Chicken Marbella's a delicious dish from the Silver Palate Cookbook, featuring tender chicken, sweet prunes, and briny olives. You'll marinate the chicken with garlic, capers, and spices, letting the flavors develop overnight. After roasting, you'll serve it warm, drizzled with pan juices for extra richness. This savory meal's perfect for special occasions or dinner parties, giving your guests something to rave about. Discover what makes this dish a favorite among home cooks and how to make it shine!
History
Chicken Marbella, which first graced the pages of the Silver Palate Cookbook in 1982, quickly became a beloved dish in American kitchens.
Created by Sheila Lukins and Julee Rosso, this recipe aimed to simplify entertaining while delivering sophisticated flavors. Its unique blend of sweet prunes and briny green olives captured many hearts, making it a family favorite, especially during Rosh Hashanah and Passover.
Over the years, its sweet, tangy profile has made Chicken Marbella a staple at dinner parties and gatherings. Celebrated for its ease of preparation and impressive presentation, this dish has been passed down through generations, highlighting its enduring appeal and role in culinary traditions.
It remains a cherished recipe, beloved by many.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup prunes, pitted
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- 1 whole head of garlic, peeled and minced (or chopped garlic for a lighter version)
- 1 cup brown sugar (or reduced amount for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with prunes, olives, capers, minced garlic, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 to 3 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange the marinated chicken skin side up in a roasting pan and pour the marinade over the top.
Roast for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Chicken Marbella, consider using a variety of olives to add complexity to the dish.
Kalamata, green, or even a mix can enhance the overall flavor. If you prefer a slightly less sweet version, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar in the marinade.
Also, make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps keep the meat juicy.
Ultimately, don't forget to serve it with a generous amount of the pan juices drizzled over the chicken and your chosen side dish for an unforgettable meal.
Cooking Steps
To get started on your Chicken Marbella, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, marinate the chicken in a mix of olive oil, olives, and capers for that rich flavor.
Once it's ready, bake it for about 45 minutes and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) is vital for achieving perfectly cooked Chicken Marbella. This temperature guarantees the chicken roasts evenly, resulting in tender meat and golden, crispy skin.
As you finish marinating the chicken, go ahead and preheat the oven so it's ready for when you are. It's important to let the oven fully preheat before putting the chicken inside. This helps avoid uneven cooking and guarantees you reach the desired internal temperature of 145°F.
To ensure accuracy, consider using an oven thermometer. It'll help confirm that your oven hits and maintains that 350°F mark, setting the stage for delicious, perfectly cooked Chicken Marbella.
Enjoy the process and the delightful outcome!
Step 2. Marinate Chicken in Olive Oil
Start by combining olive oil with vinegar, prunes, olives, capers, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is essential for your Chicken Marbella, as it enhances the flavors beautifully.
Once mixed, add your chicken pieces, ensuring they're fully coated. Turn them occasionally to soak up all those delicious flavors. For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight, allowing at least 12 hours for the marinade to penetrate the meat.
Use a non-reactive container or a resealable plastic bag to prevent any chemical reactions. After marinating, arrange the chicken skin side up in a roasting pan, pouring the marinade over it for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Enjoy the anticipation of a flavorful dish!
Step 3. Add Olives and Capers
After marinating the chicken, it's time to enhance the dish with olives and capers.
Start by pitting whole green olives for a fresher flavor and layer half of them and the capers in your marination container.
Then, add the chicken, ensuring even distribution of these ingredients.
The combination of olives and capers contributes a delightful tangy brininess that perfectly balances the sweetness of the prunes in Chicken Marbella.
Together with garlic and oregano, they create a robust flavor profile that's characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
For the best results, let the chicken marinate with these additions overnight, turning occasionally so it can fully absorb all those delicious flavors.
This step brings your dish to life!
Step 4. Bake for 45 Minutes
To guarantee your Chicken Marbella bakes to perfection, first, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Next, arrange the marinated chicken skin side up in a roasting pan, making certain to include the marinade for extra flavor.
Sprinkle brown sugar, salt, and pepper over the chicken to help create that delicious caramelized crust as it cooks.
Now, it's time to bake for 45 minutes, but keep a close eye on the internal temperature. You want it to reach at least 145°F for safe consumption.
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to maintain its juiciness before serving.
This step guarantees you enjoy every bite of your perfectly baked Chicken Marbella!
Step 5. Garnish With Fresh Parsley
Garnishing your Chicken Marbella with fresh parsley instantly enhances its presentation and flavor. To achieve this, chop the parsley finely to guarantee even distribution over the dish.
This vibrant green color not only adds visual appeal but also complements the rich flavors of the chicken and marinade. Adding parsley just before serving helps maintain its fresh taste and beautiful hue.
It's a simple yet effective way to elevate the presentation of your Chicken Marbella, making it perfect for special occasions or gatherings. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful touch, and it'll make your dish stand out on the table.
Final Thoughts
While you might think of Chicken Marbella as just another chicken dish, it truly stands out due to its remarkable blend of flavors and ease of preparation.
By marinating the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, you allow the sweet prunes, briny olives, and tangy capers to create a delightful flavor profile that's perfect for entertaining.
This dish not only impresses your guests but also delivers a hearty dose of protein, making it a satisfying meal.
Its versatility shines through as it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, whether it's creamy mashed potatoes or fragrant rice pilaf.
Serve it on a stunning serving platter, and you've got a showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Chicken Marbella Made Of?
When you're looking to create a flavorful dish, you'd typically start with key ingredients that enhance your meal.
You might use a combination of protein, like chicken, alongside a mix of savory and sweet elements such as olives, prunes, and spices.
For depth, you'd add vinegar or wine, and a touch of sugar to balance flavors.
Fresh herbs can finish the dish, adding brightness and visual appeal to your plate.
What Is Best to Serve With Chicken Marbella?
When you're planning a meal, think about what sides will enhance your dish. Starchy sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf soak up delicious juices, making each bite satisfying.
A light salad, such as a classic Caesar, balances richness, while roasted vegetables add color and nutrients. For something heartier, consider serving over pasta, and don't forget some crusty bread for mopping up all those wonderful flavors.
Enjoy your meal!
How Did Chicken Marbella Get Its Name?
Isn't it interesting how names can tell stories? When you hear "Marbella," you might think of sun-soaked beaches and vibrant Mediterranean cuisine.
This dish got its name from the Spanish city, reflecting those bold flavors. Popularized in the 1982 Silver Palate Cookbook, it embraced a unique blend of ingredients, showcasing the culinary traditions of that coastal region.
What Does Ottolenghi Serve With Chicken Marbella?
When you're looking to elevate your meal, consider pairing your dish with vibrant, seasonal salads that bring fresh herbs and citrus into play.
A fragrant grain salad, like couscous or quinoa, absorbs delicious juices and enhances richness. Roasted or grilled vegetables add depth and color, while a tangy yogurt or tahini-based sauce offers a creamy contrast.
To round it out, opt for a light, herbaceous white wine or invigorating spritzer for a balanced experience.
