Chicken Marbella Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make chicken dish, Chicken Marbella is a must-try!

This Mediterranean recipe combines savory olives, sweet prunes, and tangy capers for a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, you can prepare it with common pantry ingredients and just a bit of marinating time.

Imagine serving this deliciously baked chicken with a side of crusty bread to soak up the tasty juices. The aroma that fills your kitchen while baking will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, Chicken Marbella is sure to impress!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here’s a list of the exact ingredients you’ll need for Chicken Marbella:

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  Chicken: Use a whole chicken cut into pieces or just chicken thighs. You can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy.

  
  
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  Olive Oil: Adds richness and aids in browning.

  
  
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  Garlic: Provides essential flavor. Fresh cloves are best.

  
  
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  Oregano: Dried oregano works well. You can substitute with fresh oregano if needed.

  
  
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  Red Wine Vinegar: Offers acidity and tanginess. Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.

  
  
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  Prunes: Adds sweetness and depth. Dried apricots or dates can be used as substitutes.

  
  
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  Green Olives: Brings a briny flavor. Kalamata olives also work well.

  
  
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  Capers: Enhances the salty, tangy profile.

  
  
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  Bay Leaves: Adds subtle depth.

  
  
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  Brown Sugar: Sprinkled on top for caramelization. Honey or maple syrup can be used, but expect slight taste variations.

  
  
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  White Wine: Provides moisture and acidity. Chicken broth can be an alternative.

  
  

Optional Add-ins:

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  Parsley: For garnish.

  
  
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  Lemon Juice: Adds freshness before serving.

  
  

Using these ingredients and substitutes will ensure a flavorful Chicken Marbella.

Instructions

1. 
   

   Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large bowl, mix together smashed garlic cloves, oregano, prunes, olives, capers and caper juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

   
   
2. 
   

   Marinate the Chicken:
   Add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Mix well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight.

   
   
3. 
   

   Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   
   
4. 
   

   Arrange in Baking Dish:
   Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the remaining marinade over the chicken evenly.

   
   
5. 
   

   Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle ¼ cup of brown sugar over the chicken pieces. Pour ½ cup of white wine around them.

   
   
6. 
   

   Bake the Chicken:
   Put the dish in the oven. Let it roast for 50 minutes to 1 hour. Occasionally, baste the chicken with the pan juices.

   
   
7. 
   

   Check for Doneness:
   The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be golden brown.

   
   
8. 
   

   Serve:
   Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Marbella!

   
   

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Marinate your chicken overnight for the best flavor. This allows the herbs and spices to fully soak in.

Brown the chicken first in a skillet. This step adds a nice texture to the dish.

If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours as a faster option.

Use a mix of prunes, olives, and capers. This gives the dish a balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Baste the chicken with pan juices every 15-20 minutes while baking. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

For Leftovers:

Store cooked Chicken Marbella in an airtight container.

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Chicken Marbella in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Switch Up the Ingredients:
Feel free to swap prunes with dates or apricots. These fruits add a different sweetness and texture.

Use Different Cuts:
Though chicken thighs are common, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time based on the cut.

Spice It Up:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Serving Idea #1:
Serve Chicken Marbella over a bed of couscous. The light texture of couscous pairs well with the rich, flavorful chicken.

Serving Idea #2:
For a fresh touch, try serving with a side of roasted vegetables. Zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers work great.

Make It a Sandwich:
Leftovers make a tasty sandwich filling. Add some greens for a balanced meal.

Garnish Options:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten up the flavors.

Alternative Marinades:
Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to change the flavor profile.