If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you’ve likely heard of or indulged in the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe—a rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish. This hearty, restaurant-style meal is perfect for anyone craving comfort food without the hassle of dining out. Made with tender chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy honey mustard sauce, this recipe guarantees a flavor-packed experience at your dinner table.
At Recipes Chrono, we believe in bringing people together through simple and accessible cooking. This copycat version of the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe combines restaurant-quality flavors with easy techniques, making it a must-try for busy parents, home cooks, or anyone seeking a standout dinner idea. Pair it with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Looking for another crowd-pleasing chicken dinner? Try this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for a creamy, flavorful alternative.
Table of contents
History of the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Explore the dish’s origins and its connection to Outback Steakhouse. Highlight how it became a popular menu item and why it resonates with diners worldwide. Discuss its association with Australian culture and how the name adds to its charm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Alice Springs Chicken Recipe stands out for its unique balance of flavors and textures. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your dinner rotation:
- Rich, Savory, and Creamy: The honey mustard sauce combines tangy Dijon mustard, sweet honey, and smooth mayonnaise to create a perfect flavor base.
- Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Melted Colby Jack cheese blankets the chicken, adding creamy indulgence.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is easily customizable for various dietary needs, such as low-carb or keto-friendly versions.
- Perfect for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe offers simple steps to success.
Want a lighter option? Use turkey bacon or swap out Colby Jack for a lower-fat cheese. Love copycat recipes? Check out this Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Copycat Recipe for an easy lunch idea!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Outback-inspired chicken recipe:
For the Honey Mustard Sauce
- ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1½ cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Substitutions
- Cheese: Swap Colby Jack for Monterey Jack or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Meat: Turkey bacon works well for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially sauces and mustard.
Looking for more creamy and cheesy chicken dishes? Don’t miss this Chicken Parmesan Alfredo Recipe.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet: For pan-searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms.
- Baking Dish: To finish the chicken in the oven.
- Mixing Bowl: For whisking the honey mustard sauce.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken during cooking.
- Sharp Knife: To slice the mushrooms and chicken.
These basic tools make preparation a breeze and ensure restaurant-quality results from your home kitchen.
Marinating Tips for Maximum Flavor
Provide a deep dive into the art of marinating chicken. Include tips such as:
- Why marinating for at least 4 hours enhances tenderness and flavor.
- The role of acidity in breaking down chicken fibers.
- Substituting lemon juice or apple cider vinegar in the marinade for tanginess.
- How to store marinated chicken safely.
How to Make It a Crowd-Pleaser
Offer tips for scaling up the recipe for gatherings or dinner parties. Discuss how to prepare the dish in advance and how to serve it buffet-style with toppings and sauces on the side.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and minced garlic.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, reserving the rest for serving.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Prepare the Toppings
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms in a tablespoon of olive oil until tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Pan-Sear the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and sear each breast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and a generous layer of shredded cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy
- Drizzle the reserved honey mustard sauce over the chicken before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Discuss variations in cooking styles:
- Grilling: For a smoky flavor, cook the chicken on a grill instead of pan-searing.
- Air Fryer: Tips for making a crispier version of Alice Springs Chicken.
- Slow Cooker: How to adapt the recipe for a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
Recipe Notes and Variations
Tips for Success
- Thinly slice chicken breasts for quicker, even cooking.
- Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Customizations
- Add Heat: Mix hot honey or a pinch of cayenne into the honey mustard sauce.
- Use Thighs: Opt for boneless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier flavor.
Dietary Adjustments
- For a keto-friendly version, use sugar-free honey substitute and skip the mayonnaise.
- Make it dairy-free by using vegan cheese and coconut-based cream in the sauce.
Seasonal Variations for Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to seasonal ingredients and flavors, making it suitable for any time of the year. Here are some ways to tailor the recipe to match the season:
Spring and Summer Variations
- Add Fresh Herbs: Brighten the dish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill. These additions enhance the honey mustard sauce’s tangy sweetness and give the meal a lighter, summery feel.
- Incorporate Citrus Zest: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the sauce for a refreshing twist.
- Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor that pairs well with summer sides like corn on the cob or a crisp garden salad.
- Serve with Seasonal Veggies: Pair the dish with fresh asparagus, zucchini, or a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
Fall and Winter Variations
- Hearty Side Dishes: Replace lighter sides with roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory bacon and cheese topping.
- Rich Sauces: Add a touch of garlic or thyme to the honey mustard sauce for a more robust, warming flavor.
- Comfort Food Pairings: Serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or a baked mac and cheese for ultimate cold-weather comfort.
- Seasonal Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or dried cranberries over the chicken for a festive, wintry touch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Alice Springs Chicken with these mouthwatering sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Loaded Baked Potato
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Honey-Glazed Carrots
- Creamy Mac and Cheese or Parmesan Asparagus
Complete your steakhouse-inspired meal with a Caesar Salad or a warm house dinner roll. Want more dinner ideas? Pair this dish with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Crockpot Recipe.
Storage and Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain texture and flavor.
This dish is protein-packed and can easily fit into a low-carb or high-protein diet with minor adjustments.
FAQs
What is the Alice Springs Chicken at Outback?
Alice Springs Chicken is a signature dish from Outback Steakhouse. It features grilled chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted Colby Jack cheese. This hearty, flavorful meal is a popular comfort food choice that combines savory, cheesy, and smoky elements into a single dish.
Why is it called Alice Springs Chicken?
The dish is named after Alice Springs, a famous town in the Northern Territory of Australia. Outback Steakhouse often draws inspiration from Australian names and locations, even for dishes that don’t have a direct connection to Australian cuisine. Alice Springs Chicken reflects the restaurant’s theme while offering a universally appealing flavor profile.
Is Alice Springs Chicken healthy?
Alice Springs Chicken can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with healthy sides like roasted vegetables or a side salad. It’s protein-packed thanks to the chicken and features fresh ingredients like mushrooms. However, the cheese, bacon, and honey mustard sauce contribute to higher fat and calorie counts. For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon, a reduced-fat cheese, and a sugar-free honey mustard sauce.
What is Chicken Mary?
Chicken Mary, often referred to in Southern-style cooking, is a fried chicken dish known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior. It typically involves marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk before coating them in seasoned flour and frying. While distinct from Alice Springs Chicken, Chicken Mary shares its comfort food appeal and ability to satisfy cravings for a hearty chicken dish.
Final Thoughts
Alice Springs Chicken is more than just a copycat recipe; it’s a celebration of bold, comforting flavors that bring people together. With its juicy chicken, creamy honey mustard sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory and indulgent. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite for your family or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. You can customize it to fit your dietary needs, pair it with a variety of sides, and even prepare it ahead of time for those busy weeknights. It’s comfort food at its finest, without requiring hours in the kitchen.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below—I’d love to hear how your Alice Springs Chicken turned out!
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Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Recreate the famous Alice Springs Chicken Recipe from Outback Steakhouse! Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a creamy honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. This smothered chicken dish is the perfect family-friendly dinner idea, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1½ cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and minced garlic.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and coat with half of the honey mustard sauce. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms: Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
- Pan-Sear the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Sear in the skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with mushrooms, bacon, and shredded cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Drizzle the reserved honey mustard sauce over the chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Substitute Colby Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend for a flavor variation.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, including Dijon mustard and honey, are certified gluten-free.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne or use hot honey in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Australian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 980mg
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Alice Springs Chicken Recipe, Outback Steakhouse Chicken, Honey Mustard Chicken, Smothered Chicken