Imagine walking into your favorite restaurant, the aroma of sizzling chicken and smoky flavors wafting through the air, and you’re immediately hit with the tempting scent of a signature dish that’s been a crowd-pleaser for years. That dish? Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse. A dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a flavorful honey mustard sauce, it’s an irresistible combination that keeps customers coming back for more.
But what if you could bring that delicious flavor right to your own kitchen? You can! With this simple recipe for Alice Springs Chicken, you can recreate the Outback Steakhouse magic in the comfort of your home. Whether you’ve had it before or are new to this beloved dish, you’re in for a treat. With a few basic ingredients and a little time, you’ll be able to prepare a meal that’s as satisfying and flavorful as the one from your favorite steakhouse.
Recipe Card:
Recipe Name: Alice Springs Chicken
- Description: A flavorful chicken dish topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce—just like the famous Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 350 per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of crispy bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup honey mustard sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook them through—just get a nice color on each side.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to the baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with two slices of crispy bacon.
- Drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the chicken and bacon, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes:
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a perfect blend of flavors.
- For a healthier option, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it.
- If you like a tangier sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of honey mustard to your taste.
Nutrition Information: (Per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 7g
- Protein: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Tools used in cooking
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Skillet or Frying Pan
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Outback Steakhouse at Home
The best part about this recipe is the ability to enjoy a dish from Outback Steakhouse in the comfort of your own home. No need to wait in line or book a reservation—this recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen.
Quick and Easy
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish is quick to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Flavorful and Filling
The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a tangy honey mustard sauce is both satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a hearty dish that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.
Customizable
This recipe can be easily adjusted to your preferences. Whether you prefer more cheese or a different type of sauce, you can make this dish your own.
Kid-Friendly
With flavors that appeal to both adults and kids, this dish is perfect for family dinners. Even picky eaters will love the crispy bacon and melted cheese topping.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Chicken Breasts
The foundation of this dish is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time.
Bacon
Bacon adds a crispy, smoky element to this dish. For a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon, which still offers a savory flavor without the extra fat.
Cheese
The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack is classic, but feel free to switch things up. Swiss cheese or mozzarella would also work well. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese substitute.
Honey Mustard Sauce
While store-bought honey mustard sauce is convenient, you can easily make your own at home by combining equal parts honey and mustard with a splash of vinegar. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste.
Expert Tips for Success
Proper Chicken Searing
Be sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. This ensures that the chicken gets a nice golden crust. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.
Cook the Chicken to the Right Temperature
The key to a perfectly cooked chicken breast is reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Bacon Crispness
For the crispiest bacon, make sure to cook it until it’s fully crispy before adding it to the chicken. This will ensure the bacon maintains its texture when baked.
Don’t Overbake
Once the chicken is in the oven, keep an eye on it. Overbaking will dry out the chicken and make it less tender. Check the internal temperature at 15 minutes to avoid this.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Alice Springs Chicken
If you enjoy a little heat, you can add some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the chicken before baking. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and sweet honey mustard sauce.
Grilled Alice Springs Chicken
For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it. This adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the bacon and cheese beautifully.
Veggie Version
For a vegetarian alternative, you can swap the chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms. The mushrooms will absorb the honey mustard sauce and provide a meaty texture.
Low-Carb Version
Skip the honey mustard sauce or make a low-carb alternative to keep the dish low-carb. You can also serve the chicken without the bacon for a lighter option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage
Leftover Alice Springs Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will stay juicy, and the flavors will continue to meld together.
Reheating
To reheat the chicken, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Serving Suggestions
Alice Springs Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few options to complete your meal:
Roasted Vegetables
Try roasting a mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and zucchini. Their sweetness and crunch will complement the savory chicken.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are always a classic side to pair with any chicken dish. You can even top them with some of the honey mustard sauce for extra flavor.
Garden Salad
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing touch to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven to finish off the recipe.
Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Absolutely! While bacon adds great flavor and texture, you can leave it out if you prefer a lighter version or if you don’t eat pork.
Can I use a different sauce besides honey mustard?
While honey mustard is what makes this dish unique, you can experiment with other sauces like barbecue or ranch dressing for a different twist.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed making Alice Springs Chicken, you might also like:
- Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Salad: A lighter version of the classic, perfect for a healthy lunch.
- Outback Steakhouse Recipes: Try your hand at making other popular dishes like the Bloomin’ Onion or the Aussie-Style Ribs.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken is a dish that brings the flavors of Outback Steakhouse right into your home. With its delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is easy to follow and full of flavor. Give it a try, and you’ll soon be enjoying your favorite restaurant dish from the comfort of your kitchen!