Introduction
Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a fan-favorite dish known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This classic entrée combines grilled chicken with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a luscious honey mustard sauce, resulting in a savory and satisfying meal. Perfect for both a casual family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, Alice Springs Chicken brings restaurant-quality flavors into your kitchen.
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make Alice Springs Chicken at home:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- 8 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or Cheddar cheese)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional but recommended for a savory touch)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
This sauce ties the entire dish together, offering a tangy and sweet contrast to the savory elements.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and yellow mustard until smooth and creamy.
- Set aside half of the sauce for marinating the chicken. Save the remaining half for drizzling over the final dish.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken with half of the prepared honey mustard sauce and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. Cook the Bacon
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel.
- Crumble the bacon into small pieces once it cools.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, using the leftover bacon grease, sauté the mushrooms for about 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and soft. Set them aside.
5. Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly coat the grill or skillet with olive oil and grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the grilled chicken in a baking dish. Top each chicken breast with the sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and a generous portion of shredded cheese.
- Bake the chicken for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Drizzle
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Drizzle the remaining honey mustard sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 725 kcal |
| Protein | 48g |
| Fat | 52g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
Variations and Customizations
While this Alice Springs Chicken recipe follows the traditional approach, there are several ways to make it your own:
- Cheese Variations: Try mixing in Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Twist: Add some heat by mixing hot sauce into the honey mustard marinade or sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken before grilling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms for a veggie-friendly take on the dish, and use vegetarian bacon substitutes for the same rich, smoky flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is a rich and hearty meal, so it pairs well with lighter, refreshing side dishes. Here are a few options to consider:
- Steamed Vegetables
A simple side of steamed broccoli or asparagus helps balance the richness of the dish. - Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic butter make an indulgent pairing with the chicken. - Sweet Potato Fries
For a slightly sweet and crispy contrast, serve the chicken alongside baked sweet potato fries. - Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with a light dressing adds freshness to the meal.
Pro Tips for Making Alice Springs Chicken
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it becomes. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Cheese Melting Tip: For even cheesier chicken, use a combination of shredded cheeses and a few slices of cheese on top. It will create a gooey, melty layer.
- Crispy Bacon: Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to add texture and crunch to the dish.
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken
1. Can I Make Alice Springs Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken, cook the bacon, and prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance. When ready to serve, grill the chicken, assemble, and bake it just before mealtime.
2. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe and offer a richer flavor. Be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may require more time on the grill.
3. Can I Make Alice Springs Chicken in the Oven?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked. Then follow the same steps for assembling with bacon, mushrooms, and cheese.
4. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through.
5. Can I Freeze Alice Springs Chicken?
Yes, freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily recreate at home with just a few simple ingredients. The blend of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melty cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce transforms ordinary chicken into a decadent meal. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty and flavorful dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table.
For more amazing chicken recipes and meal inspirations, and explore other delicious ideas(Allrecipes).