Name: Malibu Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 6–8 oz each); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 Large Eggs, beaten; 1 ½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper; ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional); ¼ teaspoon Paprika (optional); 4 slices Cooked Ham (about 1-2 oz each); 4–8 slices Swiss Cheese; 3 tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil; ½ cup Mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard; 1 tablespoon Honey; 1 tablespoon Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (optional); Pinch of Salt and Black Pepper; 1–2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a sun-soaked escape on your plate, this Malibu Chicken Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. It’s got everything you want in a meal: juicy, tender chicken breasts enveloped in a perfectly crispy crust, layered with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, and finished off with a luscious, tangy creamy sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish brings a warm, comforting vibe with a touch of gourmet flair that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this Malibu Chicken Recipe keeps it delightfully simple. Each carefully chosen element plays a vital role, from the crisp texture of the panko breadcrumbs to the creamy tang of the Malibu sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and colors on your plate.

4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Pounding them thin ensures quick, even cooking and maximizes tenderness.
1 cup All-Purpose Flour: Acts as the first layer to help the egg wash cling and sets the stage for crispiness.
2 Large Eggs: Beaten well to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken for that irresistible crust.
1 ½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add extra crunch; Italian-style or seasoned varieties work well too.
½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors throughout the dish.
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle kick and depth.
¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional): Adds a gentle savory undertone to the coating.
¼ teaspoon Paprika (optional): For a pop of color and a hint of smoky sweetness.
4 slices Cooked Ham: Thinly sliced ham like Black Forest or Honey Ham infuses smoky, salty richness.
4–8 slices Swiss Cheese: Melts into a creamy, nutty layer; Gruyère or Provolone can be delightful swaps.
3 tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil: Ideal for pan-frying to get that classic golden exterior.
½ cup Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Malibu sauce that brings smoothness and richness.
3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Gives the sauce its signature tang and a slight kick.
1 tablespoon Honey: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance acidity.
1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce and lifts the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (optional): Provides subtle umami depth for complexity.
Pinch of Salt and Black Pepper: To season the Malibu sauce perfectly.
1–2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (optional): Helps thin the sauce to your preferred consistency.

How to Make Malibu Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Pound the Chicken

Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re about ½ inch thick. This not only helps the chicken cook faster but makes every bite tender and juicy. Uniform thickness is key for even cooking, so take your time here.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, spread out the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture. This triple-layer coating is what guarantees that perfect crispy crust we all crave in a Malibu Chicken Recipe.

Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese

Once coated, place the chicken breasts on a tray and top each with a slice or two of cooked ham, followed by enough Swiss cheese to cover generously. The combination of smoky ham and melting Swiss cheese tucked inside the crispy chicken is honestly what makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, lightly spraying them with oil first to ensure they crisp up beautifully. Once cooked through, the cheese should be perfectly melted and gooey.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Malibu Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. If the sauce feels too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk or cream until it hits your desired consistency. This dreamy sauce is the signature finishing touch of the Malibu Chicken Recipe and elevates every bite.

How to Serve Malibu Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really brighten and balance the richness of this dish. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a zesty option for diners to squeeze over their chicken, bringing an invigorating citrus lift that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Malibu Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with classic, simple sides that don’t steal the spotlight. Garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto offer a lovely comforting base. For lighter options, steamed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balance the meal effortlessly, adding freshness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner or want to impress, try slicing the chicken into medallions and fanning them out on a platter, drizzled generously with the Malibu sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. Alternatively, serve the chicken on toasted baguette slices as open-faced sandwiches for a fun and casual twist that’s perfect for brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Malibu Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the chicken and sauce if possible to keep the coating nice and crispy when reheated.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Keep the Malibu sauce separate in a small airtight container for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwave reheating tends to make the crust soggy, so oven reheating is preferred. Warm the sauce separately on the stovetop or microwave and drizzle over just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is classic for Malibu Chicken Recipe, Gruyère, Provolone, or even mozzarella can be delicious alternatives depending on your preference for meltiness and flavor.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, baking is a fantastic option, especially if you want to keep things simple. Just lightly spray the breaded chicken with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Can I make the Malibu sauce ahead of time?

You sure can! The creamy Malibu sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and thin with a bit of milk or cream if it has thickened too much.

What can I do if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular dried breadcrumbs work just fine. You can toast them lightly in a dry pan for extra crunch or mix in some Italian herbs and Parmesan to boost flavor.

Is this Malibu Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The chicken reheats beautifully, and the sauce can be packed separately to keep the chicken crispy until you’re ready to eat. It makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Malibu Chicken Recipe is such a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into a memorable, crave-worthy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and feel the joy of that crispy, cheesy, creamy combo in every bite. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

Malibu Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

Malibu Chicken is a delightful breaded chicken dish featuring tender boneless skinless chicken breasts topped with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, all served with a creamy, tangy Malibu sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Crispy panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a perfect crunch, making this recipe a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ¼ inch, to ensure they cook evenly and stay tender. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a second dish, beat the eggs well. In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
Assemble with Ham and Cheese: Place each breaded chicken breast on a plate. Top each with one slice of cooked ham (or two if desired) and then cover with enough slices of Swiss cheese to fully coat the top.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully pan-fry each chicken breast until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can lightly spray with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
Make the Creamy Malibu Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream until desired consistency is reached.
Serve: Plate the cooked Malibu chicken and spoon the creamy Malibu sauce generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For best results, pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
If you prefer, you can bake the chicken instead of pan-frying to reduce oil usage; just spray the breaded chicken lightly with oil before baking.
Swiss cheese can be substituted with Gruyère or Provolone for a different flavor profile.
The Malibu sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
Adding paprika and garlic powder to the breadcrumbs enhances flavor but is optional.
Use high-quality ham and cheese for the best taste.
The recipe can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying or Baking
Cuisine: American