Chicken Marbella is a dish that brings the best of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Combining juicy chicken with sweet prunes, briny olives, capers, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Originating from the iconic “Silver Palate Cookbook”, it’s become a classic that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
For 4-6 servings:
- 4 large chicken thighs and drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on) or 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 1/2 cup pitted prunes
- 1/3 cup green or black olives, halved
- 2 tbsp capers with a little brine
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red or white wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano or 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, prunes, olives, capers, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Transfer the marinated chicken and all the marinade ingredients into a large baking dish. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, skin side up.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Wine
- Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Pour the white wine around the chicken into the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 15 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
- Spoon the prunes, olives, and pan juices over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Options: While bone-in chicken offers more flavor, you can use boneless thighs for quicker cooking.
- Make Ahead: Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair Chicken Marbella with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Chicken Marbella is a timeless recipe that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of tender chicken, sweet and savory elements, and aromatic herbs makes it an unforgettable dish. Whether for a dinner party or a cozy family meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Try this classic dish today and let the rich, complex flavors transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast!