Weight Watchers Chicken Cacciatore

 This Weight Watchers Chicken Cacciatore has all the flavors of the original while taking steps to reduce the points where possible.

While the traditional method involves slow cooking in a regular pot, we’ll expedite the process using the Instant Pot without compromising on flavor.

If you like the recipes be sure to check out all of my Italian Chicken recipes.

Why should you try Chicken Cacciatore?

1.  For Lovers of Chicken Stews: Chicken Cacciatore offers a hearty stew-like experience, with a flavorful sauce teeming with vegetables and chicken that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s a satisfying meal that’s packed with savory goodness, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings.

2.  Quick and Easy Preparation: Despite its rich flavor, Chicken Cacciatore comes together quickly and effortlessly with affordable ingredients. The addition of olives, capers, wine, and Italian spices adds a unique touch that elevates the dish to new heights, making it a standout on any dinner table.

3.  Versatile Serving Options: While Chicken Cacciatore pairs beautifully with pasta or rice, it’s equally delicious served with steamed vegetables for a lighter alternative. In fact, the sauce is so flavorful that I often find myself enjoying it by the spoonful – especially the rich, savory remnants at the bottom of the pot. 

4.  Cooking everything in a single pot and under 30 minutes, Chicken Cacciatore delivers the comforting flavors of a classic Italian recipe without the lengthy cooking time.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes (plus time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure)

Servings: 6

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh

7 WW points per serving.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 kg)
• 1 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30 g)
• 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup black olives, pitted (75 g)
• ½ glass red wine (90 ml)
• 2 tablespoons capers
• Rosemary, oregano, marjoram to taste

How To Make Chicken Cacciatore (Step by Step Instructions):

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Saute” function. Heat the olive oil in the pot and brown the chicken thighs on both sides, working in batches if necessary. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Saute for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

4.  Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black olives, red wine, and capers to the pot. Stir to combine.

5.  Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the vegetable mixture.

6.  Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables in the pot.

7. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.

8. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to the venting position.

9. Carefully open the Instant Pot lid and check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

10. Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!

Variations and Substitutions

The original recipe calls for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, but feel free to use boneless, skinless thighs for a lighter option. Alternatively, bone-in or boneless chicken breasts can also be used to reduce Weight Watchers points. 

While this recipe doesn’t include mushrooms, they’re a popular addition to many Chicken Cacciatore recipes and can add depth to the dish. Experiment with your favorite Italian spices such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, or marjoram for a personalized touch.

Tips and Tricks for Making Chicken Cacciatore

1.  The consistency of the sauce is achieved through a combination of vegetable breakdown and a light dusting of flour on the seasoned chicken. Aim for a delicate coating of flour on the chicken pieces to prevent clumping while maintaining a balanced sauce.

2.  Pair this recipe with some cooked brown rice, preferably dry, as the sauce tends to be quite abundant.

With its hearty flavors and straightforward preparation, Chicken Cacciatore is a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So why wait? Embrace the warmth and comfort of Tuscan cuisine with every delicious bite.

WW Points

Uncooked skinless bone-less chicken thigh 24 points
Small canned black ripe olives 3 points
Tomato 0 points
Capers 0 points
Onion 0 points
Chicken broth 0 points
Tomato paste 1 point
Table salt 0 points
Olive oil 4 points
Black pepper 0 points
All-purpose flour 2 points
Red wine 5 points