Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Using the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a flavorful Chicken Cacciatore in under an hour.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, bell peppers, and herbs creates a savory, satisfying sauce.
• One-Pot Meal: No need to dirty multiple pans—everything is cooked in the Instant Pot!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.

2. Brown the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot and brown on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Deglaze the Pot: Add white wine (if using) to the pot to deglaze, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.

4. Add Sauce Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine.

5. Pressure Cook: Return the chicken to the pot. Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 12 minutes. After cooking, do a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.

6. Serve: Remove the chicken, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve the sauce over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Add mushrooms, olives, or capers to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time to 8-10 minutes.
• Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, if using boneless, cook for 8-10 minutes under pressure.

2. Can I substitute the white wine?

Yes, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or use a splash of vinegar for acidity.

3. Can I make this recipe without the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this on the stove by simmering everything in a large pot for 45 minutes.

4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs—use 3 times the amount of dried herbs listed.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice if needed.

6. Can I add pasta to the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can add uncooked pasta to the pot. After cooking the chicken, add pasta and enough broth to cover, then cook for 5 minutes on high pressure.

7. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on “Sauté” mode for a few minutes to reduce it.

8. Can I use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use tomato sauce, but the texture of the sauce will be different.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?

Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is a simple and flavorful dish that delivers all the taste of a slow-cooked Italian classic in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a comforting family meal.

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