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Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella

Chicken Marbella is a savory Mediterranean dish that blends tender bone-in chicken thighs with prunes, green and black olives, capers, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile of sweet, salty, and tangy. Marinated and baked in one pan, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, offering simple preparation, make-ahead convenience, and a delightful combination of rich and bright flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 46 bone-in chicken thighs, skin on

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup pitted prunes
  • 1/2 cup mixed green and black olives, pitted
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl or sealable container, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, pitted prunes, mixed olives, capers, chopped parsley, and oregano. Add the bone-in chicken thighs and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply.
  2. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, prepare a roasting pan or casserole dish to receive the chicken and marinade.
  3. Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the baking dish along with prunes, olives, and capers. Spoon some marinade over the top. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns golden and slightly caramelized.
  4. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, spooning the luscious pan juices over the chicken.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for the richest, most developed flavor.
  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for the best texture and moisture retention.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking pan to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
  • Save the pan juices to drizzle over rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
  • Opt for a combination of green and black olives for a more complex flavor profile.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Marbella, Mediterranean chicken, baked chicken thighs, prunes, olives, capers, one-pan chicken, sweet and savory chicken