Alice Springs Chicken Recipe – Outback Steakhouse Copycat

Alice Springs Chicken is a signature dish from Outback Steakhouse, known for its rich, savory flavors and creamy texture. This dish features juicy chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can recreate in your own kitchen with ease.

In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe to make Alice Springs Chicken at home. Along the way, you’ll learn tips, tricks, and variations to tailor the dish to your preferences.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Restaurant-Quality at Home

Recreate the indulgent flavors of Outback Steakhouse without leaving your house.

2. Simple Ingredients

You’ll need only pantry staples and fresh chicken to prepare this dish.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Adjust the toppings, sauce, or cheese to suit your taste.

Key Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken

Here are the essential ingredients to replicate this classic dish:

1. Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this recipe. Choose high-quality chicken for the best results.

2. Honey Mustard Sauce

This creamy and tangy sauce ties the dish together. You can use store-bought honey mustard or make your own with honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise.

3. Bacon

Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch.

4. Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

5. Cheese

Shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese are melted on top, creating a gooey, indulgent finish.

6. Seasonings

Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper enhance the chicken’s flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Alice Springs Chicken

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup honey mustard sauce (store-bought or homemade)
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer them to a baking dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms for 4–5 minutes until softened. Set aside.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts.
Add the sautéed mushrooms on top.
Place 2 slices of bacon on each chicken breast.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

1. Use a Meat Thermometer

Ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection by checking its internal temperature.

2. Customize the Cheese

Swap Monterey Jack and cheddar with your favorite cheeses, like Swiss or provolone.

3. Make It Healthier

Use turkey bacon and low-fat cheese for a lighter version of the dish.

Variations of Alice Springs Chicken

1. Spicy Alice Springs Chicken

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce for a kick of heat.

2. Vegetarian Version

Replace chicken with large portobello mushroom caps for a vegetarian twist.

3. Grilled Version

Instead of baking, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Alice Springs Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the savory chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots are healthy and delicious options.
Rice Pilaf: The mild flavor of rice balances the richness of the chicken.
Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storage

Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay moist during cooking.

2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Prepare the chicken and toppings in advance, then bake just before serving.

3. How Can I Make Honey Mustard Sauce at Home?

Mix 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a quick homemade version.

Conclusion

Alice Springs Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to recreate at home. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow this recipe to bring the flavors of Outback Steakhouse to your kitchen and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal any night of the week.