Introduction:
If you’re dining at Outback Steakhouse, you’ve probably noticed the Alice Springs Chicken on the menu. Known for its savory blend of grilled chicken, bacon, melted cheese, honey mustard, and sautéed mushrooms, this dish is both indulgent and flavorful. But how many calories are in Outback Alice Springs Chicken? Understanding its calorie count and nutritional breakdown can help you make informed dining choices.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the calorie count of the Alice Springs Chicken, explore the nutritional profile, and share tips on how to enjoy this popular dish without compromising your health goals.
Nutritional Overview of Outback Alice Springs Chicken
The Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse is a hearty dish known for its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients. Let’s break down the nutritional composition to understand what makes this dish so calorie-dense.
Ingredients and Their Nutritional Contributions
The Alice Springs Chicken is crafted with a mix of flavorful ingredients that each contribute to its overall calorie count and nutritional profile. Here’s what’s included:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: The base of the dish, rich in protein but low in calories compared to other meats.
- Bacon: Adds a salty crunch but also increases the fat and calorie content.
- Monterey Jack and Cheddar Cheese: These melted cheeses are delicious but calorie-heavy due to their fat content.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: While low in calories, they enhance the dish with a rich, umami flavor.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy addition that significantly contributes to the dish’s calorie count due to its sugar and fat content.
Nutritional Breakdown of Key Components
To give a comprehensive view of the dish, here’s the approximate calorie and macronutrient breakdown for a standard serving of Outback Alice Springs Chicken (based on typical restaurant preparations):
| Ingredient | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Breast | ~200 | ~30 | ~4 | ~0 |
| Bacon (2-3 slices) | ~120 | ~6 | ~10 | ~0 |
| Cheese Blend (1-2 slices) | ~200 | ~10 | ~16 | ~1 |
| Sautéed Mushrooms | ~20 | ~1 | ~0 | ~4 |
| Honey Mustard Sauce | ~150 | ~0 | ~11 | ~12 |
Total Estimated Calories in the Dish
The calorie count for a full serving of Alice Springs Chicken typically ranges from 700 to 1,200 calories, depending on portion sizes and preparation variations. Here’s a rough estimate of the total macronutrient breakdown:
- Calories: ~850-1,000
- Protein: ~45-50g
- Fat: ~40-50g
- Carbohydrates: ~15-20g
Why Is the Calorie Count High?
The richness of the Alice Springs Chicken comes from its combination of high-calorie ingredients such as bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce. While the grilled chicken is lean, the toppings significantly increase the dish’s calorie and fat content.
Customizing the Alice Springs Chicken for a Healthier Option
While the Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious indulgence, it’s possible to enjoy this dish while keeping the calorie count and fat content in check. Below are strategies for customizing the dish and tips for making it a lighter, healthier choice.
Request Modifications When Ordering
Restaurants like Outback Steakhouse are often accommodating when it comes to dietary preferences. Here’s how you can tweak the Alice Springs Chicken:
- Ask for Less Cheese
- The cheese blend is one of the biggest calorie contributors. Request a reduced portion or opt for one type of cheese instead of the blend.
- Calories Saved: ~100-150 calories.
- Go Easy on the Honey Mustard Sauce
- Honey mustard sauce is both sweet and creamy, making it calorie-dense. Ask for the sauce on the side and use it sparingly. Alternatively, request a lighter dressing like balsamic vinegar.
- Calories Saved: ~50-100 calories.
- Skip the Bacon
- While bacon adds flavor, it’s also high in fat and calories. Consider skipping it or replacing it with turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.
- Calories Saved: ~120 calories.
- Lighten Up the Mushrooms
- While mushrooms themselves are low in calories, sautéing them in butter or oil can add unnecessary fats. Ask for grilled or steamed mushrooms instead.
- Calories Saved: ~10-20 calories.
Choose Healthier Side Dishes
The Alice Springs Chicken is often served with calorie-heavy sides like mashed potatoes, loaded baked potatoes, or fries. Swapping these for lighter sides can make a significant difference in your meal’s overall calorie count.
- Opt for Steamed Vegetables
- A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or mixed vegetables is nutrient-rich and low in calories.
- Calories: ~50-100.
- Choose a Side Salad
- A fresh garden salad with a light dressing is a great low-calorie side option.
- Calories: ~100-150 (with dressing).
- Skip the Bread Basket
- Many diners don’t realize that the complimentary bread and butter can add up to 200-300 extra calories before the main course arrives. Politely decline or limit your portion.
Healthier Preparation Methods
If you’re dining at home or preparing a similar dish, use these cooking tips to make your version of Alice Springs Chicken healthier:
- Grill the Chicken with Minimal Oil
- Use a non-stick grill pan or a light mist of olive oil to reduce unnecessary fats.
- Use Low-Fat Cheese Alternatives
- Opt for reduced-fat Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese to retain the flavor without the excess calories.
- Replace Bacon with Turkey Bacon
- Turkey bacon is leaner and still provides the smoky flavor bacon lovers crave.
- Make a Healthier Sauce
- Prepare a homemade honey mustard sauce with Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and a drizzle of honey to cut down on sugar and fat.
Calorie Comparison: Custom vs. Original
Here’s how the calorie count can change when you make healthier choices:
| Version | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Alice Springs Chicken | ~850-1,000 | ~45-50 | ~40-50 | ~15-20 |
| Customized Healthier Version | ~500-600 | ~40-45 | ~20-25 | ~10-15 |
By making small adjustments, you can reduce the calorie count by 30-40% without sacrificing too much of the dish’s flavor.
Portion Control
Finally, consider sharing the dish or eating half and saving the rest for later. Pair it with a light appetizer or dessert to round out the meal while keeping the calorie count manageable.
Calories in Side Dishes Commonly Paired with Alice Springs Chicken
The Alice Springs Chicken is often served with a variety of side dishes that can dramatically affect the overall calorie count of your meal. While the chicken itself is hearty, the choice of sides can either complement or overshadow your efforts to keep the meal balanced.
Popular Side Dish Options and Their Calorie Counts
Here’s a look at the most commonly ordered side dishes at Outback Steakhouse and how they contribute to the overall caloric load:
- Aussie Fries
- A classic choice, these crispy fries are golden and indulgent but high in calories and fat.
- Calories: ~400-450 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~20g fat, ~55g carbohydrates, ~5g protein
- Loaded Baked Potato
- This hearty side includes butter, sour cream, bacon bits, and cheese, making it calorie-dense.
- Calories: ~450-500 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~20g fat, ~60g carbohydrates, ~10g protein
- Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
- Creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory gravy are a comforting choice, but they can be high in calories depending on the preparation.
- Calories: ~300-350 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~15g fat, ~40g carbohydrates, ~4g protein
- Steamed Broccoli
- A lighter, nutrient-dense choice, broccoli offers vitamins and fiber without adding excessive calories.
- Calories: ~50-70 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~0g fat, ~10g carbohydrates, ~4g protein
- Caesar Salad
- A salad might seem like a healthier choice, but the creamy Caesar dressing and croutons add a significant number of calories.
- Calories: ~350-400 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~30g fat, ~10g carbohydrates, ~8g protein
- Sweet Potato with Honey Butter and Brown Sugar
- Sweet and decadent, this side dish combines the natural sweetness of the potato with added sugars and fats.
- Calories: ~450-500 per serving
- Macronutrients: ~15g fat, ~70g carbohydrates, ~4g protein
Low-Calorie Side Pairings for a Balanced Meal
To keep your meal balanced and calorie-conscious, consider these lower-calorie side dish combinations:
- Steamed Vegetables + House Salad (with light dressing)
- Calories: ~150-200
- A simple, nutrient-rich pairing that adds fiber and vitamins without excessive calories.
- Steamed Broccoli + Baked Potato (no toppings)
- Calories: ~200-250
- A filling option that provides energy-boosting carbohydrates and fiber.
- Side Caesar Salad (dressing on the side) + Steamed Vegetables
- Calories: ~250-300
- Ordering dressing on the side can help control the calorie count while enjoying a mix of flavors.
Customizing Side Dishes for Fewer Calories
- Request Toppings on the Side
- Whether it’s cheese, butter, or gravy, having toppings served separately allows you to control portions.
- Go Easy on Dressings and Sauces
- Request low-fat or vinaigrette dressings for salads and skip sugary glazes on sweet potatoes.
- Avoid Fried Options
- Opt for grilled, roasted, or steamed sides instead of fried or breaded dishes.
Impact of Side Choices on Total Meal Calories
To illustrate how side dishes can impact the overall calorie count, here’s a comparison of meal combinations:
| Main Dish + Sides | Total Calories |
|---|---|
| Alice Springs Chicken + Loaded Baked Potato + Aussie Fries | ~1,750-1,900 |
| Alice Springs Chicken + Steamed Broccoli + Side Salad | ~1,000-1,200 |
| Alice Springs Chicken + Mashed Potatoes + Caesar Salad | ~1,400-1,600 |
As seen above, choosing lighter side dishes can save up to 800 calories, making your meal more balanced and healthier.
Consider Skipping the Sides
If you’re looking to stay within a calorie limit, consider skipping heavy sides altogether and ordering the Alice Springs Chicken as your main course. Pair it with water, unsweetened iced tea, or black coffee to avoid extra sugar and calorie-laden drinks.
FAQs About Outback Alice Springs Chicken
Dining at Outback Steakhouse raises many questions for calorie-conscious customers about the Alice Springs Chicken. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you make informed choices.
1. How many calories are in a single serving of Alice Springs Chicken
A standard serving of Alice Springs Chicken contains approximately 850 to 1,000 calories, depending on the portion size and preparation. This includes the grilled chicken, bacon, melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and honey mustard sauce. Customizations and side dishes can raise or lower the total calorie count.
2. Is Alice Springs Chicken high in protein?
Yes, Alice Springs Chicken is high in protein due to the grilled chicken breast and additional toppings like cheese and bacon. A single serving provides around 45 to 50 grams of protein, making it a good option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
3. Can I order a healthier version of Alice Springs Chicken at Outback?
Absolutely! Here are some tips for customizing the dish:
- Reduce or skip the cheese to lower fat and calorie content.
- Request the honey mustard sauce on the side and use it sparingly.
- Skip the bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon.
- Pair the dish with lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a salad with a low-fat dressing.
4. What are the healthiest side dish options to pair with Alice Springs Chicken?
The healthiest side dishes include:
- Steamed Broccoli: Low in calories and packed with fiber and vitamins.
- House Salad (with a light dressing): A great way to add greens to your meal.
- Baked Potato (plain): Provides a filling, low-calorie carbohydrate option.
Avoid calorie-heavy options like Aussie Fries or Loaded Baked Potatoes to keep your meal balanced.
5. Is Alice Springs Chicken keto-friendly?
Yes, Alice Springs Chicken can be made keto-friendly with slight modifications. Remove the honey mustard sauce and pair the dish with low-carb sides like steamed vegetables or a Caesar salad without croutons. The grilled chicken, cheese, and bacon align well with the high-fat, low-carb requirements of a ketogenic diet.
6. How does Alice Springs Chicken compare to other menu items at Outback Steakhouse?
Compared to other popular dishes at Outback Steakhouse, Alice Springs Chicken falls somewhere in the middle in terms of calorie count. For example:
- Bloomin’ Onion: Over 1,600 calories for a full serving.
- Grilled Salmon: Around 500 calories, making it a lighter option.
- Baby Back Ribs (full rack): Approximately 1,400 calories.
Alice Springs Chicken offers a balance of protein and indulgence but can be modified to fit a healthier diet.
7. Is the dish gluten-free?
Alice Springs Chicken can be made gluten-free if you request modifications to avoid any cross-contamination with breaded items or gluten-containing sauces. Inform your server of your dietary needs, and they can prepare the dish accordingly.
8. Can I share Alice Springs Chicken to reduce the calorie intake?
Yes, sharing the dish is an excellent way to reduce calorie intake while still enjoying the flavors. Pair it with a couple of low-calorie appetizers or salads to create a well-rounded, shareable meal.
9. Does Outback offer nutritional information for their dishes?
Outback Steakhouse provides nutritional information upon request, either online or at their locations. Checking this information before dining can help you make informed choices.
10. Are there vegetarian alternatives to Alice Springs Chicken?
While Alice Springs Chicken is not vegetarian, Outback offers other menu items that can be tailored for vegetarian diners, such as their salads, sides, and pasta dishes. Substituting grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins might be an option upon special request.
Conclusion: How Many Calories Are in the Outback Alice Springs Chicken?
The Outback Alice Springs Chicken is a deliciously indulgent dish featuring grilled chicken topped with bacon, cheese, mushrooms, and honey mustard sauce. A single serving contains approximately 850 to 1,000 calories, making it a rich choice in terms of both flavor and calorie content.
For those mindful of their dietary intake, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish while staying on track with health goals. By requesting modifications such as less cheese, skipping the bacon, or choosing lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a salad, you can significantly reduce the calorie count without sacrificing the essence of the dish.
Outback Steakhouse also provides flexibility in its menu, enabling customers to tailor meals to their preferences. Whether you’re dining solo or sharing with friends, Alice Springs Chicken remains a standout option for its balance of protein and indulgence. With thoughtful choices, you can savor this classic favorite in a way that fits your nutritional needs.
Final Tips for Health-Conscious Diners:
- Always check the nutritional information available online or at the restaurant.
- Pair the dish with low-calorie sides to create a balanced meal.
- Practice portion control by eating half and saving the rest for later.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for customizations to suit your dietary preferences.
By making informed decisions, you can enjoy the rich flavors of Alice Springs Chicken without overindulging.