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Tender chicken thighs, vegetables and herbs in a rich-tomato sauce in an Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Prepare a savory Italian classic with this Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore featuring tender chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato-based sauce . Enjoy a delicious, hassle-free and comforting rustic dish bursting with Italian flavors that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Keyword 30 minute dinner recipe, chicken, chicken cacciatore, easy Italian dinners, Instant Pot, keto, low carb, paleo, whole 30
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 351 kcal
Author Kelly

Ingredients

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs* , feel free to use chicken breasts if you prefer
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic , minced
  • ½ medium white onion , chopped
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell peppers
  • 1 cup sliced carrots , (leave out for strict low carb / keto)
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 28 oz canned diced tomatoes , drained
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 4 Kalamata olives , optional
  • ½ cup chopped kale , stems removed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley , plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish , optional

OPTIONAL STEP: (TO THICKEN STEW)

  • 1 teaspoon arrowroot starch, plus 2 teaspoons water whisked together in a small bowl , feel free to use tapioca starch or cornstarch if preferred. You can also completely leave it out for low carb or use 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum instead)
  • Instant Pot (we tested this recipe in the 6 Quart DUO)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot and press the SAUTE button.

  2. Sear the chicken until you get a nice brown caramel coating. You may have to work in batches, depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

  3. Add the inner pot back to the pressure cooker and add more oil, if needed. Saute the garlic, onion, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

    Add the chicken back to the pot. Press CANCEL then cover with lid. Turn the valve to SEALING and press PRESSURE COOK HIGH (OR MANUAL - for older models).

  4. Set the timer to 10 minutes.

    Once the Instant Pot comes to pressure and cooks for 10 minutes, do a QUICK RELEASE.

    Open the lid carefully and stir in the olives and kale.


  5. OPTIONAL STEP: If you prefer a thicker stew, witch to SAUTE mode and stir in an arrow root starch slurry (or use xanthan gum for low carb) and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the stew bubbles and thickens up.

  6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, basil leaves and taste and season with additional salt or black pepper, as needed.

    Serve hot over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, pasta or your favorite sides.

Recipe Notes

*can also use 3 chicken breasts, sliced in half

Nutrition Facts
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 351 Calories from Fat 189
% Daily Value*
Fat 21g32%
Carbohydrates 14g5%
Fiber 3g12%
Sugar 7g8%
Protein 21g42%
* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.