Malibu Chicken Casserole

Some dishes bring back memories with just one bite, and Malibu Chicken Casserole is one of them. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping creates the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner with family or a cozy night in, this dish has a way of making any meal feel special. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packed with rich, comforting flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

The first time I made Malibu Chicken Casserole, it wasn’t just about putting ingredients together; it was about recreating a favorite childhood meal. I still remember sitting at the dinner table as my mom served her classic version of Malibu chicken—crispy, cheesy, and drizzled with that tangy Dijon sauce. It was a meal that made even an ordinary weeknight feel like a celebration. Now, turning that nostalgic dish into a casserole version means I get to enjoy those same flavors in an easier, family-friendly way. And trust me, this one is worth every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Malibu Chicken Casserole

• Easy to make – Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal prep time.
• Rich and creamy – The Dijon mustard sauce enhances the depth of flavor.
• Versatile – Customize ingredients based on your preferences.
• Crowd-pleaser – A hit at family gatherings and potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for meal prepping and freezer storage.

First-by-First Guide to Making Malibu Chicken Casserole

First: Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup chicken stock
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)

For the Casserole:

• 16 ounces penne pasta (cooked and drained)
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 ½ cups small diced ham
• 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• Dried parsley (for garnish, optional)

Second: Prepare the Creamy Dijon Sauce

1. Melt butter over medium heat in a large pot.
2. Whisk in flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually add whole milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Stir in chicken stock and heavy cream for a smooth, rich texture.
5. Add Dijon mustard and Swiss cheese, stirring until melted and fully combined.

Third: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine cooked penne pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
3. Mix in shredded chicken and diced ham, ensuring a well-distributed mixture.
4. Transfer to the baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Top with shredded Swiss cheese for a gooey, cheesy finish.

Fourth: Create the Crispy Topping

1. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a bowl.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole for a crispy, golden crust.
3. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
4. Garnish with dried parsley, if desired, before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Malibu Chicken Casserole

• Don’t skip the Dijon mustard – It adds a tangy depth that enhances the flavor.
• Use panko breadcrumbs – They create a crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Opt for high-quality Swiss cheese – For the best melt and flavor.
• Pre-cook pasta al dente – It continues cooking in the sauce, so avoid overcooking.
• Let it rest before serving – This allows the flavors to meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Malibu Chicken Casserole

• Using too much mustard – While Dijon adds flavor, too much can overpower the dish.
• Skipping the breadcrumb topping – This adds the perfect crunch; don’t leave it out!
• Overcooking the pasta – It can turn mushy after baking.
• Not mixing the sauce well – A lumpy sauce can ruin the texture.
• Forgetting to grease the baking dish – This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

FAQs About Malibu Chicken Casserole

Q: How do I make Malibu Chicken Casserole healthier?

A: Use low-fat cheese, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, and increase the amount of lean chicken.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: What side dishes go well with Malibu Chicken Casserole?

A: Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar work well too.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

Malibu Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

If you enjoy casseroles, you might also love this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe, which pairs well with mashed potatoes and green beans. For a pasta twist, check out this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe, featuring a creamy and spicy sauce. Lastly, if you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting dish, try this Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe for a slow-cooked, tender beef delight!

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