Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors, transforming simple chicken into a culinary delight. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it incredibly versatile. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just mix ingredients, pop them in the crock pot, and let it do the work.
- Flavor Explosion: The mix of Catalina dressing and peach preserves creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and savory.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even salad for varied meal ideas.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike!
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious crock pot catalina chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-quart crock pot
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 6-quart crock pot: Ideal size for cooking large batches of chicken; allows even cooking.
- Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces without making a mess.
- Whisk: Ensures all ingredients blend smoothly for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For this delicious crock pot catalina chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Chicken
- 3 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts (Approximately 6 Chicken Breasts)
Sauce Mixture
- 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 Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Catalina Salad Dressing, Peach Preserves, Onion Soup Mix, and Pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
- Place the chicken breasts in your 6-quart crock pot.
- Pour the Catalina dressing mixture over the top of the chicken 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.
- Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before serving.
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 your sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once cooked, serve your crock pot catalina chicken over rice or your choice of side dish.
- Enjoy this flavorful meal with family and friends!
How to Serve Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this sweet and tangy chicken dish.
Over Rice
- This classic pairing allows the flavorful sauce to soak into the rice, creating a deliciously comforting meal.
With Vegetables
- Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate that adds color and nutrition.
In Tacos
- Shred the chicken and place it in soft tortillas with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
On Salad
- Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of greens with your favorite salad dressing, making for a refreshing option.
With Mashed Potatoes
- The creamy texture of mashed potatoes absorbs the sauce beautifully, adding richness to your meal.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
To get the most out of your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use quality chicken: Fresh boneless chicken breasts yield the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add more pepper or spices according to your taste preference for an extra kick.
- Cook low and slow: Cooking on low for 4-5 hours ensures tender chicken that falls apart easily.
- Thicken the sauce: Mixing cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the pot helps create a rich, thick sauce that clings well to the chicken.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious veggie adds a nice crunch and bright color.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A light alternative that adds protein and texture.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the tangy flavors of the dish.
- Baked Beans: Their sweetness pairs well with the savory aspects of the chicken.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These provide natural sweetness and a hearty side.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb substitute that’s light yet satisfying when served under the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful dish, but there are common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.
- Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the Catalina dressing can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
- Overcrowding the crock pot: Placing too much chicken in the pot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure perfect results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
- Not thickening the sauce: Forgetting to add cornstarch and water at the end will result in a watery sauce. Always thicken it up for better consistency.
- Serving without sides: Serving Crock Pot Catalina Chicken alone may miss out on a complete meal. Pair it with rice or vegetables for a balanced dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags.
- The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed while stirring until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken has sparked some queries among home cooks. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
How do I make Crock Pot Catalina Chicken spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the dressing mixture before pouring it over the chicken for some heat.
What sides pair well with Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. Roasted vegetables also complement this dish nicely.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just adjust cooking times accordingly. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Consider using low-fat Catalina dressing and reducing sugar by using less peach preserves or opting for a natural fruit spread.
How long does it take to cook on high?
Cooking on high typically takes about 2-2.5 hours until fully cooked through and tender.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful with its sweet and tangy profile. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or side dishes!
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a deliciously easy meal that brings together sweet and tangy flavors, transforming ordinary chicken into a culinary masterpiece. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it requires minimal prep time and allows you to enjoy a hearty dish without the fuss. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a family-friendly meal that everyone will love. Serve it over rice, pasta, or salad for versatile dining options. Experience the joy of cooking with this comforting recipe that promises flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts
- 1 Cup Catalina Salad Dressing
- 1/2 Cup Peach Preserves
- 1 Packet Dry Onion Soup Mix
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 Tbsp Cold Water (for thickening)
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Catalina dressing, peach preserves, onion soup mix, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in your 6-quart crock pot and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve over rice or your choice of side dish and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
