How to Make Alice Springs Chicken: Easy Outback Steakhouse Copycat Recipe
If you love the taste of Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken, you’re in for a treat! This dish has won over many diners. Now, you can make it at home. Imagine tender chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and Colby Jack cheese, all with a tangy honey mustard sauce.
This mix of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone. Your family and friends will ask for more. In this article, we’ll show you how to make this Outback Steakhouse copycat recipe. We’ll share tips to make sure your Alice Springs Chicken is just as good as the restaurant’s.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow. It will impress your loved ones with a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Let’s start and learn how to make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken!
Table of Contents
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a dish loved by many. It has tender chicken breasts marinated in honey mustard sauce. It’s topped with mushrooms, bacon, and melted cheese.
This mix of flavors and textures is a true delight. It shows off the unique outback Australia cuisine.
Origin of the Dish
Alice Springs Chicken doesn’t come from Australia’s Alice Springs. It was made by Outback Steakhouse in America. It’s inspired by Australian flavors like honey, mustard, and bacon.
Popularity at Outback Steakhouse
Since it was added to the menu, Alice Springs Chicken has become a hit. People love the juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, smoky bacon, and melted cheese. The honey mustard sauce brings it all together.
Alice Springs Chicken is hands-down my favorite dish at Outback Steakhouse. The flavors just work so well together, and it’s always cooked to perfection. I never leave disappointed!
Its popularity has made home cooks want to make it too. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can enjoy it at home. Whether you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse or just love chicken, Alice Springs Chicken is a must-try.
Ingredients Needed
To make this mouth-watering Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The star is the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They’re the base for this tasty dish.
Chicken Breasts
Choose high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. They should be similar in size for even cooking. If your breasts are thick, consider butterflying or pounding them for better results.
Honey Mustard Sauce Components
The honey mustard marinade is key. It adds sweet and tangy flavors to the chicken. You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
These ingredients mix to create a rich, balanced sauce. It will make your chicken incredibly delicious.
Toppings: Mushrooms, Bacon, and Cheese
No Alice Springs Chicken is complete without its toppings. You’ll need:
- Sliced mushrooms (Baby Bella mushrooms are a flavorful choice)
- Crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
These toppings add depth, texture, and richness. They make each bite a true pleasure.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Dijon mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Sliced mushrooms | 8 ounces |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 4 slices |
| Shredded Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a restaurant-quality Alice Springs Chicken. The mix of tender chicken, tangy-sweet honey mustard, savory mushrooms, smoky bacon, and melty cheese will impress and delight your taste buds.
Preparing the Honey Mustard Sauce
The honey mustard marinade is key to Alice Springs Chicken. It adds a tangy sweet sauce that goes well with the savory toppings. You’ll need just a few ingredients to make this tasty marinade:
- 1/2 cup dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
In a small bowl, mix the dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice. Whisk until it’s smooth and coats the chicken well. The marinade should be free of lumps and smooth.
The mix of dijon mustard and honey balances tang and sweetness. Mayonnaise adds creaminess. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
The key to a great honey mustard marinade is achieving the right balance of flavors. Adjust the ratios of mustard, honey, and mayonnaise to suit your personal taste preferences.
After making the honey mustard sauce, you’re ready to marinate the chicken. The sauce will make the chicken moist and flavorful. Your Alice Springs Chicken will be tender, juicy, and delicious.
Marinating the Chicken
After making the honey mustard sauce, it’s time to marinate the chicken breasts. This step is key to getting the real taste of Alice Springs Chicken. It lets the chicken soak up the honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
Seasoning the Chicken Breasts
Put the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag. Pour the honey mustard marinade into the bag, making sure the chicken is evenly coated. Seal the bag tightly, and gently massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure full coverage.
Tip: If you prefer, you can also marinate the chicken in a shallow glass dish, turning the chicken occasionally to coat evenly.
Allowing Time for Flavors to Develop
To get the best results, chill the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This lets the flavors meld and the chicken absorb the honey mustard goodness. For even more flavorful chicken, marinate it for up to 24 hours.
| Marinating Time | Effect on Flavor |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Minimum time for flavors to develop |
| 2-4 hours | Ideal marinating time for flavorful chicken |
| 24 hours | Maximum marinating time before fibers break down |
Marinating the chicken for more than 24 hours can make it mushy. Aim for 2-4 hours for the best flavor and texture.
Cooking the Toppings
While the chicken marinates, prepare the toppings that make Alice Springs Chicken so tasty. The key ingredients are sauteed mushrooms and oven baked bacon. They add depth, texture, and flavor to the dish.
Sautéing the Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a key part of this recipe. They add an earthy and savory taste that goes well with the chicken. Here’s how to prepare the mushrooms:
- Clean 8 ounces of mushrooms using a damp paper towel or give them a quick rinse and thorough drying.
- Slice the mushrooms into even pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter.
- Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Sauté the mushrooms for 5 minutes without stirring, allowing them to brown and release their moisture.
- Stir the mushrooms and continue cooking for an additional 2-4 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
Cooking the Bacon
Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor to Alice Springs Chicken. It balances the sweetness of the honey mustard sauce. Baking the bacon in the oven makes it easy and even.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil to catch any grease and make cleanup easier.
- Lay out 6 slices of bacon on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned to your liking.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
- Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into smaller pieces for easy distribution on the chicken.
| Topping | Amount | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sliced Mushrooms | 8 ounces | 7-9 minutes |
| Bacon Slices | 6 slices | 15-20 minutes |
With your sauteed mushrooms and oven baked bacon ready, you’re almost there. You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a delicious Alice Springs Chicken dish that rivals the restaurant version.
Assembling and Baking Alice Springs Chicken
First, prepare the marinated chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and cooked bacon. Then, it’s time to put it all together. Layering the toppings is key to even cooking and great flavor.
Searing the Marinated Chicken
Take the chicken breasts out of the fridge. Season them with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken for 4 minutes on each side. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
Layering the Toppings
Put the seared chicken in a baking dish. Start layering. Spread the mushrooms over the chicken. Then, add the bacon and top with Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Put the Alice Springs Chicken in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Watch it closely until the cheese is melted and golden. Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 |
| Bacon Slices | 8 |
| Monterey Jack Cheese Slices | 4-6 |
| Brown Mushrooms | 1 (8 oz) container |
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious Alice Springs Chicken. It’s just like the Outback Steakhouse version. The seared chicken, mushrooms, bacon, and cheese will wow your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
After baking your Alice Springs Chicken to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Make sure to save some honey mustard dipping sauce for dipping. The tangy and sweet flavors of the sauce complement the savory chicken, bacon, and cheese perfectly.
To add a fresh touch, garnish the chicken with chopped parsley. The bright green color and subtle herbaceous flavor will enhance the dish’s presentation and taste.
Pairing with Side Dishes
Choosing side dishes for your Alice Springs Chicken is easy. This hearty dish pairs well with many vegetables and starches. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed or roasted green beans
- Oven-roasted asparagus
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Baked potatoes with your favorite toppings
- A fresh, crisp side salad
For a truly indulgent meal, try loaded fries or onion rings as a side. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and choose sides that suit your preferences and complement the chicken’s flavors.
| Side Dish | Preparation Method | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | Steamed or Roasted | 5-10 minutes |
| Asparagus | Oven-roasted | 12-15 minutes |
| Mashed Potatoes | Boiled and mashed with butter and milk | 20-25 minutes |
| Baked Potatoes | Baked in the oven | 45-60 minutes |
| Side Salad | Tossed with your favorite dressing | 5 minutes |
No matter which side dishes you choose, your homemade Alice Springs Chicken will be the star. With its juicy chicken, savory toppings, and irresistible honey mustard dipping sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
Cooking Alice Springs Chicken at home is simpler than you think. Just a few tips can make your dish as good as Outback Steakhouse’s. Remember, don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooking makes it dry and flavorless.
Using an Instant-Read Thermometer
An instant-read thermometer is key to perfect chicken. It lets you check the chicken’s temperature without cutting into it. This keeps the juices inside. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the chicken is juicy and safe to eat.
Adjusting Cooking Time for Thicker Chicken Breasts
Not all chicken breasts are the same. Thicker breasts need more time in the oven. Add a few minutes for every extra ounce. This prevents the chicken from drying out. You can also use chicken thighs, which stay moist even if a bit overcooked.
Follow these tips to make amazing Alice Springs Chicken. Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. Adjust the cooking time based on the chicken’s thickness. With practice, you’ll make a meal that wows everyone at home.
FAQ
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. It’s grilled chicken with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. It’s topped with a honey mustard sauce, named after Alice Springs in Australia.
What ingredients do I need to make Alice Springs Chicken?
To make this dish, you’ll need chicken breasts, dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise. You’ll also need lemon juice, mushrooms, butter, bacon, and cheese. Don’t forget fresh parsley for garnish.
How do I make the honey mustard sauce for Alice Springs Chicken?
Start by mixing dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir until it’s smooth. This sauce is for marinating and dipping.
How long should I marinate the chicken for Alice Springs Chicken?
Put the chicken in a ziplock bag with the honey mustard sauce. Coat the chicken well and refrigerate for at least an hour. But don’t marinate for more than 24 hours.
How do I cook the toppings for Alice Springs Chicken?
Clean and slice the mushrooms, then sauté them in butter until they’re tender. For the bacon, bake it until crispy. Use one or two pieces per chicken breast.
How do I assemble and bake Alice Springs Chicken?
Take the chicken out of the fridge, season it, and sear it in a skillet for 4 minutes on each side. Place it in a baking dish, add mushrooms, bacon, and cheese. Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is cooked.
What should I serve with Alice Springs Chicken?
Serve the chicken with the honey mustard sauce on the side. Garnish with parsley. It goes well with green vegetables and starches like mashed potatoes.
How can I ensure my Alice Springs Chicken turns out perfectly?
Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should be 165°F. If the chicken is thick, bake it a bit longer. You can also use chicken thighs, just adjust the cooking time.
