Savory Crock Pot Catalina Chicken for Effortless Dinners

Imagine walking into your kitchen, and the air is filled with the savory aroma of chicken simmering in a sweet and tangy sauce. That’s right; I’m talking about Crock Pot Catalina Chicken, the dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without any of the fuss. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, especially when you hear that satisfying sizzle as it cooks low and slow.

This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you have guests coming over unexpectedly. Picture this: You set it in the morning, and by dinner time, your home smells so good that even the neighbors might come knocking (but hey, don’t let them in if they didn’t bring dessert). Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.

My family still talks about that one dinner where I whipped up this dish on a whim. The kids practically licked their plates clean, asking for seconds — or was it thirds? Let’s just say I was pretty much a rock star that night.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 pieces to ensure everyone gets enough juicy goodness.
• Catalina Dressing: This sweet and tangy dressing is the star of the show—don’t skip it!
• Onion Soup Mix: A savory addition that packs flavor without any extra effort.
• Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose colorful ones for a vibrant presentation and added crunch.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth—use at least 2 cloves for maximum flavor.
• Rice (for serving): Prepare some fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping your fresh bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their aromatic oils—a small yet crucial step.

Add Chicken to the Crock Pot: Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This allows them to absorb all those wonderful flavors as they cook.

Mingle with Dressings: Pour the Catalina dressing over the chicken and sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly on top. Stir gently so every piece gets coated while still keeping chicken intact.

Add Veggies: Toss in those colorful bell peppers along with minced garlic. The vibrant colors will make you feel like a culinary Picasso!

Set It and Forget It: Cover the crock pot and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender your chicken will be.

Serve It Up: Once cooked, shred or slice those juicy chicken breasts before serving over rice. Drizzle some extra sauce from the pot—it’s pure bliss!

Crock Pot Catalina Chicken not only delivers on flavor but also saves time in your busy schedule. So go ahead, give yourself permission to enjoy stress-free cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken in a skillet to lock in flavor, then transfer to the crock pot with sauce. This method ensures juicy chicken and rich flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add veggies like bell peppers for added nutrients. Customize the sauce with pineapple or soy sauce for a twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve flavor and texture.

Sometimes, I serve this dish at family gatherings, and it disappears faster than my kids can say “more!” The smiles around the table make cooking worthwhile.

FAQ

What sides pair well with Crock Pot Catalina Chicken?

Rice, salad, or crusty bread complement this dish beautifully, enhancing its flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just check your Catalina dressing and choose a gluten-free option.

How long does it take to cook in a crock pot?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fully cooked through.

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Crock Pot Catalina Chicken

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Crock Pot Catalina Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal. With minimal prep time, this dish simmers to perfection, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, it pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Experience the joy of stress-free cooking as you enjoy tender, flavorful chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 50 minute
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup Catalina dressing
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 2 cups fresh bell peppers, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare fresh bell peppers by chopping them into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
2. Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
3. Pour Catalina dressing over the chicken and sprinkle onion soup mix on top; stir gently to coat.
4. Add chopped bell peppers and minced garlic to the pot.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
6. Shred or slice chicken before serving over rice, drizzling extra sauce from the pot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. Customize by swapping chicken breasts for thighs or adding other veggies like carrots or broccoli. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.