Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in if preferred)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Add the olive oil.
– Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Brown the Chicken:**
– Push the onions and garlic to the side of the pot. Add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. **Cook the Vegetables:**
– Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms to the Instant Pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
5. **Deglaze the Pot:**
– Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine cook down for about 2 minutes.
6. **Combine Ingredients:**
– Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
– Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce and vegetables.
7. **Pressure Cook:**
– Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
– Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
– Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
8. **Finish and Serve:**
– Open the lid and stir the chicken and sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy this flavorful, comforting Italian classic with minimal effort and maximum taste!
