Alice Springs Chicken: A Delicious Recipe You Must Try

Are you craving that rich, cheesy, and oh-so-flavorful Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse? Well, good news—you don’t have to go out to enjoy it! This homemade version will have your taste buds singing, and best of all, you can tweak it just the way you like. Whether you’re a fan of melty cheese, crispy bacon, or that irresistible honey mustard sauce, this recipe has got you covered.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything—from the history of this famous dish to the best cooking techniques, secret ingredients, and even tips to avoid common mistakes. Let’s get cooking!

What is Alice Springs Chicken?

First things first—what exactly is Alice Springs Chicken? If you’ve ever been to Outback Steakhouse, you’ve probably seen this dish on the menu. It’s a flavor-packed grilled chicken breast, topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy honey mustard sauce. The result? A perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and tangy goodness.

The Origin and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Alice Springs Chicken gets its name from Alice Springs, Australia, a small town in the heart of the Outback. But despite its Australian name, this dish is a purely American steakhouse favorite. It was created to bring a fusion of bold flavors to Outback Steakhouse’s menu, quickly becoming one of the most popular non-steak items.

Why This Dish is So Popular

What makes this dish a fan favorite? Here’s why people can’t get enough of it:

• Cheese & Bacon Magic: Everything tastes better with cheese and bacon, right?
• That Signature Honey Mustard Sauce: Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweetness.
• Juicy, Flavorful Chicken: The marination process ensures every bite is tender and packed with flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a batch and enjoy it for days.

Ingredients for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about what you’ll need. High-quality ingredients make all the difference!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup honey mustard sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Cheddar cheese
• 6 slices of crispy bacon
• 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe, but if you want an even juicier bite, try using chicken thighs! They have more fat, which means more flavor.

The Secret to the Perfect Honey Mustard Sauce

While you can grab a bottle from the store, homemade honey mustard sauce takes this dish to the next level.

Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Simply whisk these ingredients together, and you’re good to go!

Best Cheese for Melting Over the Chicken

Colby Jack or Cheddar cheese works best for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a creamier texture.

Essential Seasonings and Herbs

To make this dish truly sing, the right blend of spices is crucial. A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper ensures deep, rich flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

The first step to making this dish truly flavorful is marinating the chicken. This helps infuse it with delicious honey mustard goodness.

Marinade Instructions:

• Place the chicken breasts in a bowl or a zip-top bag.
• Pour ½ cup of honey mustard sauce over the chicken.
• Make sure each piece is fully coated.
• Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for the best flavor).

Proper Searing Techniques for Juicy Chicken

Now, let’s get that beautiful golden crust on the chicken! Here’s how:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (let the excess drip off).
3. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Set the chicken aside on a plate.

Layering the Ingredients: The Key to a Flavor Explosion

This is where the magic happens! We’re layering flavor upon flavor:

1. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Place the seared chicken breasts into a baking dish.
4. Top each piece with crispy bacon strips.
5. Spoon the sautéed mushrooms over the bacon.
6. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard sauce evenly.
7. Finish with a generous layer of shredded cheese.

The Best Way to Bake Alice Springs Chicken

Now, it’s time to bake everything to melty, golden perfection:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
4. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.

That’s it! You’ve got a restaurant-quality Alice Springs Chicken ready to enjoy.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Even the best recipes can have a few hiccups. If you’ve ever tried making Alice Springs Chicken and ran into issues, don’t worry! Here are some common issues and their solutions.

Why is My Chicken Too Dry?

Dry chicken can ruin an otherwise perfect dish. Here’s why it happens and how to fix it:

How to Prevent Dry Chicken:

• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Marinate Longer: The honey mustard marinade helps keep the chicken moist—let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.
• Cover While Baking: Baking with foil for the first half of the cook time helps retain moisture.

How to Prevent the Cheese from Burning

Cheese is a key part of this dish, but if it burns, it can ruin the flavor. Here’s how to prevent it:

• Add the Cheese Later: If your cheese tends to burn, add it during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Use a Good Melting Cheese: Colby Jack and Cheddar melt beautifully without burning too fast.
• Loosely Cover with Foil: This helps the cheese melt evenly while protecting it from burning.

My Sauce is Too Thin or Too Thick – Fixing Sauce Consistency

The honey mustard sauce should be creamy, not runny or gloopy. If your sauce isn’t just right, here’s what to do:

Fixing Thin Sauce:

• Add a little more mayo to thicken it.
• Refrigerate the sauce for 10-15 minutes before using.

Fixing Thick Sauce:

• Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of warm water.
• Whisk until smooth.

How to Keep the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Chicken

No one wants soggy bacon! To keep it crispy while ensuring the chicken stays juicy, try this:

• Pre-Cook the Bacon: Crisp up the bacon in a pan before placing it on the chicken.
• Use a Wire Rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack instead of a dish allows air circulation, keeping the bacon crisp.

Expert Tips for the Best Alice Springs Chicken

Want to take this dish to the next level? Here are some expert tips:

The Best Marinade Time for Extra Flavor

The longer the chicken sits in the honey mustard marinade, the better it tastes. If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it sit overnight.

How to Make It in an Air Fryer or Slow Cooker

Want to try a different cooking method? Here’s how:

Air Fryer Instructions:

• Marinate the chicken as usual.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Add toppings and air fry for another 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Slow Cooker Instructions:

• Marinate the chicken and place it in the slow cooker.
• Slow cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
• Add bacon, mushrooms, cheese, and let it cook for another 15 minutes until melted.

Secret Ingredients That Take It to the Next Level

Looking to take your Alice Springs Chicken to the next level? Try these add-ins:

• A Dash of Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• A Splash of Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami taste.
• A Drizzle of Hot Honey: For a sweet and spicy kick!

Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with Alice Springs Chicken?

Now that your Alice Springs Chicken is ready, what should you serve it with? Here are some great pairings:

Best Side Dishes for a Complete Meal

Top Side Dishes:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and buttery, they balance the smoky flavors.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Adds a fresh, healthy contrast.
• Loaded Baked Potato: A steakhouse classic!
• Buttery Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Drink and Beverage Pairing Recommendations

Looking for the perfect drink to pair with this dish? Try these:

• Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay complements the cheese and bacon.
• Classic Lemonade: The sweetness cuts through the richness of the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Properly

So, you made a delicious batch of Alice Springs Chicken, but what if you have leftovers? No worries—this dish stores and reheats beautifully if you do it right!

The Best Methods for Storing in the Refrigerator or Freezer

Refrigerator Storage:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Storage:

• Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out the Chicken

Reheating chicken can be tricky—you don’t want it to turn dry or rubbery. Here’s the best way to warm it up:

Oven Reheating (Best Method):

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Stovetop Reheating:

• Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add a teaspoon of butter or olive oil.
• Cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until warm.

Microwave Reheating (Fastest):

• Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel.
• Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Healthier Versions of Alice Springs Chicken

Love the flavor but want a healthier version? No problem! Here are some ways to lighten up this dish while keeping it delicious.

Low-Carb and Keto Variations

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, here’s how to tweak the recipe:

• Swap the Honey Mustard: Use a sugar-free honey mustard or mix Dijon mustard with a low-carb sweetener.
• Choose a Low-Carb Cheese: Stick with full-fat cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella.
• Pair with Keto-Friendly Sides: Serve with roasted cauliflower or a fresh spinach salad.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Alternatives

Need a dairy-free or gluten-free version? Try these substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Cheese: Use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Dairy-Free Sauce: Replace mayo with a dairy-free alternative like avocado mayo.
• Gluten-Free Seasonings: Check labels to ensure spices and sauces are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

Alice Springs Chicken isn’t just another chicken dish—it’s a flavor-packed meal that combines sweet, smoky, cheesy, and tangy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a steakhouse-style dinner at home, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: Simple steps with big rewards.
• Perfectly Juicy: Thanks to the marinade and baking method.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love it!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it once, enjoy it all week.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s bring the flavors of Outback Steakhouse to your kitchen!

Nutrition Facts

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (1 Chicken Breast):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 7g

These numbers are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

For more inspiration:

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To maintain its crispy texture, reheat chicken in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Curious about calorie content? Check out how many calories are in Alice Springs Chicken for a full breakdown.