If you re looking for a cozy yet vibrant dish that s full of flavor and comes together quickly, this Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe is a game changer. I absolutely love how this turns out every time – the juicy chicken melds beautifully with the sweet prunes, tangy olives, and capers, creating a rich Mediterranean vibe that s hard to resist. Plus, using the Instant Pot means you get all those deep, slow-cooked flavors without babysitting the stove for hours.
When I first tried this Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe, I was amazed by how tender the chicken got and how all the ingredients harmonized perfectly in just under 40 minutes. It s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or anytime you want a special dish without the fuss. Trust me, once you make this, you ll keep coming back to it for those hearty, comforting meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: You throw everything into your Instant Pot, and it does all the magic for you, saving tons of time and cleanup.
- Balanced Flavors: Sweet prunes, salty olives, and tangy capers create a symphony of flavors that ll surprise and delight your taste buds.
- Perfectly Tender Chicken: The high-pressure cooking method ensures your chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor every time.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this dish, and I bet yours will too-it s great for dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe come together to create that classic sweet-and-savory combination. I love how accessible these items are – some pantry staples plus a few fresh touches you can usually find at your local market or grocery store. Here are a few little tips on picking them out.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Choose a good-quality olive oil for the best flavor, especially since it s used early to brown the chicken.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer thighs for juiciness, but breasts work great too-just cut into even cubes so everything cooks evenly.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic breathes huge flavor power into this dish, so don t skip it.
- Sweet onion: Sliced onions bring a touch of natural sweetness and lovely texture after sautéing.
- White wine: It adds acidity and depth-pick a dry white wine you d happily drink.
- Carrots: Cut into rounds, carrots add color and slight sweetness that balances the olives and capers.
- Red potatoes: Diced potatoes soak up all the juices – I like red potatoes because they hold their shape well.
- Prunes: These are the sweet star of the show, lending a rich fruitiness that pairs surprisingly well with the savory ingredients.
- Kalamata olives: Halved and pitted, they provide that characteristic briny punch essential for Marbella s signature flavor.
- Capers: Tiny bursts of tanginess that elevate the overall dish, adding a bit of zing.
- Vegetable stock: This keeps the dish moist and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Brown sugar: A subtle sweetness that helps caramelize some flavors, balancing the savory elements.
- Oregano: Adds a warm, earthy herbaceous note that complements the Mediterranean profile.
- Fresh parsley: Chop it freshly for garnish-this bright, fresh herb really lifts the whole dish right before serving.
Variations
One of the things I love about the Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak it to suit whatever mood you re in or the ingredients you have around-don t hesitate to make it your own!
- Chicken Cut Variations: I ve made it with just thighs for extra richness or a mix of breast and thighs when I want leaner meat but still juicy bites.
- Vegetable Options: If you re out of potatoes or carrots, try parsnips or sweet potatoes-they add a nice twist of flavor.
- Wine-Free Version: I once swapped wine with a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water-still delivered tang and helped deglaze beautifully.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but just double-check your vegetable stock to be safe.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Marbella Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken for Flavor
Start by dicing your chicken into ½-inch cubes-that size is perfect to keep everything bite-sized and cook evenly. Toss them into the Instant Pot s inner pot with the olive oil and set it to Sauté mode. Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes until it starts to brown; this step is key because it builds the base flavor of the whole dish. Don t rush it-those browned bits add a deep savory note you really want.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Onions
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced onions right on top of the chicken and sauté together for 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to soften and the garlic to become fragrant, getting some nice golden edges but be careful not to burn them-keep it moving with a wooden spoon. This part amps up the aroma and sets the stage for the sauce.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the white wine and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pot bottom. This deglazing step prevents burn notices on your Instant Pot and infuses the base with acidity and complexity. Let the wine reduce for a minute-this also cooks off the alcohol and concentrates the flavor.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Seasonings
Now, toss in your sliced carrots, diced potatoes, brown sugar, and oregano. Give everything a good stir to incorporate the flavors. These veggies add texture and absorb the delicious juices from the chicken and sauce, making every bite cozy and hearty.
Step 5: Stir in Prunes, Olives, Capers, and Stock
This is where your Instant Pot Chicken Marbella really comes alive-add your prunes, halved kalamata olives, capers, and vegetable stock. The prunes bring a subtle sweetness, olives and capers add briny brightness, and the stock keeps it all moist and stew-like. Give it a gentle stir to evenly distribute everything.
Step 6: Pressure Cook and Natural Release
Seal the lid securely on your Instant Pot and set it to Manual or Pressure Cook mode on High for 15 minutes. When the timer beeps, resist the temptation to quick release right away-instead, let it naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes. This gradual pressure drop helps the chicken stay tender and the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Season
After opening the lid, stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed – I always find adding fresh herbs or a bit more salt at this stage makes a huge difference. Now it s ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Marbella Recipe
- Don t Skip Browning: Trust me-browning the chicken first adds layers of rich flavor you won t get if you throw raw chicken straight into the pot.
- Uniform Size Matters: Cutting chicken, potatoes, and carrots into similar-sized pieces ensures even cooking, so no one gets tough or mushy bits.
- Use Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally helps maintain moisture in the chicken and keeps it tender.
- Season at the End: Since flavors concentrate under pressure cooking, always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the very end to avoid overseasoning.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Marbella Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle a generous handful of fresh parsley on top for that fresh, bright finish-it makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Sometimes, I add a few extra whole capers or olives on top for visual appeal and a little extra briny kick in every bite. A drizzle of good olive oil at the end is also a nice touch.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when served over fluffy white rice or your favorite pasta, soaking up all those gorgeous juices. On busy nights, I pair it with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus to add a bit of freshness and crunch alongside all that tender chicken and veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I ve served Instant Pot Chicken Marbella on a bed of creamy polenta with extra parsley and a lemon wedge on the side to brighten things up. Another time, I presented it family-style in a large rustic serving dish garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs-everyone loved diving right in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they keep well for up to 4 days. When I do this, the flavors deepen even more overnight, making the next-day meal just as good, if not better. Just make sure the chicken is cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Instant Pot Chicken Marbella for later, I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags without the fresh parsley. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method keeps the chicken tender and flavors intact.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftovers is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of stock or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the chicken from drying out, but if you must use it, heat in short bursts and stir well.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but I recommend increasing the cook time by a few minutes and ensuring you do a natural pressure release to keep the meat tender. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to make sure it’s fully cooked.
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What can I substitute for prunes if I don t have any?
If you don t have prunes on hand, dried apricots or raisins work well as substitutes. They provide a similar sweetness and chewiness that complements the savory elements.
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Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
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Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable stock. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Marbella recipe holds a special place in my heart because it feels like a little Mediterranean escape on a plate without needing hours in the kitchen. Every time I make it, I m reminded that you can create impressive, flavorful meals quickly and simply. So go ahead, give it a try-you ll impress your family and maybe even yourself! I m confident you ll find yourself making it again and again.
Print
Instant Pot Chicken Marbella Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (3/4-cup each)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
Instant Pot Chicken Marbella is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender chicken, sweet prunes, savory olives, and fresh vegetables cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This one-pot meal features a harmonious blend of Mediterranean ingredients, enhanced by browning the chicken for deep flavor, and finished with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauté Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs, diced into 1/2 inch cubes
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sweet onion, sliced
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
- 6 red potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup prunes
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
Liquids and Stock
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 cups vegetable stock
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Dice the chicken into 1/2 inch cubes. Place the chicken and olive oil in the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Cook on Sauté mode for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown, which adds rich flavor to the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and sliced onions to the chicken in the pot. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions and garlic start to brown and become fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step prevents burning and incorporates deep flavors into the sauce.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, brown sugar, and oregano to the pot. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Add Prunes, Olives, Capers, and Stock: Stir in the prunes, halved kalamata olives, capers, and vegetable stock to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to Manual or Pressure Cook mode on high pressure and cook for 15 minutes. Once cooking completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for tender and flavorful results.
- Finish and Adjust Seasoning: Open the lid carefully. Add the fresh chopped parsley and stir. Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as desired to perfect the seasoning.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Marbella over rice or pasta while hot. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Don’t skip browning the chicken first because it adds wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
- Chop chicken, potatoes, and carrots into similarly sized, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning at the end according to personal taste preferences.
- Serve this dish over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Use fresh parsley to brighten the flavor and appearance before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 312
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 536mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 36mg
