Outback Copycat Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever enjoyed the mouthwatering flavors of Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse, you know exactly why it’s one of their most beloved dishes. It’s savory, sweet, and full of that perfect comforting warmth that makes you want to go back for more. But what if you could recreate that same deliciousness in the comfort of your own kitchen? Well, now you can!

In this article, we’re going to show you how to make an easy, Outback Copycat Alice Springs Chicken recipe that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Not only will you get to enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home, but you’ll also learn the secrets behind what makes Alice Springs Chicken so irresistible. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

What Is Alice Springs Chicken?

Before we dive into the recipe, it’s important to understand why Alice Springs Chicken is so iconic. Named after a town in the Australian outback, this dish is a perfect blend of grilled chicken, smoky bacon, savory sautéed mushrooms, gooey cheese, and a tangy honey mustard sauce. The result is a flavor profile that’s both comforting and bold — making it a top choice for many Outback Steakhouse patrons.

While it’s served as a main dish at the restaurant, Alice Springs Chicken’s combination of textures and flavors makes it suitable for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or even a special holiday meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Now that you’re excited to try this delicious recipe, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make Alice Springs Chicken at home. Here’s the list of ingredients that will bring this Outback classic to life.

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless pieces (you can substitute thighs if preferred)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon (adds a mild smokiness)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for searing the chicken)
• Bacon: 4 slices (crispy and crumbled)
• Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced (fresh mushrooms like button or cremini work best)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (for sautéing the mushrooms)
• Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (for a creamy texture)
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (adds sharpness)
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped (for garnish)

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• Dijon Mustard: 1/2 cup (gives a tangy, sharp flavor)
• Honey: 1/2 cup (for sweetness)
• Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (adds creaminess)
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (balances the flavors)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Alice Springs Chicken at Home

Creating Alice Springs Chicken at home is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to recreate that Outback experience right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

The star of this dish is the honey mustard sauce, which ties everything together. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. Once mixed, set aside 1/4 cup of the sauce for later. This will be used to top the chicken after it’s seared.
3. The remaining sauce can be used to marinate the chicken, infusing it with flavor before you cook it.

Pro Tip: If you want a spicier honey mustard sauce, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a little extra Dijon mustard.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Now, it’s time to get the chicken ready for cooking. Marinating the chicken will enhance its flavor, so don’t skip this step!

1. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. Place the chicken in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, and pour the prepared honey mustard sauce over the chicken.
3. Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

Pro Tip: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavor will be. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will still do the trick!

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the bacon and mushrooms, two key ingredients that give this dish its unique flavor.

1. In a skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. After it cools down, crumble it into small pieces.
2. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they become tender and golden brown.

Pro Tip: Using the bacon drippings to sauté the mushrooms will infuse them with a savory, smoky flavor that will elevate the dish.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Now that your bacon and mushrooms are ready, it’s time to sear the marinated chicken breasts and get them golden brown.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the chicken finishes cooking properly in the oven.
2. In a large, oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Pro Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Now comes the fun part: assembling all the delicious components!

1. After searing the chicken, spread the reserved honey mustard sauce over each piece.
2. Top with the sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and a generous layer of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro Tip: If you like your cheese extra bubbly and golden, place the skillet under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once your Alice Springs Chicken is fully cooked, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

1. Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve the chicken with the extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tip: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.

Nutritional Information for Alice Springs Chicken

It’s always helpful to know what you’re working with when it comes to nutrition. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown for each serving of Alice Springs Chicken.

Nutritional Component	Amount per Serving
Calories	720
Total Fat	45g
Saturated Fat	18g
Cholesterol	200mg
Sodium	1200mg
Total Carbohydrate	25g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	23g
Protein	60g

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips and Variations for Alice Springs Chicken

Grilling Option

If you want to add a smoky, charred flavor to your Alice Springs Chicken, you can grill the chicken instead of searing it. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side. Then, proceed with the assembly and baking steps.

Cheese Alternatives

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. You could substitute the Monterey Jack for Colby Jack or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure you pick a cheese that melts well!

Add More Veggies

If you want to add some extra vegetables, consider topping your Alice Springs Chicken with caramelized onions or roasted red peppers for an additional layer of flavor.

Low-Carb Version

For those following a low-carb diet, you can skip the honey mustard sauce or substitute it with a sugar-free version. You can also serve the chicken on a bed of steamed vegetables instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Alice Springs Chicken

Q1: Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and cook the bacon and mushrooms up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble and

bake the chicken.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

Q3: How do I make Alice Springs Chicken spicier?

If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the honey mustard sauce or season the chicken with a bit of chili powder.

Q4: What sides pair well with Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken goes wonderfully with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Alice Springs Chicken

Recreating the Outback classic Alice Springs Chicken at home is both simple and satisfying. By following these steps, you can enjoy the same mouthwatering flavors of the restaurant right from the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re making this dish for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and bring the taste of the Outback home today. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media by tagging #AliceSpringsChicken!

Call to Action

If you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it with your friends and family! Have any tweaks or variations that made your dish even better? Drop a comment below — we’d love to hear about it!

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