If you are craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with flavors and textures—from juicy, tender chicken breasts wrapped in delicate ham and gooey Swiss cheese to a crisp golden crust, all finished with a luscious creamy Malibu sauce—this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to impress and quickly become a favorite go-to on your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, while also keeping the preparation straightforward and approachable. From the crispy coating to the savory filling and tangy sauce, each component highlights the dish’s vibrant character.

4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose breasts that are even in size to ensure they cook uniformly and remain juicy.
1 cup All-Purpose Flour: This serves as the base for the breading to stick, helping create that irresistible crust.
2 Large Eggs: Beaten well, the eggs act as the glue to hold the breadcrumbs tightly to the chicken.
1 ½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add fantastic crunch; feel free to use Italian-seasoned crumbs for an extra flavor boost.
½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip it.
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground gives the best aroma and subtle heat.
¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional): Adds a hint of savory depth to the crust.
¼ teaspoon Paprika (optional): Lends a pleasant color and smoky-sweet flavor to the breading.
4 slices Cooked Ham: Use good-quality thin slices like Black Forest or Honey ham for the perfect balance in each bite.
4–8 slices Swiss Cheese: The nutty, melty Swiss cheese is key, though Gruyère or Provolone are excellent alternatives.
3 tablespoons Olive or Vegetable Oil: For pan-frying, this adds a golden, crispy finish, but you can also lightly spray if baking only.
½ cup Mayonnaise: A rich and creamy base for the Malibu sauce, full-fat works best.
3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Brings a signature tang that brightens the sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon Honey: Balances the tanginess with a gentle sweetness; maple syrup is a viable swap.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key to add freshness and acidity.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (optional): Adds a subtle umami kick to deepen the flavor.
Pinch of Salt and Black Pepper: Season the sauce precisely to taste.
1–2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (optional): Use this to adjust the sauce’s consistency to your liking.

How to Make Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by gently pounding your boneless chicken breasts to an even thinness. This step is critical because it helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures a tender bite. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, and place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to avoid a mess. Pounding them thin also makes rolling the ham and cheese easier later.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, place the flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in the third. This classic dredge sequence lets the flour coat the chicken first to help the egg stick, and then the breadcrumbs cling for that crisp finish. Take your time and enjoy this part—it’s like dressing the chicken up for a special occasion.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Rolls

On each pounded breast, layer slices of ham and then cover with the Swiss cheese. Roll each breast tightly to encase the filling securely. This creates those gorgeous layers of flavor that make this Chicken Recipe so irresistible. Secure with toothpicks if needed, so the rolls hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken Rolls

Coat each rolled chicken breast first in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture making sure all sides are well-covered. Don’t rush this step because a thorough coating guarantees a crunchy golden crust after frying or baking.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

For the best texture, start by pan-frying the rolls in hot olive or vegetable oil until they’re golden brown on all sides. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Then transfer to a preheated oven to finish cooking gently through. If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake them entirely, just lightly spray with oil beforehand to encourage browning.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Malibu Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper for a sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and creamy all at once. Add a splash of milk or cream if you want a thinner consistency. This Malibu sauce adds that indulgent, vibrant finish that elevates the Chicken Recipe from tasty to unforgettable.

How to Serve Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can brighten and add texture contrasts to this rich dish. Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green and herbal freshness. A few thin lemon slices also work beautifully to complement the tang of the Malibu sauce and add a burst of color.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Recipe loves good company. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette balance the richness perfectly. For a bit of crunch, simple garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls provide the ideal table companions to sop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken rolls into medallions and fan them out on a platter drizzled with the Malibu sauce for a stunning presentation. You can also serve them layered on cooked rice pilaf or nestled over a bed of sautéed spinach to wow guests with visual appeal and an inviting aroma. Presentation matters, but the flavors shine brightest!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce separately when possible to maintain maximum freshness. Reheat carefully to avoid drying out the chicken.

Freezing

If you want to make this Chicken Recipe ahead of time, wrap each cooked and cooled chicken roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. The rolls will keep for up to 2 months frozen. Freeze the sauce separately to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

For reheating, an oven set to 325°F is ideal to warm the chicken evenly without losing moisture; cover loosely with foil to keep it tender. Heat the Malibu sauce gently on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor, but since their shape differs, consider adjusting cooking time and careful pounding to create an even thickness.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken before cooking?

Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and remains tender. It also makes it easier to roll with ham and cheese, ensuring everything stays together during cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Just be sure your seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?

Gruyère is a fantastic substitute that melts well and has a similar nuttiness. Provolone or mozzarella can work too if you prefer a milder flavor.

How spicy is this Chicken Recipe?

This recipe is not spicy by nature. If you want a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your breadcrumb mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the Malibu sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of flavors and textures in one glorious bite. From the first crispy crunch to the creamy, tangy finish, it’s the kind of dish that invites smiles and second helpings. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let this recipe fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and your heart with joy. You’ll be so glad you did!

Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 17 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

This crispy breaded chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts wrapped with slices of savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, creating a deliciously rich and satisfying meal. The chicken is coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture for a perfect golden crust, and served with a tangy and creamy Malibu sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and optional Worcestershire sauce. Ideal for a comforting dinner that balances crispy texture with creamy, flavorful layers.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about ½ inch thick and even in thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and helps tenderize it.
Season and Set up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second dish, beat the eggs thoroughly. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, and finally coat well with the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere fully.
Assemble the Chicken Rolls: Lay the breaded chicken breasts flat. Place a slice of cooked ham on each breast, then top with 1-2 slices of Swiss cheese, enough to cover the surface comfortably.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the chicken breasts, cheese side up, and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Creamy Malibu Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Adjust the consistency with milk or cream if needed to achieve a smooth, pourable sauce.
Serve: Plate the cooked chicken breasts and generously drizzle or serve alongside the creamy Malibu sauce. Enjoy immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

You can substitute the ham with prosciutto or smoked turkey slices for different flavor profiles.
For extra crispy chicken, use panko breadcrumbs and pan-fry with a combination of oil and butter.
The Malibu sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
If baking instead of frying, give the chicken a light spray of oil before baking to promote browning.
Adjust honey in the sauce to your preferred sweetness level.
This recipe is not gluten-free due to flour and breadcrumbs; substitute with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if needed.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying (optional baking)
Cuisine: American