Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I still vividly recall the sweet, tangy aroma filling my grandmother’s kitchen on a chilly Tuesday evening. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a true classic slow cooker Catalina chicken recipe that brings back so many happy memories. This easy dump-and-go meal delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still crave something homemade and delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

There are so many reasons to adore this timeless dish! I truly believe this Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro will become a new favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.

It’s incredibly flavorful, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that awaken your tastebuds.
The prep time is minimal, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules. You practically just dump the ingredients in and go!
This easy Crockpot Catalina chicken throwback is super budget-friendly, using common pantry staples and affordable chicken.
It’s a fantastic family-friendly meal that even picky eaters tend to love, thanks to its appealing sweet sauce.
The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in unbelievably tender, fall-apart chicken every single time.
This easy Crockpot Catalina chicken throwback provides a comforting, nostalgic meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

Gathering the right retro Crockpot Catalina chicken ingredients is key to unlocking that unforgettable flavor! You’ll be surprised how simple yet effective this list is for such a delicious meal. I always keep these on hand for an easy weeknight dinner.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – I prefer breasts for this, but boneless thighs also work beautifully for dark meat lovers.
1 cup Catalina dressing (Kraft’s version is classic) – This is the star of the show. Its unique sweet and tangy profile defines this dish.
1 cup apricot preserves – This adds a lovely fruity sweetness and helps thicken the sauce. Peach jam or orange marmalade can also be substituted if you’re feeling adventurous.
1 small can tomato paste (6 oz) – It deepens the savory notes and gives the sauce a richer body. Don’t skip this for authentic flavor.
1 packet onion soup mix (1 oz, Lipton’s is classic) – This little packet is a powerhouse of savory, umami flavor and seasoning.

How to Make Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

Making this classic dish is incredibly simple, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is an experience in itself! This Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro practically cooks itself, leaving you free to tackle other tasks. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward classic slow cooker Catalina chicken preparation, making it perfect for even the busiest of weeknights.

Step 1: Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the bottom of your slow cooker. There’s no need for any fancy chopping or prep at this stage; just lay them flat.
Step 2: In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Catalina dressing, apricot preserves, tomato paste, and the entire packet of onion soup mix. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended and smooth. You’ll notice the sauce taking on a beautiful, rich color.
Step 3: Carefully pour this sweet and savory mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. I like to use a spatula to ensure every piece of chicken is nicely coated in the luscious Catalina sauce. This step is crucial for that signature flavor.
Step 4: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set the temperature to LOW. Allow the chicken to cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. I always recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Avoid the temptation to cook on high heat, as this can dry out the chicken and compromise that tender texture we’re aiming for with this classic slow cooker Catalina chicken preparation.
Step 5: Once cooked, you have options! You can easily shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks, creating a delicious pulled-style dish perfect for sandwiches. Alternatively, serve the chicken breasts whole, spooning plenty of that rich, flavorful sauce over the top. This Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro is fantastic served over white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or with warm Hawaiian rolls.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure your Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro turns out perfectly every time. These simple tips will elevate your slow cooker meal from good to absolutely amazing.

Always use good quality chicken. Fresh, not frozen, chicken breasts will yield the best texture and absorb the sauce more effectively.
Don’t be afraid to taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken. You can adjust the sweetness with a touch more preserves or acidity with a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid of your slow cooker releases heat and can add significant time to your cooking process.
For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken when done, then whisk a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water) into the sauce in the Crockpot. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes until thickened.

What’s the secret to perfect Vintage Crockpot Catalina chicken instructions?

The real secret to the best retro Catalina chicken slow cooker is in the low and slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I’ve found that letting it cook for the full 4 hours on low ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and the sauce is rich. This truly makes for the best retro Catalina chicken slow cooker recipe.

Can I make Old-fashioned Crockpot Catalina chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sauce ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. In the morning, simply place the chicken in the slow cooker, pour over the pre-mixed sauce, and set it to cook. This makes your Old-fashioned Crockpot Catalina chicken prep even easier.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Retro Catalina chicken slow cooker?

The key to avoiding mistakes with your Retro Catalina chicken slow cooker is not overcooking it, which can dry out the chicken. Use an internal thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Also, don’t use too lean of a chicken, as it lacks the fat needed to stay moist in the slow cooker.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

Once your amazing Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! I love how versatile this dish is, allowing you to pair it with various sides for a complete and satisfying meal. For an easy weeknight dinner, I often serve it over fluffy white rice, letting the rich, tangy sauce soak into every grain.

Another fantastic option for this old-time Crockpot Catalina chicken dinner is creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety potatoes perfectly complement the tender chicken and sweet-savory sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget some warm, crusty bread or Hawaiian rolls to sop up any leftover sauce – it’s too good to waste!

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

I always find it helpful to know what I’m eating, so here are the estimated nutrition facts for one serving of this delicious Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro (this recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 500
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 50g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 100mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used in your Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

One of the best things about this Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro is how well it keeps, making it fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying delicious leftovers. After cooking, allow any leftover chicken and sauce to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. This prevents bacterial growth and keeps your food safe.

Once cooled, transfer the Crockpot chicken with Catalina sauce vintage into an airtight container. It will happily store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep beautifully for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge. For reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro

What is Crockpot Catalina chicken retro?

Crockpot Catalina chicken retro is a classic, easy-to-make slow cooker dish featuring chicken breasts simmered in a sweet, tangy sauce. The sauce typically combines Catalina dressing, apricot preserves, tomato paste, and onion soup mix. It gained popularity in the 70s and 80s for its convenience and delicious flavor, making it a beloved throwback meal.

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this retro Catalina chicken slow cooker recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker and result in an even juicier dish, which is perfect for this Crockpot Catalina chicken retro. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with my old-fashioned Crockpot Catalina chicken?

This versatile Crockpot Catalina chicken retro pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. My go-to is always fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that incredible sauce. For a lighter meal, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad are excellent choices. Don’t forget some warm rolls for dipping!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Crockpot Catalina chicken retro sauce?

Yes, you can certainly tailor the sweetness to your preference. If you find the sauce too sweet, you can reduce the amount of apricot preserves slightly or add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a bit more tang. Conversely, if you desire more sweetness, a tablespoon of brown sugar can be stirred into the sauce. This allows you to customize your perfect Crockpot Catalina chicken retro experience.

Variations of Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro You Can Try

While the classic Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro is perfect as is, sometimes it’s fun to experiment! I’ve played around with a few variations that can add a new twist to this beloved dish, making it feel fresh while still retaining that nostalgic charm. These simple tweaks can cater to different tastes or dietary needs.

Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. This gives your authentic retro Catalina chicken Crockpot meal a delightful zing that balances the sweetness.
Fruity Fusion: Instead of apricot preserves, try using pineapple preserves or orange marmalade. This can introduce a brighter, more tropical note to the sauce, transforming the flavor profile in a subtle yet exciting way.
Veggie Boost: During the last hour of cooking, toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or even baby carrots. They’ll soften beautifully in the sauce, adding extra nutrients and a lovely texture to your Crockpot Catalina Chicken Retro.
Different Proteins: This sauce isn’t just for chicken! Pork tenderloin or even a beef roast can be slow-cooked in the same delicious sauce for a different kind of authentic retro Catalina chicken Crockpot meal.