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Malibu Chicken Recipe - Crispy, Cheesy, and Family-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian style or plain with added seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, avocado, or light olive oil) for pan-searing
  • 8 thin slices deli ham
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese (or 8 if you like it extra cheesy)
  • For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard (or half Dijon, half yellow for a milder flavor)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • Optional Garnishes: Chopped parsley, lemon wedges

Method
 

  1. Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
  2. Season: Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up a breading station: Put flour in one shallow dish. Beat the eggs with milk in a second dish. In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Bread the chicken: Dredge each breast in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. Place on a plate to rest for 5–10 minutes so the coating adheres.
  5. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  6. Pan-sear for color: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden. You’re not cooking it through—just building color and crunch.
  7. Transfer and top: Move the chicken to the sheet pan. Lay 2 slices of ham on each piece, then top with a slice (or two) of Swiss cheese.
  8. Bake: Bake 8–12 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Make the sauce: While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust sweetness and tang to taste.
  10. Serve: Let the chicken rest 3 minutes. Spoon or drizzle honey mustard over the top, or serve on the side. Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon if you like.