Chicken cacciatore (pollo alla cacciatora) is an Italian dish prepared “hunter style” with tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. The rustic chicken and pasta dish frequently includes wine, mushrooms, and a variety of herbs as well. The chicken and rich sauce are typically served with hot cooked pasta or rustic, crusty bread.
The Instant Pot makes this version quickly without sacrificing flavor. Serve the chicken and sauce with pasta, garlic bread, and a simple tossed salad for a satisfying, comforting family meal. The bold red sauce calls for red wine, such as sangiovese or a fine Italian Chianti.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped red and green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup chicken stock, more as needed
- 1/4 cup dry white wine, or more chicken stock
- 2 medium bay leaves
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- Fresh basil leaves, optional
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
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Gather the ingredients.
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Select the Instant Pot sauté button. When the display reads hot, add the oil. Arrange the chicken thighs in the pot and sprinkle lightly with kosher salt and black pepper—cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned. You will probably have to sauté in batches.
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Remove the chicken thighs to a plate and set aside. Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and the mushrooms are golden brown. Add the garlic, oregano, and basil and cook for 1 minute longer, stirring constantly.
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Add the chicken stock and wine to the vegetables in the pot, and then add the chicken pieces. Top with the bay leaves.
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Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken.
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Secure the lid and turn the steam release valve to the sealing position. Choose the manual or pressure cook setting (high pressure) and set the time for 12 minutes. When the time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release the remaining pressure. With a slotted spoon, remove the chicken to a plate or pan and set aside.
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Add the tomato paste to the sauce and choose the sauté function. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir basil leaves into the sauce, if using. Add the chicken back to the sauce and heat through.
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Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish.
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Serve the chicken and sauce atop hot cooked pasta. Garnish with chiffonade-cut basil or minced parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve extra cheese at the table.
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Leftover chicken cacciatore can be put in an airtight container and stored in the fridge for three to four days. It can also be frozen in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Make sure the chicken has cooled down completely before freezing. It can be kept frozen for up to three months.
Reheat in a microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.
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