Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and tangy flavors to transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Protein
• Sauce Ingredients
• Thickening Agent
• How to Make Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 2: Add Chicken to Crock Pot
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
• How to Serve Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Over Rice
• With Vegetables
• In Tacos
• On a Salad
• As Sandwiches
• With Mashed Potatoes
• How to Perfect Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Reheating Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of meat?
• How do I make it spicier?
• Can I use homemade Catalina dressing?
• Is this recipe gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal fuss.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Catalina salad dressing and peach preserves creates a unique sweet and tangy taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over rice, pasta, or even in sandwiches for various meal options.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to family dinner.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Perfect for meal prep; just set it and forget it until dinnertime!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 Quart Crock Pot
• Small Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 6 Quart Crock Pot: A spacious slow cooker allows for even cooking of large batches, perfect for family meals.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before adding them to the chicken, ensuring a well-blended sauce.
• Whisk: Helps to mix ingredients smoothly without lumps, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Ingredients

For this delightful Crock Pot Catalina Chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Protein

• 3 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts (Approximately 6 Chicken Breasts)

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 Cup Catalina Salad Dressing
• 1/2 cup Peach Preserves
• 1 Packet Dry Onion Soup Mix
• 1 tsp Pepper

Thickening Agent

• 2 Tbsp Cornstarch
• 2 Tbsp Cold Water

How to Make Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Catalina salad dressing, peach preserves, onion soup mix, and pepper until well combined. This flavorful mixture will coat your chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Crock Pot

Place the boneless chicken breasts into your 6-quart crock pot. Pour the prepared Catalina dressing mixture over the top of the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safety.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through, serve your delicious Crock Pot Catalina Chicken over rice. Enjoy this sweet and tangy dish with your loved ones!

How to Serve Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is not only delicious on its own but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this sweet and tangy dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making for a satisfying meal.

With Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. This adds a healthful touch and balances the dish’s sweetness.

In Tacos

• Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a fun taco night twist.

On a Salad

• Use the chicken as a protein topping for a fresh salad. Combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing for a healthier option.

As Sandwiches

• Create scrumptious sandwiches using crusty bread or buns. Add some coleslaw for crunch and extra flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes to create a comforting meal. The creamy potatoes complement the tangy chicken perfectly.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, consider these handy tips:

• Choose quality chicken: Fresh boneless chicken breasts yield better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add more pepper or even garlic powder if you want extra flavor.
• Cook low and slow: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or onions for added texture and nutrition during cooking.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.
• Use leftovers wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them in salads or wraps throughout the week.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Pair your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken with these delightful sides that enhance its flavors while providing variety to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter complements the dish wonderfully.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the tanginess of the chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber and tomatoes offers a nutritious contrast.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs nicely with the chicken’s flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob provides a seasonal touch that everyone loves.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are an excellent side that can be flavored with herbs as desired.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and nutrients to your plate.
8. Fruit Salad: For dessert, consider serving a refreshing fruit salad that echoes the dish’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using frozen chicken – Frozen chicken may cook unevenly. Always use thawed chicken for consistent cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to mix in all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Not checking the temperature – Failing to check if the chicken reached 165 degrees F can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Overcrowding the crock pot – Stuffing too much into your crock pot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount of chicken.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Follow the recommended times closely for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before refrigerating to preserve freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning out servings for easy meal prep.

Reheating Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and reheat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Catalina Chicken:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs or even pork for a different flavor profile.

How do I make it spicier?

Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for added heat.

Can I use homemade Catalina dressing?

Absolutely! Homemade dressing will add a personal touch and enhance the flavors of your dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is not gluten-free due to onion soup mix. Look for gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is both sweet and tangy, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table. Its versatility allows for various customizations, such as adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Try it tonight, and you’ll see why it’s a family favorite!