Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is a vibrant, flavorful Italian classic that comes together effortlessly in your pressure cooker, making it the perfect cozy dinner for busy weeknights or a heartwarming meal to share with friends and family. Juicy chicken simmers with sweet bell peppers, meaty mushrooms, briny olives, and a savory tomato sauce, absorbing layers of robust Mediterranean flavors. You’ll love how this dish transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a comforting stew you’ll want to make again and again.

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is that every ingredient brings something essential—whether it’s color, robust flavor, or that irresistible Italian aroma filling your kitchen. Simple pantry staples join forces here, resulting in a dish that tastes like you spent hours simmering, but in reality takes less than an hour from start to finish!

Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are especially juicy and tender, but breasts also work if you prefer a leaner option.
Salt and black pepper: Seasoning the chicken is key for building a rich, savory foundation right from the start.
Olive oil: Just a tablespoon for sautéing; it lends a subtly fruity undertone to the sauce.
Onion: Chopped onion creates the aromatic base that ties the stew together.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and gorgeous color to every bite.
Green bell pepper: Balances out the flavors with a grassy, slightly tangy quality.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms give the sauce plenty of earthy depth and a satisfying texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings its signature warmth and roundness to the sauce.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
Crushed or diced tomatoes: The heart of your cacciatore sauce—choose what you love for your desired texture.
Chicken broth: Just enough liquid for the Instant Pot to do its magic, while adding more savory flavor.
Dried oregano or Italian seasoning: A teaspoon ensures those classic herby notes throughout the stew.
Bay leaf: This simple addition infuses the sauce with a subtle, fragrant backdrop.
Black olives (optional): Sliced olives are totally optional but bring a lovely briny bite.
Capers (optional): These little bursts of tang intensify the Mediterranean flair.
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brightens up the whole dish before serving.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by taking a minute to season both sides of your chicken with salt and black pepper. This is where the magic begins—this initial step ensures the chicken is flavorful through and through, building the base for a truly delicious Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, work in batches to sear the chicken—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re not cooking them all the way right now; you’re looking to develop golden edges that add richness to the sauce later. Remove the browned chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Toss the chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms into the pot. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies begin to soften and release their aroma. Add garlic and tomato paste, stirring constantly for one more minute to melt the paste and wake up that garlic flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the chicken broth, then use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. These little bits are flavor gold for your Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore, so don’t skip this step! It also helps prevent the dreaded burn warning on your Instant Pot.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients and Return Chicken

Now it’s time to pile on the flavor. Stir in the canned tomatoes, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), the bay leaf, and, if you’re feeling fancy, the olives and capers. Nestle the browned chicken back into the pot, ensuring each piece is tucked into the tomato-rich sauce.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Lock on the Instant Pot lid and set it to Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 10 minutes. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. This is where the chicken becomes fall-apart tender, soaking up all the saucy goodness.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Carefully open the lid, discard the bay leaf, and taste your beautiful stew. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Scoop the chicken and sauce over your pasta, rice, or polenta, then shower the top with fresh parsley or basil. You’ve just made a dinner that tastes like pure comfort—welcome to the world of Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish. A healthy sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil right before serving not only provides a pop of color but also lifts the flavors of the dish. If you like, add a few extra olives or a dusting of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Side Dishes

One of the joys of Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is its versatility. Spoon it generously over a bed of pasta, creamy polenta, or warm rice to soak up every bit of the sauce. For lighter sides, a simple green salad or a tangle of sautéed greens is always a hit, especially with a hunk of crusty bread for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this stew family-style in a big bowl at the center of the table for a relaxed, Italian trattoria feel. Or go cozy and individual by piling each serving into shallow bowls, topped with fresh herbs and a swirl of really good olive oil. For a rustic dinner party, serve with grilled bread and a chilled bottle of red for maximum wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Simply let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen as they rest.

Freezing

To enjoy this Italian classic on demand, freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags (lay flat to save space). It keeps beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot, or microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken (like drumsticks or thighs) works beautifully in this recipe. Just add 2–3 extra minutes to the pressure cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.

Do I have to use both bell peppers?

Not at all. If you only have one color on hand, go ahead and use what you’ve got. The combination of red and green adds a balance of sweetness and a hint of bitterness, but either will give your cacciatore great flavor and color.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?

If the sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, just switch the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode after cooking, and let it simmer for a few extra minutes uncovered. Stir occasionally until it reduces to your perfect consistency.

Is Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore spicy?

Traditionally, cacciatore isn’t spicy, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the herbs for a subtle kick. Adjust to your taste or leave them out if you prefer a milder stew.

Can I make Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?

Yes! This is actually one of those dishes that gets even better after a day in the fridge. Making it ahead allows all the flavors to meld together. Just reheat gently before serving and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that brings both comfort and a pop of Italian sunshine to your table, don’t wait to try this Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore. It’s easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and guaranteed to become a recipe you return to again and again. Gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and get ready for some serious flavor!

Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore Recipe