If you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse, you’ve likely heard of their popular Alice Springs Chicken. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts layered with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and a delicious honey mustard sauce. It’s a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to recreate at home.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make this Outback copycat recipe from scratch, using simple ingredients. I’ll guide you through every step, from marinating the chicken to preparing the honey mustard sauce.
But first, if you’re looking for more delicious comfort food recipes, check out this mouth-watering Perfect Peach Cobbler with Canned Peaches as a great dessert to pair with your chicken.
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
The Alice Springs Chicken recipe is an Outback Steakhouse classic. This dish is named after the town of Alice Springs in Australia and features grilled chicken smothered in bacon, mushrooms, and cheese, all topped with a honey mustard sauce. It’s a rich, hearty meal that’s incredibly satisfying.
While the dish may sound complicated, it’s actually quite easy to make at home. With a few key ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.
If you’re looking to save time in the kitchen, consider preparing quick and easy side dishes, like the ones featured in this Microwave Peach Crisp Recipe, which can be ready in minutes.
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken recipe
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make Alice Springs Chicken at home:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
- Fresh mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
- Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese
- Honey mustard sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Olive oil for grilling or pan-frying
- Salt, pepper, and garlic for seasoning
To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add a bit of honey mustard sauce to the marinade for a deeper flavor profile.
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Marinate the chicken breasts in a blend of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken sit for 30 minutes, or even overnight, if time allows.
2. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
- Mix together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a homemade honey mustard sauce. Adjust the balance of sweet and tangy to your liking.
3. Cook the Bacon
- Fry thick-cut bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. Set aside the bacon and use the leftover fat to sauté the mushrooms.
4. Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms in bacon fat or olive oil until they’re golden and soft.
6. Assemble the Alice Springs Chicken
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Layer the mushrooms and bacon on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
7. Serve with Honey Mustard Sauce
- Drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, or serve it on the side for dipping.
Nutritional Information for Alice Springs Chicken
While this dish is loaded with flavor, it’s also a bit indulgent. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 600-700 calories
- Protein: 45-50g
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g (mainly from the honey mustard sauce)
To lighten up the dish, consider using turkey bacon and low-fat cheese, or serving it with a fresh salad.
Cooking Methods for Alice Springs Chicken
1. Oven-Baked Version
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the marinated chicken for 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Add the toppings and broil for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
2. Skillet Method
- For a quicker method, cook the chicken breasts in a skillet. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, then broil with the bacon, mushrooms, and cheese.
3. Grilled Alice Springs Chicken
- For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat, then assemble and broil as directed.
If you’re in the mood for something different to pair with your meal, check out this Delicious Crock-Pot Peach Cobbler Recipe for a slow-cooked dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is not overcooked by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skipping the Bacon Pre-Cook: Always pre-cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the chicken. This ensures it stays crispy after broiling.
- Using Too Much Sauce: Avoid drowning the chicken in sauce—too much honey mustard can overpower the other flavors.
Serving and Storing Alice Springs Chicken
Serving Suggestions
Pair Alice Springs Chicken with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. This dish is rich, so a fresh side helps to balance out the flavors.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of cheese is used in Alice Springs Chicken?
Typically, a combination of Monterey Jack and Cheddar is used, but feel free to substitute with Colby Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bacon ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble and broil for a quick meal.
Can I substitute the bacon in Alice Springs Chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter version, or omit it altogether if you’re avoiding pork.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it sit in the fridge overnight.
Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and easy recipe that combines the rich flavors of bacon, cheese, mushrooms, and honey mustard sauce. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or searing the chicken, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it with light sides and enjoy this hearty meal with a crowd-pleasing dessert like a Perfect Peach Cobbler for the ultimate dinner experience.