Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a mix of sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe features ingredients like prunes, olives, capers, and herbs, all baked…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chicken Marbella is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a mix of sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe features ingredients like prunes, olives, capers, and herbs, all baked together to create a wonderful, juicy meal with a hint of brightness. The combination of salty and sweet tastes makes it stand out on any dinner table.
I love making Chicken Marbella because it’s one of those recipes that feels special but is actually easy to prepare. I usually let the chicken marinate overnight so all those flavors really soak in. This way, when it comes out of the oven, the chicken is bursting with so much goodness, and the sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or crusty bread.
My favorite way to serve Chicken Marbella is with a simple side of rice or roasted vegetables. It’s a great meal to share with friends or family because it always gets compliments, and leftovers taste even better the next day. If you haven’t tried this one yet, I definitely recommend giving it a go—it’s a lovely way to add some excitement to your usual chicken dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat juicy and add great flavor. You can swap for chicken breasts, but they cook faster and might dry out, so watch the time.
Prunes: These add sweetness and a soft texture. If you don’t have prunes, dried apricots or figs work well as sweet substitutes.
Olives & capers: Both bring a salty, tangy kick. Use any briny olives you like—green or black. Capers can be swapped with a small splash of lemon juice if needed.
Red wine vinegar: It adds a bright tangy note. You can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a milder acidity.
Brown sugar: This balances the tartness with a gentle sweetness. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup in equal amounts.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Marinade?
Marinating is key to Chicken Marbella’s flavor. It lets the tangy, sweet, and salty ingredients soak deeply into the chicken, making every bite delicious.
- Mix all marinade ingredients well before adding the chicken to ensure even flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is better if you have time.
- Keep the chicken refrigerated while marinating, covered tightly to avoid spills and keep it fresh.
- Don’t rinse after marinating; pour the marinade with the chicken into the baking dish—it helps flavor the whole dish.
Taking the time to marinate makes a huge difference in taste and tenderness, so try not to skip or rush this step!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large bowl or zip-top bag – perfect for mixing and marinating the chicken so flavors soak in evenly.
- Baking dish or roasting pan – choose one roomy enough for chicken pieces to cook in a single layer.
- Tongs – make it easy to turn chicken and handle hot pieces without burning your hands.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the chicken to a safe 165°F without overcooking.
- Small whisk or fork – great for mixing the marinade smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; just reduce baking time slightly.
- Add sliced roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky twist that pairs nicely with olives and prunes.
- Stir in a handful of sliced almonds or pine nuts before serving for a nice crunch.
- Use fresh thyme or rosemary in the marinade for a different herbal note instead of oregano.
How to Make Chicken Marbella?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 8-10 pieces)
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings and Sauce:
- 1 cup pitted prunes
- ½ cup green olives, pitted
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- ¼ cup capers with a bit of juice
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken. Allow at least 4 hours to marinate (overnight is best for full flavor). Baking takes about 50-60 minutes, plus an optional 3-5 minutes for crisping the skin. Altogether, set aside about 5 to 6 hours if marinating overnight, or around 1 hour if short on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix and Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, mix the red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors soak in.
2. Prepare to Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces skin side up in a single layer in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
3. Add Fruits and Olives:
Scatter the prunes, green olives, Kalamata olives, and capers (with their juice) evenly over and around the chicken pieces. Pour the reserved marinade and white wine over everything.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked, the skin is golden and crisp, and the sauce is bubbling. For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes at the end—just watch it carefully to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve warm with the prunes, olives, and capers spooned over the chicken. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I Make Chicken Marbella Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken overnight, then bake it the next day. You can also prepare the entire dish in advance and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Marbella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and add a splash of white wine or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Marbella?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables also make a great side for a complete meal.