Outback Steakhouse is renowned for its hearty, flavorful dishes, and one of its standout items is the Alice Springs Chicken. This dish, named after a region in Australia, features juicy chicken breasts topped with tangy honey mustard sauce, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a gooey layer of melted cheese. It perfectly balances smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
While dining at Outback is always a treat, you can recreate this fan-favorite dish in your kitchen. This article provides a step-by-step recipe for a spot-on Alice Springs Chicken copycat, with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Why This Copycat Recipe Works
Authentic Flavor
We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to replicate the exact taste and texture of the original dish, including the signature honey mustard sauce.
Simple Ingredients
This recipe is easy to prepare with pantry staples and fresh chicken without compromising flavor.
Customizable
Whether you prefer spicier sauces or different cheeses, this recipe is flexible enough to adapt to your tastes.
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken
For the Chicken:
- Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- One teaspoon of garlic powder
- One teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- Eight slices of crispy bacon
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms, sautéed
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup honey
- Two tablespoons mayonnaise
Step-by-Step Recipe for Alice Springs Chicken
This recipe serves four and takes about one hour to prepare and cook.
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
The honey mustard sauce is the star of this dish, tying together the flavors of the chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and cheese.
Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth.
Reserve half of the sauce for marinating the chicken and the other half for drizzling over the finished dish or as a dipping sauce.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken. Marinating ensures the chicken absorbs the tangy and sweet flavors of the sauce.
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Searing locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust on the chicken.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the used marinade) and sear each breast for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor to the dish.
In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned.
Set the mushrooms aside.
Step 5: Layer the Toppings
The toppings turn this dish into a true showstopper.
Spread a generous layer of the reserved honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast.
Add sautéed mushrooms evenly on top.
Place two slices of crispy bacon on each chicken breast.
Sprinkle a mix of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the bacon and mushrooms.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Baking ensures the chicken is fully cooked and allows the toppings to meld together.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Garnish and Serve. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain its juices.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh chicken, mushrooms, and cheese enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Balance the Sauce
Adjust the honey-to-mustard ratio in the sauce to suit your taste—more honey for sweetness, more mustard for tang.
Prevent Dry Chicken
Marinating and covering the chicken while baking helps retain moisture.
Grate Your Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Shredding your cheese ensures a smoother, creamier finish.
Serving Suggestions
Alice Springs Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables
Carrots, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh, healthy contrast.
Rice Pilaf
The mild flavor of rice pilaf balances the tangy, cheesy chicken.
Garlic Bread
Use the bread to soak the extra honey mustard sauce for an irresistible treat.
Variations of Alice Springs Chicken
BBQ Alice Springs Chicken
Swap the honey mustard sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
Spicy Alice Springs Chicken
Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Keto-Friendly Version
Use sugar-free honey mustard sauce and skip the flour or breadcrumbs.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the chicken breasts with thick portobello mushroom caps for a plant-based alternative.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes to retain texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Freezing
- Freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook faster.
Can I Grill the Chicken Instead of Baking It?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the chicken. After grilling, layer the toppings and melt the cheese under a broiler.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and toppings in advance, then bake just before serving.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
Swiss cheese, provolone, or mozzarella are excellent substitutes for Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Conclusion
Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a classic restaurant you can now enjoy at home. This copycat recipe replicates the rich flavors and textures of the original dish, from the tangy honey mustard sauce to the gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon.
This recipe will surely impress whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Try it today and bring a taste of Outback to your kitchen!