Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Alice Springs Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a hero dinner that electrifies the atmosphere! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts generously topped with crispy, savory bacon, a blanket of gooey melted cheese, all nestled on a bed of perfectly cooked mushrooms. A luscious, finger-licking good homemade honey mustard sauce is drizzled generously over the top, with extra served on the side for dipping. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that captivates every palate.

This dish evokes the same joy and satisfaction as other restaurant legends, like the creamy, rich Lily’s Chicken with its lemon butter sauce from Bonefish Grill, or the robust, smoky BBQ notes of Chili’s Monterey Chicken. We’ve meticulously deconstructed the restaurant’s secret, eliminating all the guesswork, so you can effortlessly recreate this sensation at home and savor the truly delicious results.

If you’ve had the pleasure of enjoying this mouthwatering chicken entrée at Outback Steakhouse, then you already understand the irresistible allure. If this is your first introduction, prepare for a treat that will quickly become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire!

Beyond the Restaurant: Unbeatable Benefits of This Homemade Version

You’ll adore making this easy chicken dinner recipe because:

• Budget-Friendly Indulgence: Enjoy a luxurious restaurant-quality meal without the hefty price tag of dining out. This recipe proves that gourmet flavors can be achieved economically.
• Effortless Preparation: With just minutes of active prep time, you can assemble this dish and let your oven do most of the work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable for Every Diet: Adapt this recipe to fit your dietary preferences. We provide practical tips to make it healthier and lower in carbs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish guilt-free.
• Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: This recipe is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Its combination of familiar, comforting ingredients ensures that even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
• Taste Sensation: The blend of savory chicken, smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, sharp cheese, and sweet-tangy honey mustard creates a complex flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds with every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Your Alice Springs Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken right in your own kitchen:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of our dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. If they are particularly thick, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps reduce baking time and ensures even cooking, preventing dry spots. Aim for pieces roughly 6-8 ounces each for optimal results.
• Fresh Mushrooms: These add an earthy depth and wonderful texture. Slice fresh button mushrooms or baby Bella (cremini) mushrooms. You can be generous here; mushrooms shrink considerably during cooking, so what seems like a lot initially will be just right.
• Crispy Bacon: Provides a crucial layer of smoky flavor and delightful crunch. Cook your bacon until crispy, then crumble or cut it into smaller pieces. For convenience, microwaving bacon is a fantastic time-saver. (See our quick guide below!)
  • Variation Tip: To lighten the dish, consider using turkey bacon or reducing the amount of regular bacon. This helps cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing too much flavor.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and offers a mild, creamy flavor that complements the other ingredients. Shred it yourself for the best melt, or use pre-shredded Monterey Jack.
  • Alternative Cheeses: Colby Jack is an excellent substitute, providing a similar creamy texture and flavor. Cheddar cheese can also be used for a sharper profile.
• Seasoning Salt: A versatile blend of salt, herbs, and spices that elevates the chicken’s natural flavor. If you don’t have seasoning salt, a generous sprinkle of good quality kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper will work wonderfully. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder for extra aroma.
• Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce: This is a non-negotiable component and truly the heart of the dish! While store-bought bottles are convenient, our homemade version below is incredibly fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced, making all the difference in flavor. Do not skip making this from scratch!

Quick Tip: How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave

For a swift route to dinner, mastering microwave bacon is a game-changer. Lay 4-5 strips of bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with 2-3 sheets of paper towel. Cover with a few more paper towels to absorb splatter. Cook on high power for approximately 3 minutes. After that, continue cooking in short 30-second bursts until it reaches your desired crispness. Remember, the bacon doesn’t need to be overly crispy at this stage, as it will continue to cook and crisp slightly in the oven with the chicken.

For larger batches or a different texture, you can also cook bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a foil-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or pan-fry it on the stovetop until golden brown and crisp.

The Star of the Show: Our Perfect Honey Mustard Sauce

While you’ll find countless honey mustard bottles lining grocery store shelves, nothing compares to the fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced flavors of a homemade sauce. Our recipe has been refined over many culinary experiments and is consistently rated as a top-tier honey mustard that elevates not only this Alice Springs Chicken but also serves as a fantastic dipping sauce for countless other dishes.

This award-winning combination is a carefully balanced blend of:

• Mayonnaise: (¾ cup) Provides the creamy base and richness. Use a good quality full-fat mayonnaise for the best texture and flavor.
• Honey: (¼ cup) Adds natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze. Adjust the amount to your preference for sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard: (2 Tablespoons) Offers a tangy, slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness and provides that signature mustard flavor.

To prepare, simply combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Use an electric hand mixer for a perfectly smooth consistency, or vigorously whisk by hand until everything is thoroughly combined and creamy. A crucial tip: remember to reserve a quarter to a third of this delectable sauce for drizzling over the finished dish and serving on the side for dipping. This ensures a fresh burst of flavor at serving time.

Make it Healthier: For a lower-calorie and lower-carb version, simply adjust the amount of sauce you use per serving. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like monk fruit honey or a sugar-free maple syrup to reduce the honey content without sacrificing sweetness.

Step-by-Step Directions: Crafting Your Alice Springs Chicken

Follow these easy steps to bring this sensational Alice Springs Chicken to life in your kitchen. We’ve included tips to ensure perfect results every time!

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by layering the sliced fresh mushrooms evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Don’t be shy with the mushrooms; they reduce significantly in volume during cooking, and you’ll want plenty of their tender, earthy goodness to complement the chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer directly on top of the mushrooms. Sprinkle the chicken generously with seasoning salt (or a mixture of salt and pepper).
   • Pro Tip for Flavor: While not strictly necessary, you can take this dish to the next level by searing the chicken breasts for 1-2 minutes per side in a hot skillet with a little olive oil before placing them in the baking dish. This creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in extra flavor.
   • Mushroom Magic: If you’re a true mushroom enthusiast, feel free to double the amount! You can also quickly sauté the mushrooms in a pan for about 5 minutes before layering them, which helps release some of their moisture and concentrates their flavor, reducing the amount of liquid in the final dish.
2. Layer with Bacon and Honey Mustard: Evenly distribute the cooked and crumbled bacon pieces over the chicken breasts. Next, generously drizzle about three-quarters of your homemade honey mustard sauce over everything, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
   • Important Note: Always reserve a quarter to a third of the sauce to serve on the side. This reserved sauce should never come into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Add the Cheese Topping: Liberally sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the chicken and bacon. Ensure an even layer so every bite gets a delicious melted cheese pull.
   • Healthy Variation: If you’re aiming to lower the calorie count, you can certainly use a smaller amount of cheese without compromising the overall deliciousness of the dish.
4. Bake to Perfection: Place the uncovered baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with an instant-read meat thermometer at the thickest part. This ensures perfectly juicy and tender chicken every time.
   • Preventing Over-Browning: If the cheese begins to brown too quickly before the chicken is fully cooked, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can add the cheese halfway through the cooking time to ensure it melts perfectly without burning.

A Quick Note on Marinating: Some Outback Steakhouse copycat recipes suggest marinating the chicken in honey mustard before baking. However, in our experience, this step isn’t necessary. The chicken is thoroughly smothered with the sauce and cheese during baking, resulting in consistently juicy and tender results without the extra prep time.

Elevate Your Dish: Pro Tips for Next-Level Alice Springs Chicken

While our core recipe guarantees a fantastic meal, these optional “next-level” tips are for those who want to enhance the flavors and textures even further:

• Sauté Your Mushrooms: Before adding them to the baking dish, heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sliced mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and begin to brown. This process concentrates their flavor and prevents the final dish from becoming too watery.
• Sear the Chicken: Use the same pan (after sautéing mushrooms, if applicable) to sear the chicken breasts. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until a golden crust forms. This quick sear adds an incredible depth of flavor and helps seal in the juices, leading to an even more tender and moist chicken.
• Fresh Herbs Finish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the entire dish.
• Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the chicken with the seasoning salt, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the honey mustard.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Alice Springs Chicken

Complementing this rich and savory Alice Springs Chicken with the right side dishes can turn a great meal into an extraordinary feast. Here are some fantastic options that round out the dinner beautifully:

• Crisp Caesar Salad: A classic choice, a fresh Caesar salad with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich chicken.
• Golden Steak Fries: For a true steakhouse experience, a generous serving of perfectly crispy steak fries is an unbeatable accompaniment.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Indulgent and comforting, fluffy mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up any extra honey mustard sauce. Consider our Crock-Pot Creamy Mashed Potatoes for effortless preparation.
• Healthy Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter, lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower offers a similar creamy texture without the extra starch. Try our Frozen Cauliflower Mash for a quick option.
• Crispy Roasted Green Beans: Add a vibrant green vegetable to your plate. Our Crispy Roasted Green Beans offer a delightful crunch and fresh flavor. Asparagus or broccoli are also excellent choices.
• Garlic Bread or Rolls: Perfect for wiping up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

And, channeling the true spirit of Outback Steakhouse, why not start your meal with a homemade Bloomin’ Onion appetizer, like this fantastic recipe from Gimme Some Oven?

Frequently Asked Questions About Alice Springs Chicken

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Maximize your meal planning and enjoy leftovers with these practical tips:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before storing to maintain freshness.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat, drizzle a little extra reserved honey mustard sauce (if you have any) or a splash of chicken broth over the top to prevent drying. Cover the dish loosely with foil and warm it in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For quicker reheating, use the microwave at 50% power, covering the chicken to retain moisture.
• Make-Ahead Prep: Save time during the dinner rush by prepping components in advance. Cook and crumble the bacon, and whisk together the honey mustard sauce up to 2-3 days beforehand. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply assemble and bake!

Explore More Restaurant-Inspired Chicken Recipes

If you loved recreating this Outback Steakhouse classic, you’ll surely enjoy these other fantastic copycat chicken dishes from popular restaurants:

• Healthy Bang Bang Chicken: A lighter take on the popular Asian-inspired dish, baked to perfection.
• Chili’s Monterey Chicken Recipe: Smoky BBQ chicken, bacon, and cheese – another comfort food favorite.
• Spicy Ranch Chicken Foil Packets {Grill or Oven}: A versatile and flavorful option that’s easy to clean up.

📋 Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Card

Copycat Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

This Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a copycat of the Outback Steakhouse favorite, consistently earning rave reviews. Simply layer, bake, and get ready for the applause!

Rating: 4.74 from 19 votes

Prep Time: 10 minutes |
Cook Time: 25 minutes |
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 servings |
Author: Marjory Pilley

Ingredients

Alice Springs Chicken

• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon Seasoning Salt
• 1 recipe Honey Mustard Sauce (details below)
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Honey Mustard Sauce

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions

Alice Springs Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer sliced mushrooms evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Place chicken breasts in a single layer on top of the mushrooms and sprinkle generously with seasoning salt.
4. Top the chicken with cooked bacon pieces, then drizzle about ¾ of the homemade honey mustard sauce over everything. Remember to reserve about ¼ of the sauce to serve on the side (ensuring the reserved sauce never touches raw chicken).
5. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
6. Bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Honey Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard. Use an electric mixer or whisk vigorously by hand until all ingredients are well-combined and smooth.

Notes

For detailed step-by-step pictures, serving ideas, and more valuable tips, please refer to the sections above!

Next-Level Tips:

• Sauté the mushrooms before adding them to the baking dish. Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a large skillet and cook the sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes over medium-high heat to release their liquid and deepen their flavor.
• Sear the chicken for one or two minutes on each side in the same pan used for the sautéed mushrooms. This adds a delicious crust and locks in moisture.

Low-Carb Tips:

To make this recipe lower in carbohydrates, limit the honey mustard sauce to 2 tablespoons per person instead of ¼ cup. This adjustment allows you to enjoy all the rich flavor while cutting the carbs in half and reducing the overall calorie count.

Storage, Reheating, Make-Ahead:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Drizzle leftover honey mustard sauce or a little chicken broth over the top before reheating. Cover and warm in the oven on low heat (325°F/160°C) or in the microwave at 50% power until heated through.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the honey mustard sauce and cook the bacon ahead of time to significantly cut down on prep at dinner hour.

Nutrition

Calories: 693kcal |
Carbohydrates: 20g |
Protein: 36g |
Fat: 52g |
Saturated Fat: 13g |
Cholesterol: 129mg |
Sodium: 784mg |
Potassium: 687mg |
Sugar: 19g |
Vitamin A: 280IU |
Vitamin C: 2.6mg |
Calcium: 224mg |
Iron: 1.3mg

Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer

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