Chicken Cacciatore In The Instant Pot

Another dinner ready in about 1 hour from start to serve and I only must do prep work for 15 minutes of that hour.  The rest of the time my Instant Pot does it all.  This will feed 8 people and can be served over riced cauliflower, spaghetti squash, zoodles or, if your family must have it, over pasta and topped with some fresh grated parmesan cheese.  Protein and produce as we like it for the weight loss surgery win and the family approval.

Ingredients:

• 8 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (27.3 oz)
• 16 ounces of Trader Joe’s Rustico Sauce
• 1 1/2 cups Diced Bell Peppers - All Colors (6.2 oz)
• 2 Zucchini Diced (15 oz)
• 1 cup Diced Onion (10.4 oz)
• 4 oz Sliced Crimini Mushrooms
• 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 2 Cloves Minced Garlic
• Olive Oil Spray
• 4 tablespoons Chopped Basil or Parsley to Garnish
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper to Taste

Directions:

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Lightly spray Instant Pot with olive oil spray, press sauté and brown chicken on both sides for about 2 minutes per side.  Set chicken aside
3. Add a bit more olive oil spray, add onions, peppers, zucchini, mushrooms and sauté until soft and turning golden, about 4-6 minutes
4. Turn off sauté function.
5. Add chicken back to the Instant Pot, cover with tomato sauce, salt and pepper to taste, oregano, garlic and bay leaves.  Stir lightly and cover the pot.
6. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
7. Allow natural release of pressure.
8. Remove bay leaves, garnish with basil or parsley and serve over whatever you choose.  Top with grated parmesan and enjoy.

Nutrition:  Makes 8 servings, each with approximately

• 166.8 calories and
• 20.4 grams of protein

Note:  Be sure to add calories/protein for what is under the Chicken Cacciatore as well as any parmesan cheese you put on top.