Crock pot catalina chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that elevate simple chicken to an extraordinary meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, as it requires minimal prep time and allows the crockpot to do all the work. You’ll love how easy it is to serve up a crowd-pleasing dinner with just a few ingredients!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: With the crockpot, you can set it and forget it! Simply add your ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of Catalina salad dressing and peach preserves creates a uniquely sweet and tangy sauce that your family will adore.
Versatile Dish: Serve this chicken over rice, pasta, or even in sandwiches; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Healthy Option: Packed with protein, this recipe offers a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste, making it an easy choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

6-quart crock pot
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

6-quart crock pot: Ideal for making larger meals, this size ensures even cooking and can accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and seasonings before adding them to the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly without clumps, giving you a well-mixed sauce for your chicken.

Ingredients

Crock pot catalina chicken is sweet and tangy and the combination turns chicken into something special. The crockpot makes dinner a breeze.

Main Ingredients

3 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts (Approximately 6 Chicken Breasts)
1 Cup Catalina Salad Dressing
1/2 cup Peach Preserves
1 Packet Dry Onion Soup Mix
1 tsp Pepper
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. This mixture will create a delightful sauce that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Crock Pot

Place the boneless chicken breasts in your 6-quart crock pot. Pour the prepared Catalina dressing mixture over the top, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.

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. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Mix the cornstarch and cold water together in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, serve your delicious crock pot catalina chicken over rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy every bite of this tasty meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Over Rice

Serve the chicken over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the sweet and tangy sauce.

With Vegetables

Pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious and colorful plate.

In Tacos

Use the chicken as a filling for soft or hard shell tacos, adding toppings like salsa and avocado for extra flavor.

On a Salad

Shred the cooked chicken and toss it on a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings and dressing for a light meal.

With Cornbread

Serve alongside warm cornbread to add a comforting touch to your meal.

As Sandwiches

Use the shredded chicken to make delicious sandwiches, complemented by lettuce, tomato, and your choice of condiments.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, follow these essential tips.

Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your crock pot’s settings, adjust the cooking time slightly. Each crock pot can vary in temperature.
Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding sliced bell peppers or onions for an added depth of flavor during cooking.
Thicken Sauce Effectively: Ensure you mix the cornstarch thoroughly into the cold water before adding it to avoid clumps in your sauce.
Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve the chicken right after it’s done cooking while it’s still hot and juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken complements many side dishes that enhance its sweet and tangy flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and balance to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced veggies offers a healthy contrast that complements the dish well.
Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide an excellent partner with their savory flavors harmonizing nicely with the chicken.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus adds an elegant touch while contributing vibrant color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a fun finger food that enhances any summer meal featuring this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Catalina Chicken can lead to some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch for:

Not Measuring Ingredients – Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor. Use a measuring cup for the dressing and preserves.
Skipping the Thickeners – If you skip the cornstarch mixture, your sauce may be too watery. Always mix in cornstarch during the last half hour of cooking.
Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking too long can dry out your chicken. Stick to the recommended times for juicy results.
Ignoring Internal Temperature – Always check that chicken reaches 165°F for safety. Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness.
Using Low-Quality Dressing – The quality of your Catalina dressing affects taste. Choose a brand you enjoy or make your own.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.
Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a savory dish made with boneless chicken breasts cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce featuring Catalina dressing and peach preserves.

How can I customize my Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor. Experiment with different fruit preserves as well!

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly. They may need an extra hour on low.

What should I serve with Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes. Steamed vegetables also make a great side!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken combines sweetness and tanginess, making it an irresistible dinner option. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy this easy meal that will surely become a family favorite!

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Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make dish requires minimal prep time and lets the slow cooker do all the work. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dinner that your family will love. The combination of Catalina salad dressing and peach preserves results in a unique sauce that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or sandwiches.

Ingredients

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Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the Catalina salad dressing, peach preserves, onion soup mix, and pepper to create the sauce.
Place boneless chicken breasts in a 6-quart crock pot and pour the sauce over them, ensuring even coating.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the crock pot to thicken the sauce.
Serve hot over rice or your choice of side dishes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American