Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore: A Flavorful and Easy Italian Classic

Chicken Cacciatore is a traditional Italian dish that translates to "hunter's chicken." This hearty, flavorful meal is typically made with chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and herbs. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a rich and savory chicken cacciatore in less time than traditional methods. In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through making Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore, providing tips for perfect results and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Benefits:

1. Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs creates a rich, savory sauce.
2. Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making this a perfect weeknight meal.
3. Healthy: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
4. Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or polenta, or enjoy it on its own with a side of crusty bread.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Cacciatore:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté: Press the sauté button and let the Instant Pot heat up. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add More Oil: If needed, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the Instant Pot.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add the Bell Peppers and Mushrooms: Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Add Wine: Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and tomato paste.
2. Season: Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

1. Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
2. Set the Cooking Time: Select the Pressure Cook (Manual) setting and set the timer for 10 minutes.
3. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

1. Remove the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set aside.
2. Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, set the Instant Pot to sauté and let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve

1. Plate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on a serving platter.
2. Ladle the Sauce: Spoon the rich tomato and vegetable sauce over the chicken.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cacciatore

1. Sear the Chicken

• Flavor Development: Searing the chicken thighs before pressure cooking helps develop a deeper flavor and adds a delicious texture.

2. Use Bone-In Chicken

• Moist and Tender: Bone-in chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moist during cooking compared to boneless cuts.

3. Customize the Vegetables

• Versatility: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference, such as zucchini, carrots, or olives.

Customizing Your Chicken Cacciatore

Variations:

• Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for a spicier dish.
• Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth.

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the chicken broth, are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but always check the labels on all ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• Pasta: Serve the chicken cacciatore over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice or risotto pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta makes a perfect base for chicken cacciatore.

Bread:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a tasty, aromatic side to complement the dish.

Drinks:

• Red Wine: A robust red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs well with the rich flavors of chicken cacciatore.
• White Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio is also a good match.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing.

Storing and Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze chicken cacciatore in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat chicken cacciatore in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave, covered, until hot.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy this classic Italian dish. With tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and savory vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or polenta, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of cooking with your Instant Pot!

Did you try this recipe? Share your experience and any customizations you made in the comments below!