Chicken Cacciatore

My Simple Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This Chicken Cacciatore fits the bill perfectly! It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, even on a weeknight when time is short. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, leaving you more time to relax and connect with your family.

The beauty of this Chicken Cacciatore is its versatility. I often adapt it depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Other times, I’ll swap out the olives for sun-dried tomatoes, creating a completely different taste profile. The base recipe, however, remains the same: tender chicken simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce with carrots, celery, and just a hint of garlic. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that's both satisfying and healthy. The recipe’s simplicity is also a big plus for me; I can easily get my kids involved in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity.

I typically serve this dish over pasta, but it’s also delicious served with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple green salad. Leftovers are amazing, and honestly, they often taste even better the next day! The flavors have a chance to meld together, creating an even richer, more complex sauce. This recipe is a true testament to the idea that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. This dish is definitely a regular in our house, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too.

Ingredients you'll need:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons flour
• 2 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 carrot (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 1 stalk celery (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (1/2 can)
• 8 black olives
• 1 slice sprouted whole-grain bread (for serving)

This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights. It's adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect choice for using up leftovers from the fridge. The simple steps allow you to involve your children in the cooking process, creating a fun family activity. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• If you don't have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer the cacciatore uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
• Serve over your favorite pasta, rice, polenta, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Remember to adjust seasonings to your own taste preferences. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• Turn the Instant Pot on. Choose the Sauté program and the More setting.
• While the Instant Pot is heating, coat the chicken with the flour, black pepper, salt and Italian seasoning.
• When the Instant Pot is hot, add 1 teaspoon of the olive oil. Heat for 20 seconds, then add the chicken breast. Cook for about 3 minutes on either side or until it begins to brown. Remove the chicken.
• Add the remaining olive oil, carrot, and celery and cook for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add the vinegar and stir well, incorporating any food that has stuck to the bottom of the pot.
• Turn the Sauté program off. Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the tomatoes and water. Add the olives.
• Close the lid and the vent. Select the meat and Stew program and cook for 10 minutes.
• Serve in a bowl along with bread for dipping into the sauce.