Crock Pot Catalina Chicken
Introduction
With more than ten years of professional kitchen experience, I can confidently say that some of the most reliable recipes come from old-school slow cooker cooking. Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is one of those recipes that has stood the test of time for a reason. It is simple, dependable, and always satisfying.
I first encountered this recipe years ago when working with home cooks who valued flavor and convenience equally. The beauty of this dish is how a few basic ingredients transform into a rich, glossy sauce while the chicken becomes fork-tender. You do not need advanced skills, fancy spices, or complicated steps. Just a slow cooker and a little patience.
Ingredients
• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• ½ cup cranberry sauce or apricot preserves
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
Essential Ingredients
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken relies on a small number of ingredients that work perfectly together. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs serve as the protein base and become incredibly tender as they cook slowly. Catalina salad dressing brings tangy sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Onion soup mix adds savory notes and enhances the overall taste without extra seasoning. A small amount of cranberry sauce or apricot preserves is often added to balance the tanginess with subtle sweetness. These ingredients combine during slow cooking to create a sauce that is rich, flavorful, and comforting.
Alternative Ingredients
Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result. If Catalina dressing is unavailable, a French-style dressing can be substituted, though the flavor will vary slightly. Apricot preserves can replace cranberry sauce for a milder sweetness.
For a lower-sugar version, reduced-sugar dressing and preserves can be used. You can also add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Recipe Information
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6 hours |
| Total Time | 6 hours 10 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Yield | 4 portions |
Key Features
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a true dump-and-go recipe. It requires minimal prep, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and cooks entirely in the slow cooker. The chicken stays moist and tender, and the sauce thickens naturally. It is ideal for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving Approximate
Calories 390
Carbohydrates 22 g
Protein 32 g
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Cholesterol 95 mg
Sodium 780 mg
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 16 g
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparing the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of the crock pot. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer at the bottom.
Adding the Sauce
In a bowl, mix Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, and cranberry sauce or apricot preserves until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cooking
Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Spoon the sauce over the chicken occasionally if possible.
Finishing
Once cooked, gently stir the chicken to coat it evenly in the sauce. Serve hot.
Pro Tips
Use chicken thighs if you prefer extra juiciness. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain consistent heat. If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow it to thicken. For a richer flavor, sear the chicken briefly before adding it to the crock pot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is effortless, flavorful, and comforting. It is perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal without standing over the stove. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
What Makes This Recipe Unique
This recipe stands out because it transforms simple bottled ingredients into a dish that tastes slow-cooked and intentional. The sauce is bold, glossy, and deeply flavorful without requiring a long list of spices or steps. It is classic slow cooker cooking at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this dish reheats very well and can be made a day in advance.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Yes, allow the chicken to cool completely, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Yes, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, but low heat gives the best texture.
You’ll Also Love
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Conclusion
Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is proof that simple ingredients and slow cooking can create incredible results. With over a decade of professional cooking experience, I can say this recipe is one of the easiest and most reliable meals you can make. It is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for busy households, exactly what a great slow cooker recipe should be.
