Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
If you’ve ever visited Outback Steakhouse, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered their signature dish: Alice Springs Chicken. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, earthy mushrooms, and tangy honey mustard sauce is nothing short of irresistible. The good news is, you don’t have to head to the restaurant to enjoy this delicious meal—you can make it right at home!
In this guide, you’ll learn how to recreate Outback’s famous Alice Springs Chicken in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a flavorful, comfort-filled dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Table of Contents
What Is Alice Springs Chicken?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let’s take a moment to understand what makes Alice Springs Chicken so special. This dish, originally popularized by Outback Steakhouse, features a grilled chicken breast topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, a blend of melted cheeses, and a signature honey mustard sauce. It’s a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors that create a truly satisfying meal.
But why the name “Alice Springs”? While it doesn’t have a direct connection to the famous Australian landmark, the dish was inspired by the vibrant flavors and the spirit of the Outback, blending bold and hearty ingredients to deliver a flavorful punch.
Key Ingredients for the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
To recreate this Outback classic, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Fortunately, they’re easy to find and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts (boneless): The star of the dish. Boneless breasts are ideal as they cook faster and remain tender.
- Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds the perfect crunch and flavor to the dish.
- Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese delivers the creamy, melty goodness that’s essential to this recipe.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy depth to the dish. White or cremini mushrooms work best.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: A tangy, sweet dressing that pulls all the flavors together. You can either buy it from the store or make it yourself.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: For seasoning and sautéing the mushrooms.
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse at Home
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to bring the flavors of Alice Springs Chicken to your dinner table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Start by seasoning your boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any other seasoning you like. A simple blend of garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper works wonders.
- Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high heat. If you’re grilling, cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you’re using a skillet, cook the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Set the chicken aside once it’s cooked.
- Prepare the Bacon:
- While the chicken is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Drain the bacon on a paper towel and crumble it into small pieces. The bacon’s smokiness will infuse the dish with a delicious flavor.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In the same pan used for the bacon, add a bit of olive oil or butter and sauté the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.. The mushrooms will pick up some of the leftover bacon flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place each cooked chicken breast on a baking sheet. Top each with the sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and a generous sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the chicken to a preheated oven and broil it for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be careful not to over-broil, as you want the cheese to melt without burning.
- Drizzle with Honey Mustard Sauce:
- Once the cheese is melted and gooey, drizzle the honey mustard sauce generously over the top of each chicken breast. This sweet and tangy sauce is what ties all the flavors together and gives the dish its signature flavor.
Alice Springs Chicken: Recipe Ingredients Table
To make sure you have everything on hand, here’s a quick reference table for the ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
Chicken Breasts (boneless) | 4 pieces |
Bacon (thick-cut) | 6 strips |
Mushrooms (sliced) | 1 cup |
Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Cheddar Cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Honey Mustard Sauce | ½ cup |
Olive Oil (for sautéing) | 1 tbsp |
Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Perfect Pairings for Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is a hearty dish, so it pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich, savory flavor. Here are some options to consider:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that balances the richness of the chicken and cheese.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus will provide a fresh, healthy contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to your meal.
Wine Pairing:
To complete your Alice Springs Chicken experience, pair it with a Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. Both wines have the right amount of acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon, making them an excellent choice.
Tips for Making Perfect Alice Springs Chicken Every Time
To ensure your Alice Springs Chicken turns out just like the restaurant version, follow these helpful tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Dry, overcooked chicken can ruin the dish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F and remains juicy.
- Grill or Sear for Flavor: Whether grilling or pan-searing, a good sear on the chicken will give it a deliciously crispy exterior that adds flavor and texture.
- Double the Sauce: If you love the honey mustard sauce, feel free to make extra. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling over other dishes.
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
What makes Alice Springs Chicken so special?
Alice Springs Chicken stands out because of the bold combination of flavors: the smoky bacon, creamy melted cheese, earthy mushrooms, and sweet honey mustard sauce.These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Can I make Alice Springs Chicken without bacon?
Yes, you can. If you prefer a bacon-free version, you can substitute turkey bacon or simply skip it altogether. However, the smoky bacon flavor is a key element in this recipe, so omitting it will change the flavor profile.
Is it possible to prepare Alice Springs Chicken in advance?
Absolutely!You can prepare the chicken, sauté the mushrooms, and cook the bacon ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the dish, top with cheese, and broil it until the cheese melts.
Conclusion: A Flavorful Journey to the Outback
Making Alice Springs Chicken at home is easier than you might think, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. With juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese, all topped off with a tangy honey mustard sauce, it’s a dish that delivers on both flavor and comfort.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a dinner that feels like a trip to the Outback—all from the comfort of your kitchen. Enjoy!
Ready to try making Alice Springs Chicken at home? Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your finished dish