Pot Chicken Cacciatore: 5 Hearty Comfort Food Secrets

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Pot Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that has become a favorite in many households. This hearty meal combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and earthy mushrooms in a rich tomato sauce, creating a comforting experience perfect for any weeknight. The flavors meld beautifully in the Instant Pot, making it both easy to prepare and delicious. Whether served over pasta or rice, each bite is a warm hug that transports you to Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Pot Chicken Cacciatore

This Pot Chicken Cacciatore recipe is not just easy; it’s a complete game-changer for busy nights. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this dish:

Quick preparation time of only 22 minutes
One-pot cooking means less cleanup and more family time
Hearty chicken cacciatore dish loaded with vegetables
Can be made in a slow cooker for added convenience
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Family-friendly and sure to please picky eaters

This dish is a true Italian classic, and with its gluten-free ingredients, it fits various dietary needs. You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again.

Ingredients for Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
7 chicken thighs (skin and bone in)
1 medium onion (chopped in chunks)
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped in chunks)
1 medium green bell pepper (chopped in chunks)
10 ounces mushrooms (sliced)
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, omit for Whole30)
2 teaspoons oregano (dried)
2 teaspoons basil (dried)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 teaspoons garlic paste (or 3 cloves garlic, crushed)

How to Make Pot Chicken Cacciatore Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a sauté pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and once hot, place chicken thighs skin side down. Sauté for 3 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden, then flip and cook for an additional minute. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Plug in the Instant Pot and press the sauté button. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, then add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 3: Stir in sliced mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 1 more minute to release flavors.
Step 4: Add the seared chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot along with crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dry sherry (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, and garlic paste. Stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Seal the Instant Pot lid and ensure the venting knob is set to the sealing position. Select the pressure cook button set to high pressure on normal mode and set the timer for 13 minutes.
Step 6: When cooking is complete and the Instant Pot beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally or carefully perform a quick release by turning the vent knob to venting (use an oven mitt for safety).
Step 7: Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish or serve directly from the pot. Spoon over cooked pasta or rice, add a side of vegetables if desired, then enjoy your comforting Chicken Cacciatore.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with pasta or rice.
For Whole30, omit the dry sherry.
Brown the chicken well for maximum flavor.
Let the flavors meld longer for an even richer taste.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Here are a few delicious ideas:

Serve it over your favorite pasta for a filling meal.
Pair it with warm crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
Add a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Chicken Cacciatore

To store, transfer the chicken cacciatore to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes for a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Chicken Cacciatore

What is chicken cacciatore?

Chicken cacciatore is a traditional Italian dish that features chicken braised with tomatoes, vegetables, and herbs. It’s known for its hearty flavors and is often served with pasta or rice. The dish can vary by region, but the core ingredients remain consistent.

Can I make Pot Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Pot Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time. Simply cook it as directed and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving for a quick and tasty meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Chicken Cacciatore?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that you brown the chicken well before pressure cooking. Also, use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and don’t skip the herbs, which are essential to the dish’s authenticity.

Variations of Pot Chicken Cacciatore You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:

Try using different proteins like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add olives or capers for a briny twist.
Serve it with quinoa or polenta for a healthy grain alternative.

This authentic Italian chicken cacciatore recipe is versatile and can be customized to fit your taste.

Irresistible Pot Chicken Cacciatore served in a bowl with vibrant vegetables

Incredible homemade Pot Chicken Cacciatore ready in minutes

For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. You might also enjoy our Creamy White Wine Mushroom Chicken for a delightful twist on comfort food.

Step-by-step preparation of Pot Chicken Cacciatore with fresh ingredients

For more tips on cooking chicken, you can refer to this Food Network article for inspiration.