Slow Cooker Chicken Marbella

This is a less calorific version of the classic chicken marbella, with no oil or sugar but it doesn’t compromise on flavour. There’s a little more forward planning required for this dish as the chicken does need to marinate overnight. I urge you to try it though, as the combination of lemon, olives, capers and falling apart chicken will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

What is Chicken Marbella?

Chicken Marbella is a classic Mediterranean chicken dish with sweet, savoury and tangy flavours. Traditionally made famous by the Silver Palate cookbook in the 1980s, it combines chicken with olives, capers, prunes and garlic in a rich marinade. In this slow cooker version, the meat becomes tender and infused with all those bold, delicious flavours with minimal effort.

Can I make Chicken Marbella in the slow cooker?

Yes — this recipe has been specially adapted for the slow cooker. Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time you’ll have a beautifully tender Mediterranean chicken dish that tastes like it’s been cooked for hours (because it has!). It’s the perfect slow cooker chicken recipe for busy weekdays or entertaining.

What should I serve with slow cooker Chicken Marbella?

This Mediterranean chicken dish pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, roasted potatoes or a side of steamed green vegetables. Crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up the flavourful sauce.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop everything into your slow cooker and switch it on. Prepping ahead helps deepen the flavour and makes this even more convenient for a midweek meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes — chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking as they stay juicy and tender. Whether you use boneless or bone-in thighs, both work well and add extra flavour to the dish.

Is this slow cooker chicken Marbella freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is Chicken Marbella a healthy option?

It can be! This recipe uses lean cuts of chicken and is packed with Mediterranean ingredients like olives and garlic. You can adjust the sweetness by using fewer prunes or a reduced amount of added sugar if you prefer a lighter option.

More slow cooker chicken recipes

If you want more slow cooker chicken recipes you can visit my website, or check out some of my slow cooker cookbooks such as The Healthy Slow Cooker Book and Slow Cooker Even Easier which are available on Amazon.