Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken: Recipe and Tips

There’s something magical about recreating a restaurant favorite at home. The satisfaction of sitting down to a meal you’ve crafted yourself, that tastes just as amazing as it does at your favorite restaurant, is unparalleled. If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you’ve likely tasted the indulgent and flavorful Alice Springs Chicken. Known for its irresistible combination of honey mustard, bacon, melted cheese, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken right in your own kitchen. We’ll walk you through everything from the ingredients and cooking techniques to tips that will elevate the dish and make it taste just like the restaurant version. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and create something truly delicious!

What is Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken?

Before we get into the details of how to make this dish, let’s talk about what makes Alice Springs Chicken so special. Named after the Australian town of Alice Springs, this dish is an American take on a simple, flavorful chicken recipe. The combination of juicy chicken breast, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, honey mustard sauce, and melty cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser.

While it might seem like a complex dish, the truth is, it’s relatively simple to prepare. The key is balancing the flavors and textures. The smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and sweet honey mustard all work together to elevate the chicken. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet comforting at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Alice Springs Chicken

To make this dish at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a brief overview of what you’ll need to begin:

Essential Ingredients

Tips for Selecting the Best Ingredients

• Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking and even results. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Cheese: While Outback uses Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to experiment with a combination of cheeses. A sharp cheddar can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Honey Mustard: Look for a high-quality honey mustard sauce. If you have the time, preparing it yourself can truly enhance the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken

Preparing the Chicken Base

The first step in creating Alice Springs Chicken is preparing the chicken itself. You want your chicken breasts to be tender and juicy, so here’s how to do it:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine your honey mustard sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper. Coat each chicken breast with the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
   • Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes.maximum flavor, consider marinating it for a few hours or even overnight. The more time it marinates, the richer the flavor it absorbs.
2. Preheat Your Oven:
   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking the chicken through while ensuring it stays moist.

Cooking the Bacon and Mushrooms

While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the bacon and mushrooms.

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon.
   • Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease. After cooling, chop the bacon into small pieces.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
   • Using the same skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the mushrooms over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling and Baking the Chicken

Now that your chicken, bacon, and mushrooms are ready, it’s time to assemble and bake.

1. Assemble the Dish:
   • Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Top each one with a generous spoonful of sautéed mushrooms and crumbled bacon.
   • Sprinkle a combination of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top of each piece of chicken.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Tips to Perfect Your Alice Springs Chicken at Home

Making Alice Springs Chicken at home is simple, but a few key tips can help ensure your dish turns out just right.

Cooking Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. The optimal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures the mushrooms brown evenly instead of steaming.

Flavor Hacks

• Honey Mustard Harmony: For a sweeter taste, simply add a bit more honey to your honey mustard sauce. For a tangier bite, increase the mustard ratio.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations. Gouda or Swiss can add a rich, smoky flavor that complements the bacon and mushrooms.

Time-Saving Tips

• Pre-cooked Bacon: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon. You can find it in most grocery stores, and it’s ready to crumble on top of your chicken.
• Store-bought Honey Mustard: If you’re short on time, using a good-quality store-bought honey mustard sauce will save you the effort of making your own.

How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken

This dish is rich and filling, so it pairs perfectly with simple side dishes that balance out the flavors.

• Side Ideas:
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the richness of the chicken.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Bright, crisp vegetables like broccoli or green beans provide a fresh contrast to the heaviness of the chicken.
  • Side Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the dish.

Presentation Tips

• To make your Alice Springs Chicken look just like it does at Outback, garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or chives. This brings a vibrant touch and a refreshing element to the dish.

Nutritional Information and Adjustments

If you’re concerned about nutrition, here’s a quick breakdown of the calories and macronutrients per serving:

Health Adjustments

• Lower-Calorie Option: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon, and use low-fat cheese to cut back on calories.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your honey mustard sauce and bacon are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese options to make the dish suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.

FAQ About Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken

Q1: Can I make Alice Springs Chicken in an air fryer?
Yes! An air fryer is a great option for cooking Alice Springs Chicken. Set it to 375°F and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q2: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply ensure your honey mustard sauce is gluten-free, and check your bacon for gluten additives. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Q3: What cheese is best for Alice Springs Chicken?
Monterey Jack is the traditional choice, but you can use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar for extra flavor.

Q4: Can I prep Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and cook the bacon and mushrooms a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

With this detailed guide, you’re now ready to recreate Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the cooking technique, every step is designed to help you achieve a dish that’s as satisfying and delicious as the one you enjoy at the restaurant. Don’t forget to experiment with different flavors and make the dish your own. Now it’s time to get cooking—enjoy your homemade Alice Springs Chicken!