game day snack or a family dinner, here are some great serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Celery sticks – They provide a crunchy contrast and are perfect for dipping.
• Carrot sticks – Sweet and crunchy, carrots add a refreshing touch to your plate.

Dips for Extra Flavor

• Ranch dressing – A classic choice that complements the sweetness of the Catalina sauce.
• Blue cheese dressing – For those who enjoy a tangy kick with their wings.

Serve with Grains

• Rice pilaf – Fluffy rice adds substance and balances the flavors of the wings.
• Quinoa salad – A nutritious option that pairs well with the savory wings.

Create a Wing Platter

• Mixed platter with different sauces – Offer an assortment of sauces for guests to choose from, making it interactive.

How to Perfect Catalina Wings

To ensure your Catalina wings turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture, making your dish unforgettable.

• Marinate longer – Allowing the wings to marinate for at least 2 hours helps deepen the flavor.
• Use a high oven temperature – Cooking at 425°F (220°C) ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
• Flip halfway through cooking – Turning the wings allows even browning and crispiness on all sides.
• Broil for extra crispiness – If you like them extra crispy, broil them for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
• Serve immediately – Wings taste best fresh out of the oven while they are still hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Catalina Wings

Pairing side dishes with your Catalina wings can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement these tasty treats.

1. Coleslaw – A creamy slaw adds crunch and balances out the flavors of the wings.
2. Sweet potato fries – Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy sauce of the wings.
3. Cornbread – Fluffy cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
4. Potato salad – Creamy potatoes offer a satisfying side that contrasts nicely with spicy wings.
5. Macaroni salad – This chilled dish is refreshing and adds creaminess that works well with chicken.
6. Grilled corn on the cob – Charred corn brings a sweet element that enhances each bite of wing.
7. Garlic breadsticks – Soft breadsticks offer another way to enjoy dipping sauces alongside your wings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid using too much sauce. Over-saturating the wings can make them soggy. Use the sauce moderately for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t skip marinating time. Failing to let the wings soak in the marinade reduces flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes for best results.
• Be cautious of high cooking temperatures. Cooking wings too quickly can lead to uneven doneness. Use moderate heat to ensure thorough cooking.
• Remember to check wing doneness. Biting into undercooked chicken is a risk. Ensure wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Avoid neglecting the sauce after cooking. The sauce on Catalina wings enhances flavor, so consider adding more right before serving for a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Catalina wings can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Catalina Wings

• Place wings in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Catalina Wings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Catalina Wings?

Catalina wings are chicken wings coated in a sweet and tangy marinade made with Catalina salad dressing, perfect for parties or game day.

How do I make the sauce for Catalina Wings?

The sauce includes Catalina dressing, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper mixed together before marinating the wings.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken wings, feel free to substitute with turkey or beef pieces if desired.

How spicy are Catalina Wings?

The spice level is mild; however, you can add hot sauce or chili powder if you prefer spicier flavors in your Catalina wings.

Can I grill Catalina Wings?

Absolutely! These wings can also be grilled; just ensure they are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside.

Final Thoughts

Catalina Wings offer a delicious mix of sweet and tangy flavors that will please any crowd. They are versatile enough for various occasions and can easily be customized with spices or additional ingredients. Give this recipe a try and impress your family with these delightful treats!

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Catalina Wings

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Catalina Wings are a delightful twist on traditional chicken wings, perfectly suited for any gathering or casual meal. These irresistible bites are coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from Catalina dressing, brown sugar, and spices, delivering a flavor explosion that will keep your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a game night or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these baked wings offer a crunchy texture and mouth-watering taste without the hassle.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 pounds chicken wings
• 3/4 cup Catalina salad dressing
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Catalina dressing, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat thoroughly.
4. Spread the marinated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 wing (approx. 30g)
• Calories: 112
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 435mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 42mg

Keywords: For deeper flavor, marinate the wings for at least 2 hours before baking. To achieve extra crispiness, broil the wings for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar or spice levels with hot sauce.