Malibu Chicken

ByMia Harper
Delicious homemade Malibu Chicken served with sides
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Malibu Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breast with savory ham and gooey mozzarella cheese, all nestled within a crispy breadcrumb coating. This comforting meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or family get-togethers. The delectable flavors will leave your taste buds dancing, and the best part is that it comes together in just about an hour!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 450
  • Protein: 31 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 35 grams
  • Fat: 20 grams
  • Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugar: 1 gram
  • Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Malibu Chicken

There are so many reasons to make Malibu Chicken! First and foremost, it’s packed with flavor—from the rich, melted mozzarella cheese to the savory layers of ham and seasoned chicken. The texture contrast between the crispy outer coating and the tender chicken makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations.

How to Make Malibu Chicken

Creating this scrumptious Malibu Chicken is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time, and don’t forget to get creative with your side dishes!

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices of ham
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

  • Step 2: Seasoning

    In a shallow dish, season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.

  • Step 3: Dredging and Coating

    Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, dip it in beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.

  • Step 4: Frying

    In a skillet over medium heat, add oil. Once hot, fry the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.

  • Step 5: Baking

    After frying, place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Top each piece with a slice of ham and generously sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Step 6: Serving

    Serve warm and enjoy the scrumptious flavors of your homemade Malibu Chicken!

How to Serve Malibu Chicken

Malibu Chicken pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes, fresh steamed vegetables, or a crisp side salad. Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for an extra burst of flavor or serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Store Malibu Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Malibu Chicken

  1. Pound the Chicken Evenly: This helps it cook evenly and prevents the edges from drying out.
  2. Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: They add a better texture and flavor compared to store-bought.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the flour for more flavor.
  4. Test Oil Temperature: Use a piece of bread to test if the oil is hot enough; it should sizzle upon contact.
  5. Rest After Frying: Allow the chicken to rest on a paper towel after frying to absorb excess oil before baking.

Delicious Variations

  • Italian Style: Add Italian herbs to the breadcrumbs and serve with marinara sauce.
  • Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken filling for a kick of heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Cheesy Delight: Experiment by mixing different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I bake this recipe instead of frying?
    Yes, you can bake Malibu Chicken. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

  • How do I know when the chicken is done?
    The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.

  • Can I freeze Malibu Chicken?
    Absolutely! Freeze it after frying and before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  • Is there a gluten-free version?
    Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour, ensuring the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

  • What should I serve with Malibu Chicken?
    Mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a light salad make excellent accompaniments!

Conclusion

Malibu Chicken is a delightful, family-friendly recipe that’s sure to impress at the dinner table. With its crispy exterior and cheesy, meaty filling, it hits all the right notes on the flavor scale. Perfect for any night of the week, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to become a household favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Malibu Chicken

  • Author: mia-harper
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
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Description

A delightful dish combining tender chicken breast with ham and melted mozzarella cheese, all in a crispy breadcrumb coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices of ham
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  2. Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry in a skillet over medium heat with oil until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  5. Bake the fried chicken on a baking sheet, topped with ham and mozzarella, for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking and Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

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