Description
Chicken Marbella is a flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken dish featuring a bold combination of savory green olives, briny capers, sweet prunes, and fresh herbs marinated overnight and baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this gluten-free recipe promises tender chicken with a delicious balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 to 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
Marinade & Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1/2 cup prunes (dried plums)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine minced garlic, green olives, capers, prunes, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to infuse deeply.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces along with the marinade evenly in a baking dish, making sure the skin is exposed for crisping.
- Bake the Chicken Marbella: Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes until the chicken skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through baking, spoon pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Final Touches and Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. Discard the bay leaves, then transfer the chicken and garnishes to a serving platter. Drizzle with some of the pan sauce for an irresistible finish.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best moisture and flavor.
- Marinate overnight to deepen flavors.
- Dry the chicken skin before baking to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- Don’t omit prunes; they add essential subtle sweetness and balance.
- Fresh herbs significantly enhance aroma and freshness.
- Frequently spoon pan juices over the chicken while baking to maintain juiciness and develop a rich glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours to overnight marination)
- Cook Time: 40 to 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 to 1.5 chicken pieces)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Chicken Marbella, baked chicken, Mediterranean chicken, marinated chicken, savory chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken
