If you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse, chances are you’ve fallen in love with their Alice Springs Chicken recipe. This beloved dish features juicy, seasoned chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Recreating this restaurant favorite at home is easier than you think with this Alice Springs chicken copycat recipe!
Whether you prefer grilled Alice Springs chicken or a baked version, this recipe delivers all the flavor of the original. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken with bold, savory toppings that make every bite unforgettable. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, ingredient tips, and creative variations for the best homemade Alice Springs chicken ever.
What Is Alice Springs Chicken?
The Outback Alice Springs chicken is one of the most popular dishes on the Outback Steakhouse menu. Inspired by bold Australian flavors, this dish is named after Alice Springs, a remote yet iconic town in Australia. It combines savory and sweet elements, making it a perfect comfort food that appeals to a wide range of palates.
This dish became famous for its unique layering of ingredients: chicken topped with cheese and bacon, honey mustard sauce, and mushrooms, all baked to perfection. While the original is grilled at Outback Steakhouse, many home cooks opt for a baked version that’s just as delicious.
Why Alice Springs Chicken Copycat Recipes Are Popular?
Recreating the Alice Springs chicken copycat recipe at home has become a trend among food lovers. Why? It’s simple, cost-effective, and allows you to enjoy the restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your home. Plus, making this dish at home means you can customize it—whether it’s adding more cheese, swapping the toppings, or tweaking the honey mustard sauce.
This easy Alice Springs chicken recipe is also versatile. You can prepare it for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep since it reheats beautifully.
Key Features of This Chicken with Cheese and Bacon Dish
The beauty of Alice Springs chicken with cheese and bacon lies in its layers of flavors:
- Juicy Chicken Breast: The chicken is marinated to enhance tenderness and infused with flavor.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and creamy, this sauce ties all the elements together.
- Crispy Bacon: Adds a salty, smoky crunch.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy and rich, they balance the sweetness of the honey mustard.
- Melted Cheese: A generous layer of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese crowns the dish.
With these elements, Alice Springs chicken with mushrooms becomes a flavorful, indulgent meal that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
To create the perfect homemade Alice Springs chicken, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients that bring this Outback classic to life:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the foundation of this dish. Choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: The star of the recipe! You can use store-bought or make your own with Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for a smoky, crispy topping.
- Mushrooms: Fresh button or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced, add a savory, earthy flavor.
- Cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend of both provides a gooey, melty topping.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to season the chicken and enhance its flavor.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the mushrooms and preparing the chicken.
The Perfect Alice Springs Chicken Marinade
The marinade is a crucial step in this Alice Springs chicken copycat recipe, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. To make the marinade:
- Ingredients: Combine ½ cup honey, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a dash of garlic powder.
- How to Marinate: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).
- Pro Tip: Reserve some marinade to brush over the chicken during cooking for added flavor.
Optional Add-Ins for Enhanced Flavor
Elevate your chicken recipe with honey mustard sauce by adding these optional ingredients:
- Barbecue Sauce: Mix a tablespoon of barbecue sauce into the honey mustard for a smoky twist.
- Onions: Caramelized onions can be added alongside the mushrooms for extra sweetness.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of freshness.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the marinade for a hint of heat.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make Alice Springs chicken with cheese and bacon that’s as flavorful as the Outback original.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Preparing the Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
The first step in making Alice Springs chicken with honey mustard and bacon is preparing the chicken and sauce:
- Marinate the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade (made earlier) and let the excess drip off. Reserve some marinade for basting during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet as it will finish in the oven.
Cooking Alice Springs Chicken with Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms are a key element of this Outback Alice Springs chicken recipe:
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté the sliced mushrooms over medium heat for 5–6 minutes until tender and browned. Set them aside.
- Prepare the Bacon: While the mushrooms are cooking, fry the bacon in a separate pan or bake it in the oven until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble or leave in strips, depending on your preference.
Adding Cheese, Bacon, and Finishing Touches
Now it’s time to assemble and bake your Alice Springs chicken baked:
- Layer the Toppings: Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over each piece, followed by the sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Serve this Alice Springs chicken with barbecue sauce or extra honey mustard on the side for dipping, along with your favorite sides.
For pairing ideas, check out What Pairs Well With Rotisserie Chicken to find the perfect sides.
Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
Achieving the Best Honey Mustard Flavor
The honey mustard sauce is what ties this Alice Springs chicken recipe together, so getting the flavor balance right is essential:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for Dijon mustard and pure honey for the richest flavor. Avoid overly sweet or artificial honey substitutes.
- Taste and Adjust: Before using the sauce, taste it and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking. Add a splash of lemon juice if you want a bit more zing.
- Reserve Extra Sauce: Save a portion of the honey mustard to serve as a dipping sauce alongside the finished dish.
Perfectly Baked or Grilled Alice Springs Chicken
Whether you’re baking or grilling, here are tips to ensure your grilled Alice Springs chicken or baked version turns out perfectly:
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
- For Grilling: Grill the chicken over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, then add toppings and close the lid for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.
Storage and Reheating for Leftovers
If you have leftover homemade Alice Springs chicken, here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Storage: Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a little extra honey mustard sauce if the chicken seems dry.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
These tips will ensure your Alice Springs chicken with cheese and bacon is just as flavorful the next day.
For more creative chicken recipes, visit Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a zesty, creamy pasta option.
Variations of Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Alice Springs Chicken Baked vs. Grilled
While the Alice Springs chicken baked method is a classic and easy option, grilling adds a smoky flavor that many people love. Here’s how to choose:
- Baked: Perfect for when you want a hands-off approach. Baking ensures even cooking and is ideal for layering toppings before finishing the dish in the oven.
- Grilled: Grilling brings out a slightly charred flavor in the chicken. After grilling, transfer the chicken to indirect heat to melt the cheese and finish the toppings.
Either method produces a delicious dish, so it depends on your preference and available tools.
Healthy Alternatives for a Lighter Dish
You can lighten up this easy Alice Springs chicken recipe with a few simple substitutions:
- Swap Bacon for Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon for a leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Replace full-fat cheese with reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Light Honey Mustard: Make a lighter version of the sauce by mixing plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and a drizzle of honey.
- Grill Instead of Bake: Grilling reduces the need for added fats, making this dish even lighter.
These changes allow you to enjoy Alice Springs chicken ingredients without compromising on flavor.
Spicy Version: Alice Springs Chicken with Barbecue Sauce
For those who enjoy a little heat, try spicing up this chicken recipe with honey mustard sauce:
- Add Barbecue Sauce: Mix barbecue sauce into the honey mustard for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Spicy Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Cayenne in the Marinade: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a subtle kick.
- Top with Jalapeños: Finish the dish with sliced jalapeños for a bold, spicy topping.
This variation is perfect for anyone looking to add a fiery twist to their Alice Springs chicken with mushrooms.
For more chicken inspiration, try Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a slow-cooked, creamy option, or explore Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta for a delicious pasta variation.
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, Alice Springs chicken copycat recipe is a great make-ahead dish! Here’s how:
- Marinate the Chicken: Prepare and marinate the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance.
- Prep the Toppings: Cook the bacon and sauté the mushrooms ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Assemble When Ready: When it’s time to cook, layer the toppings and bake or grill as directed.
This method saves time, especially for dinner parties or busy weeknights.
How Do You Prevent the Cheese from Overcooking?
To ensure the cheese melts perfectly without becoming hard or overcooked:
- Add the Cheese Toward the End: Wait until the last 5–10 minutes of baking to add the shredded cheese and toppings.
- Broil Carefully: If using the broiler to melt the cheese, keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Use Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese melts faster and more evenly compared to slices.
What Sides Pair Best with Alice Springs Chicken?
This chicken topped with cheese and bacon pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes balance the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are healthy, flavorful options.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice makes a great base to soak up the honey mustard sauce.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Can I Use Store-Bought Honey Mustard Sauce?
Yes, store-bought honey mustard sauce works well for this Alice Springs chicken with honey mustard and bacon recipe. However, making your own allows you to adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
Is Alice Springs Chicken Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, this homemade Alice Springs chicken can be frozen:
- Before Baking: Assemble the chicken with toppings (excluding the cheese) and freeze it uncooked. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add cheese and bake as directed.
- After Cooking: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
This makes the dish convenient for meal prep or busy nights.
Conclusion: Why Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Is a Must-Try
The Alice Springs chicken recipe is the ultimate combination of bold flavors and comfort food. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and a rich honey mustard sauce, this dish offers a restaurant-quality meal you can easily recreate at home. Whether baked or grilled, it’s a versatile recipe that suits both busy weeknights and special occasions.
This Alice Springs chicken copycat recipe allows you to enjoy all the flavors of Outback Steakhouse without leaving your kitchen. From its customizable toppings to its simple preparation, it’s perfect for impressing your family or guests. Plus, with tips for storage, reheating, and variations, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this classic dish.
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines sweetness, smokiness, and creaminess all in one bite, this homemade Alice Springs chicken is a must-try. Get your ingredients ready and bring the flavors of Outback Steakhouse to your table today!