There’s nothing quite like the delightful crunch of golden-brown chicken coupled with melty Swiss cheese and savory ham, especially when it’s served straight from your own kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Malibu Chicken recipe – a dish that effortlessly bridges comfort food with elegant flair.
I stumbled upon this gem during a family gathering, and it quickly stole the spotlight away from the usual more predictable fare. Imagine the excitement as you pull the bubbling, cheesy chicken from the oven, the savory aromas wafting through the air, inviting everyone to the table.
What I adore about this Malibu Chicken is its versatility; it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Plus, it comes together in about an hour, keeping your cooking stress-free while delivering maximum flavor. Ready to indulge in a dish that’s sure to please all palates? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will bring joy to your dining table!
Why is Malibu Chicken a Must-Try?
Delightful flavors: The combination of savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and tender chicken creates a harmony of tastes.
Effortless preparation: With just a few easy steps, this recipe allows you to impress without the stress.
Crowd-pleasing dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, everyone will want a second serving!
Versatile serving options: Pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies to round out your meal.
Baked to perfection: Finishing it off in the oven ensures that every bite is a warm, cheesy delight.
Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let this Malibu Chicken be your new go-to comfort dish!
Malibu Chicken Ingredients
• Dive into the deliciousness of Malibu Chicken with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken breasts, boneless, skinless – Tender and juicy, these are the stars of your dish.
- 1 cup buttermilk – This ingredient tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang.
For the Layers
- 6 slices ham – Offering a savory bite, ham complements the chicken perfectly.
- 12 slices Swiss cheese – Melts beautifully, enhancing the richness of the dish.
For the Coating
- 1 cup all purpose flour – Provides a crispy exterior that seals in moisture.
- 1 large egg – Helps the breadcrumbs stick, creating a delightful crunch.
- 1-2 cups fine breadcrumbs – Use panko for an extra crispy texture!
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning – A must for an extra kick of flavor!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and aroma to your chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt – A classic seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Just the right amount of heat to balance the flavors.
For Cooking and Serving
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Choose a neutral oil for frying to achieve that golden color.
- 2 Tablespoons butter – Brings richness and a hint of indulgence to your frying process.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – A creamy base for the dipping sauce.
- 2 Tablespoons yellow mustard – Adds a zesty punch to your sauce, perfect for dipping!
With these flavorful components, your Malibu Chicken is bound to steal the show!
How to Make Malibu Chicken
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Pound each chicken breast until thin. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat, transforming it into a mouthwatering delight.
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Heat vegetable oil and butter in a cast iron skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers, letting you know it’s ready for frying.
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Prepare three separate bowls: one with flour, one with a mixture of buttermilk and egg, and the third with breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings. This will create a flavorful coating for your chicken.
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Pat dry each piece of chicken and dip them in the flour, then in the buttermilk mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure they’re coated evenly for that perfect crunch!
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Fry the chicken in batches (3 at a time) in the hot skillet for approximately 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. This step gives you that delicious crispy exterior.
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Remove the chicken and set it on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining pieces until all are perfectly crispy.
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Place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out for even melting of the cheese later.
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Top each piece of chicken with a slice of Swiss, followed by a slice of ham, and then another slice of Swiss cheese. This layering is where the magic happens!
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Bake at 350°F until the cheese has melted, roughly 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it—those bubbly, golden edges mean it’s ready!
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Carefully remove from the oven and let it cool for a moment. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Mix mayonnaise and mustard together in a small bowl for a creamy dipping sauce that complements the dish beautifully.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Malibu Chicken?
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this savory dish with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the crispy chicken, soaking up any extra sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Green Beans: The fresh crunch and aromatic garlic add a burst of color and flavor, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing crunch and tangy dressing, making it a perfect companion to the indulgent Malibu Chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus: This earthy side brings a tender bite and a hint of nuttiness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness provides a delicious contrast to the savory ham and cheese, delighting your taste buds with every bite.
- Herbed Quinoa: A light, fluffy quinoa dish, garnished with herbs, adds a nutty flavor, making the meal heartier without being too heavy.
- Zesty Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the chicken and bring a fresh element to your plate.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink offers a refreshing, citrusy touch, perfectly balancing the flavors of the hearty chicken dish.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat with its molten center is a splendid way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Each pairing has its charm, contributing to a delightful dining experience that turns a good meal into a great one!
How to Store and Freeze Malibu Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Malibu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and moisture.
Freezer: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melty again.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen Malibu Chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for perfectly restored texture and taste.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Malibu Chicken ahead of time is a brilliant way to save time during busy weeknights! You can pound and marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, which helps enhance its flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap for up to 3 days. This way, when you’re ready to cook, simply fry and bake the chicken with the toppings as instructed. To maintain crispness, ensure the breadcrumb coating stays dry until frying. Your delicious Malibu Chicken will be just as mouthwatering, bringing warmth and comfort to your dinner table!
Expert Tips for Malibu Chicken
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Even Thickness: Pound the chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking and tenderness throughout. Uneven pieces can lead to some being overcooked while others may remain underdone.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and prevent it from tasting bland.
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Fry in Batches: Fry only 3 pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without steaming the chicken.
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Cool on Paper Towels: After frying, place chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping the breading crunchy and delicious.
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Watch the Bake: When baking, keep an eye on the cheese. You want it bubbly and slightly golden without burning, which can happen quickly!
These helpful tips will ensure your Malibu Chicken turns out irresistibly delicious every time!
Malibu Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Malibu Chicken experience with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the Swiss cheese with vegan cheese and use a non-dairy milk for the buttermilk to keep it creamy without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise and mustard mix for an exciting, fiery flavor.
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Herbaceous Bliss: Mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the breadcrumb coating for an aromatic lift that enhances the dish.
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Crunchy Topping: After baking, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top for an extra crispy finish that adds texture and flavor.
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Zesty Sauce: Experiment with flavored mustards, like honey mustard or Dijon, in the sauce for a punch of unique taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
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Whole Wheat Twist: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of fine breadcrumbs for a heartier texture and extra fiber, making this dish slightly healthier.
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Nutty Addition: Chop some almonds or walnuts and mix them into the breadcrumb coating for a nutty crunch that adds richness and depth.
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Mediterranean Flair: Swap out the ham for sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese, making a delicious Mediterranean-inspired version of Malibu Chicken that’s bursting with flavor!
Embrace these variations and make this beloved dish your own!
Malibu Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts for Malibu Chicken?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are firm and plump, with a light pink color and minimal fat. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell, as these are signs of spoilage. Fresh chicken will yield the best flavor and texture for your Malibu Chicken.
What is the best way to store leftover Malibu Chicken?
To ensure your leftovers stay delicious, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re not planning to eat them within that time, pop them in the freezer! Just wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to safeguard them against freezer burn.
Can I freeze Malibu Chicken? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, cool the fried chicken to room temperature. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Follow that with a layer of aluminum foil. This double-wrapping protects them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if the breading is not crispy on my Malibu Chicken?
If you’re finding that your breading isn’t achieving that desired crunch, try these steps: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—look for it to shimmer. Also, double-crumb your chicken by dipping it twice in the egg mixture and breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy coating. Finally, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; this can lead to steaming rather than frying.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, here are a few adjustments you might consider: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version. For dairy-free alternatives, try using a plant-based buttermilk and cheese. However, be cautious if anyone is allergic to chicken or any of the other ingredients; always check labels for allergens.
How long does it take to cook Malibu Chicken?
The total time from prep to table is about 1 hour. Spend 30 minutes preparing (including pounding chicken and setting up your breading stations) and another 30 minutes cooking. It’s a great way to make a scrumptious dinner without spending all day in the kitchen!
Irresistible Malibu Chicken That Will Wow Your Dinner Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound each chicken breast until thin.
- Heat vegetable oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with buttermilk and egg, and one with breadcrumbs and seasonings.
- Pat dry each chicken piece and dip in flour, then buttermilk mixture, and finally breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the chicken in batches for approximately 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and set on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Place cooked chicken on a baking sheet.
- Top each chicken piece with slices of Swiss cheese and ham.
- Bake at 350°F until cheese has melted, roughly 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Mix mayonnaise and mustard for a dipping sauce.