Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Crock pot catalina chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors to transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, requiring minimal effort and time. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken is tender and packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have dinner ready with little fuss.
- Flavorful Dish: The sweet peach preserves and zesty Catalina dressing create a unique taste that will impress your family and friends.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside veggies for a complete meal that suits various palates.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-quart crock pot
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 6-quart crock pot: Ideal size for cooking larger portions, perfect for family meals or leftovers.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly before adding them to the crock pot.
Ingredients
Crock pot catalina chicken is sweet and tangy and the combination turns chicken into something special. The crockpot makes dinner a breeze.
For the Chicken
- 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 until well combined.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken in a 6-quart crock pot. Pour the Catalina dressing mixture over the top of the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and cold water. Stir this mixture into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken up your sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, serve your delicious Crock Pot Catalina Chicken over rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this flavorful meal!
How to Serve Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you prefer a hearty meal or something lighter, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.
In Tacos
- Shred the chicken and serve it in soft or hard taco shells. Top with fresh avocado, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of extra Catalina dressing for added flavor.
With Salad
- Pair the chicken with a crisp garden salad. The freshness of the greens complements the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
On a Sandwich
- Use the shredded chicken as a filling for sandwiches or buns. Add slices of cheese and some pickles for an extra crunch.
With Vegetables
- Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables to add color and nutrition to your plate. Broccoli or green beans work well with this dish.
As a Wrap
- Roll the chicken in a tortilla with some spinach and cheese for a quick and easy wrap. It’s perfect for lunch on the go!
How to Perfect Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
To ensure your Crock Pot Catalina Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
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Use quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will yield better flavor and texture.
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Adjust cooking time: Depending on your crock pot model, cooking times may vary. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs like garlic powder or thyme for more depth in flavor.
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Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken pairs well with several side dishes that complement its sweet and tangy profile. Here are some top choices:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that balances the flavors of the chicken.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a slight crunch against the tender chicken.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the dish’s sweetness; grill or boil it for an easy side.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes makes for a refreshing contrast to this dish.
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Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and its tanginess pairs nicely with the sweetness of the chicken.
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Baked Beans: A hearty side of baked beans brings warmth and richness that complements the flavors well.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate, making it an irresistible addition!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness aligns beautifully with Crock Pot Catalina Chicken while also adding vibrant color to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, it’s easy to make minor errors that can affect the dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong chicken cut: Always choose boneless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. Other cuts may not cook evenly in the crock pot.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add pepper or other seasonings. These enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Overcrowding the crock pot: Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation. If your pot is too full, cooking times may vary, and chicken may not cook properly.
- Not checking the temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Investing in a meat thermometer can help prevent undercooking.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on high or low affects texture and moisture. Follow recommended times for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for maximum flavor.
Reheating Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
- Microwave: Use microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Catalina Chicken to help you get the most from this recipe.
What is Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a sweet and tangy dish made by slow cooking chicken breasts with Catalina dressing and peach preserves.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken but adjust the cooking time accordingly. It may take longer to reach safety temperature.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I customize Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to enhance flavor and nutrition!
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different ingredients to suit your taste. Try it tonight and experience the sweet and tangy goodness that makes this dish a family favorite!
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings together sweet and tangy flavors, transforming simple chicken breasts into a scrumptious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This effortless recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers tender, flavorful chicken every time, thanks to slow cooking. The unique combination of Catalina dressing and peach preserves creates a mouthwatering sauce that pairs beautifully with rice, tacos, or salads. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this versatile dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
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
- 2 Tbsp Cold Water
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Catalina dressing, peach preserves, onion soup mix, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken in a 6-quart crock pot and pour the sauce over it, ensuring even coating.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the crock pot to thicken the sauce.
- Once cooked, serve over rice or your favorite side dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/6 of recipe (about 200g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
