Malibu Chicken (Sizzler Copycat Recipe) – Crispy, Cheesy, and Smothered in Savory Goodness!

This Malibu Chicken is a delicious recreation of the famous dish from Sizzler, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves crispy chicken topped with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese. With the added punch of a tangy mustard-mayo sauce, each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. This homemade version will quickly become a family favorite, offering all the deliciousness of the original right in your own kitchen!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Malibu Chicken

Inspired by Sizzler’s beloved dish, this homemade Malibu Chicken offers a mouthwatering combination of crispy, breaded chicken cutlets topped with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese. The creamy mustard-mayo sauce adds a tangy finish that ties everything together. Whether you're making this for a special dinner or a fun weeknight meal, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors to your table. The best part? It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Malibu Chicken Recipe

This dish is everything you love about comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. The golden-breaded chicken is fried to perfection, while the ham and Swiss cheese add a savory, creamy element that takes this dish to the next level. The tangy mustard-mayo sauce provides the perfect contrast, cutting through the richness with just the right amount of zing. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in your kitchen with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 610 kcal
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 43g
• Sodium: 1040mg
• Fiber: 1g

This dish is rich and satisfying, perfect for when you're craving something hearty and flavorful.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Malibu Chicken is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a restaurant-style touch, consider adding a side of garlic bread or a baked potato. If you're feeling indulgent, make a batch of crispy French fries or onion rings to serve on the side. For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade would balance out the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop, just be careful not to overcook the chicken to avoid drying it out. The mustard-mayo sauce can be stored separately and drizzled on just before serving.

Fun Fact: What Makes Malibu Chicken Unique?

Malibu Chicken is a unique dish because it combines flavors and textures you wouldn’t normally expect together—crispy chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese. It’s like a hybrid between a schnitzel and a classic ham-and-cheese sandwich, all brought together with a tangy mustard-mayo sauce. This unlikely combination has made it a standout dish at Sizzler for decades, and now you can enjoy it at home!

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Cooking Tips

Frying Perfection: Be sure to heat your oil and butter properly before frying the chicken. This ensures a crispy, golden crust. Test the oil with a small piece of breadcrumb before adding the chicken—it should sizzle right away. Cheese Layering: For the perfect cheesy finish, layer the Swiss cheese on top of the ham and bake just until it melts. If you want extra gooeyness, add an additional slice of cheese on top! Mustard-Mayo Balance: The ratio of mustard to mayo in the sauce can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a tangier sauce, increase the mustard slightly.

Optional Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breading mixture for a spicy twist. Grain-Free: Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a grain-free option. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Malibu Chicken (Sizzler Copycat Recipe)

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices ham
• 12 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1-2 cups fine breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning (or substitute with Cajun seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (or a mix of yellow and Dijon mustard)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
2. • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place the chicken breasts in a large plastic bag and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Set Up a Breading Station:
4. • In three separate bowls or shallow containers, add the following:
   • • Bowl 1: Flour
     • Bowl 2: Buttermilk and egg, whisked together
     • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, onion powder, garlic salt, and black pepper.
5. Bread the Chicken:
6. • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, letting any extra drip off. Finally, coat it generously in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
7. Fry the Chicken:
8. • Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts in batches, frying for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Bake with Ham and Cheese:
10. • Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Top each piece with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a slice of ham, and then another slice of Swiss cheese.
    • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling slightly.
11. Prepare the Sauce:
12. • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and mustard until smooth and well combined. Adjust the mustard to taste if you prefer a tangier sauce.
13. Serve:
14. • Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately, drizzling the mustard-mayo sauce over the top or serving it on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Malibu Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress! With its crispy, golden chicken, savory ham, and gooey melted Swiss cheese, each bite is packed with deliciousness. The tangy mustard-mayo sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying it as leftovers, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!