The aroma of Italian herbs wafts through the air as you imagine a tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich tomato sauce. Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers will take your taste buds on an adventure that feels like a warm hug from Nonna herself. Picture this: succulent chicken simmering alongside vibrant bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, all infused with garlic and spices that dance in perfect harmony. For more inspiration, check out this Perfect Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
Now, if you’re thinking this dish is only for special occasions, think again! This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing your friends with your culinary prowess. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about those savory flavors long after the last bite has vanished.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- Bursting with flavor and colorful veggies, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- The versatility of this dish means you can serve it over pasta, rice, or even enjoy it on its own.
- Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful; they won’t dry out during cooking like breasts might.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation and varied flavors.
- Onion: A medium-sized yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile to new heights; don’t skimp on it!
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use high-quality tomatoes for a rich base; they provide acidity that balances everything.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs gives this dish its signature Italian flair.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control over the saltiness while enhancing flavor.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the veggies and add richness to the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up. Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften—about five minutes should do it—then stir in minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Sear each side for about three minutes until golden brown. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through; they’ll finish cooking later!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in those glorious canned diced tomatoes along with chicken broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning as well as any extra spices you fancy—maybe some red pepper flakes for heat? Stir everything together gently.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid securely and set your Instant Pot to “Manual” pressure cooking for ten minutes. Make sure your valve is set to “Sealing.” While it’s cooking, feel free to daydream about how amazing dinner will be.
Step 5: Release Pressure
Once time’s up, allow a natural release for five minutes before switching to quick release. Carefully open up that lid (watch out for steam) and savor that wonderful aroma!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your Chicken Cacciatore onto plates; spoon over some of that tasty sauce. Serve with pasta or crusty bread for mopping up every last drop of sauce—it’s just too good to waste!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece while basking in compliments from family or friends who are lucky enough to share this meal with you!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug!
- Packed with flavor and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends.
- Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to try it!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To cook this dish like a pro, start by searing the chicken in your Instant Pot. Once it’s golden brown, remove it and sauté the bell peppers and onions. Add garlic, herbs, and canned tomatoes before returning the chicken. This sequence builds layers of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers! Swap out bell peppers for mushrooms or zucchini, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat, or add olives for an extra Mediterranean twist. chimichurri steak with peppers The possibilities are endless! For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or use the microwave on low power to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices.
- Don’t rush the searing process; it’s key for flavor.
- Finally, taste as you go—seasoning makes all the difference!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a dinner party where my friends raved about how flavorful this dish was. They didn’t believe me when I said it took less than 30 minutes to make!
FAQs
What is Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers?
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers is a flavorful Italian dish featuring chicken cooked in a savory tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and herbs. The Instant Pot allows for quick cooking while infusing the chicken with delicious flavors. flavorful chicken shawarma This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, offering a hearty meal that pairs well with pasta or crusty bread.
How do I serve Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers?
You can serve Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers over a bed of pasta, rice, or polenta for a complete meal. Garnishing it with fresh basil or parsley adds a vibrant touch. Add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. This versatile dish also makes great leftovers, so consider serving it as a next-day lunch.
Can I make Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore without bell peppers?
Yes, you can customize Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore according to your preferences. If you don’t like bell peppers, consider using other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots. The key to this dish is the savory tomato sauce and spices that complement the chicken well. Feel free to experiment and create your own version.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore?
Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore takes about 30 minutes under pressure after sautéing the ingredients. Including prep time and natural release time, the entire process usually lasts around 45 minutes. This quick cooking method makes it an ideal option for those who want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers
In summary, Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make mealtime enjoyable. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. stuffed pepper soup By using your Instant Pot, you can achieve tender chicken infused with rich tomato sauce in no time. Whether served over pasta or rice, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers is a comforting Italian classic that combines succulent chicken thighs, colorful bell peppers, and a robust tomato sauce—all cooked in just one pot. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, creating a hearty meal that bursts with flavor. Serve it over pasta or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Heat olive oil and add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Add Italian seasoning and stir gently to combine.
- Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' pressure cooking for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, allow a natural release for 5 minutes before switching to quick release.
- Carefully open the lid and serve the Chicken Cacciatore on plates with sauce over pasta or bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce. - Substitute bell peppers with zucchini or mushrooms based on preference. - Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.




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