Chicken Marbella is a legendary dish that seamlessly blends sweet, tangy, and savory Mediterranean flavors into every bite. With briny olives, chewy prunes, and a shower of fragrant herbs, this classic chicken recipe is both easy to assemble and bursting with colorful, company-worthy charm. Whether you’re making it for a festive dinner party or a cozy family meal, Chicken Marbella is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s magic in how just a handful of accessible, everyday ingredients can create a dish as sumptuous as Chicken Marbella. It’s proof that each component—whether tangy, herbal, or sweet—pulls its weight in flavor and transforms simple chicken into something special.

Chicken pieces: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs, breasts, or a mix for maximum juiciness and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh cloves give the marinade deep, aromatic notes—don’t skimp!
Oregano: Dried oregano offers earthy, herbal backbone to balance the sweet and tangy elements.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Red wine vinegar: Lends crucial tang that tenderizes the chicken and balances the sweetness.
Olive oil: Brings everything together with luxurious richness—use a good quality extra virgin if possible.
Pitted prunes: Their plump sweetness is the secret to that iconic Marbella flavor.
Pitted Spanish green olives: Salty and briny, they offer punchy contrast to the fruit.
Capers (with a bit of brine): Tiny bursts of briny, floral acidity liven up every bite.
Bay leaves: Infuse a subtle background aroma that deepens during the marinating process.
Brown sugar: Sprinkled before baking, it caramelizes in the oven and intensifies the saucy finish.
Dry white wine: Adds depth and helps create the irresistible pan juices that make Chicken Marbella unforgettable.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): A final flourish of color and freshness to finish the dish.

How to Make Chicken Marbella

Step 1: Mix and Marinate

Start by combining your chicken pieces, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, red wine vinegar, olive oil, prunes, olives, capers (with a splash of their brine), and bay leaves in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge—overnight if you can, or at least 2 hours for the flavors to really penetrate.

Step 2: Arrange and Sweeten

When you’re ready to bake, arrange the chicken pieces skin-side up in a single, snug layer in a large baking dish. Pour all the marinade ingredients and juices over the chicken. Sprinkle a generous layer of brown sugar evenly on top—it may seem like a lot, but trust me, it’s key to the signature Chicken Marbella glaze.

Step 3: Add the Wine and Bake

Pour dry white wine around (not over) the chicken to avoid washing off the sugary crust. Slide the dish into a preheated oven and bake uncovered until the chicken is deeply golden and cooked through, basting once or twice with pan juices, about 50-60 minutes depending on your oven and cut of chicken.

Step 4: Rest and Finish

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10 minutes so the juices settle and the flavors bloom even further. Spoon those magical pan juices—laden with olives, prunes, and capers—generously over the top. Scatter freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and bright freshness, and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Chicken Marbella

Garnishes

The finishing touch for Chicken Marbella is a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro—something green and vibrant makes the colors truly pop. If you want to go extra, a bit of grated lemon zest adds a lovely zing.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when served with something that soaks up all those incredible juices. Think fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, couscous, or your favorite crusty bread. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables add freshness and round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

To showcase Chicken Marbella for a dinner party, try serving it family-style, straight from the baking dish for a rustic feel. For a more refined approach, plate individual portions with a few prunes, olives, and a splash of pan sauce on each plate. You can also shred leftover chicken and use it to top a salad or stuff into wraps for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Marbella keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making the leftovers arguably even better the next day!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Chicken Marbella. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, making sure to include some pan juices with each serving. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat Chicken Marbella, covered, in a 325°F oven until warmed through—about 20 minutes. If you’re short on time, individual portions can be microwaved (add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist), but the oven gives the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken Marbella?

Yes, you can! While bone-in, skin-on pieces give richer flavor and stay juicy, boneless thighs or breasts make for an easier eat and shorter cooking time. Just adjust the oven time and keep an eye on doneness.

Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?

For best results, an overnight marinade works wonders, but even a 2-hour soak will infuse plenty of flavor. If you’re really pressed for time, let the chicken marinate while you prep the other ingredients and heat the oven—it’ll still be delicious.

What type of olives should I use?

Spanish green olives are classic for Chicken Marbella, but any briny, firm green olive will work. Just make sure they’re pitted to save yourself (and your guests) any surprises at the table.

Is it possible to make Chicken Marbella ahead for entertaining?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for entertaining because you can marinate the chicken a day or two ahead and simply bake it off when guests arrive. In fact, the flavors only get better the longer they mingle together.

Can I make Chicken Marbella without wine?

Yes! If you’d prefer to skip wine, substitute an equal amount of chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar. You’ll still get wonderful, balanced pan juices.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marbella is one of those magical recipes that brings both comfort and excitement to the table, with unexpected bursts of sweet, briny goodness in every bite. If you haven’t made it yet, give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how this colorful classic can turn a simple meal into something truly special!

Chicken Marbella Recipe