Are you craving that famous Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse—the one with juicy chicken breasts smothered in crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a rich honey mustard sauce? Imagine recreating that signature dish right in your own kitchen without any hassle or expensive dining out.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover an easy yet authentic copycat recipe for Alice Springs Chicken, complete with expert cooking tips, ingredient alternatives, and tricks to make it a family favorite. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe will deliver all the bold, savory flavors and melty cheese goodness that make this dish a star.
What Is Alice Springs Chicken? A Taste of Outback Steakhouse at Home
Alice Springs Chicken is a popular menu item at Outback Steakhouse, known for its unique combination of tender grilled chicken breast topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese (usually a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack), and a tangy honey mustard sauce. The dish gets its name from Alice Springs, a town in Australia, reflecting the restaurant’s Aussie theme.
This dish balances savory, smoky, creamy, and sweet flavors perfectly, making it irresistibly delicious. The creamy honey mustard sauce complements the salty bacon and gooey cheese beautifully, while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Why Make This Copycat Recipe at Home?
Dining out is fun, but cooking the Alice Springs Chicken copycat recipe at home has many advantages:
- Save money: Enjoy restaurant-quality food for a fraction of the price.
- Control ingredients: Choose fresh, organic, or allergen-friendly options.
- Customize: Add or omit mushrooms, adjust cheese types, or spice it up as you like.
- Fresh and hot: Serve it right off the oven without waiting or dealing with takeout packaging.
- Impress guests: This dish looks and tastes like a gourmet meal perfect for dinner parties.
Key Ingredients: Building Blocks of Flavor
Before diving into cooking, let’s explore the essential ingredients that bring this dish to life.
| Ingredient | Purpose/Role | Alternatives & Tips |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4) | Main protein, flattened for even cooking | Use chicken thighs for juicier texture |
| Bacon slices (6) | Adds smoky crunch | Turkey bacon for lower fat option |
| Dried onion flakes (2 tsp) | Adds subtle onion flavor | Fresh finely chopped onions |
| Honey (1/3 cup) | Provides sweetness in sauce | Maple syrup or agave nectar |
| Yellow mustard (1/4 cup) | Tangy base of sauce | Dijon mustard for a sharper kick |
| Mayonnaise (2 tbsp) | Creamy texture for sauce | Greek yogurt for a healthier swap |
| Shredded cheese (2 cups) | Melted cheesy topping | Colby-Jack blend recommended; mozzarella or cheddar work too |
| Salt to taste | Enhances flavor | Use sea salt or kosher salt |
| Optional: sliced mushrooms (1 cup) | Adds umami and texture | Fresh button or cremini mushrooms |
Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
1. Prep Your Chicken
Begin by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures the chicken cooks uniformly, staying juicy and tender rather than drying out. Season both sides generously with salt.
2. Crisp the Bacon
Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble when cool. Don’t discard the bacon fat—it adds incredible flavor for cooking the chicken next.
3. Sear the Chicken
Using the reserved bacon grease, cook the chicken breasts in the skillet over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. This quick sear locks in juices and builds flavor.
4. Prepare the Signature Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together dried onion flakes, honey, yellow mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth. This creamy honey mustard sauce is the star flavor that elevates the dish.
5. Assemble the Dish
Place the seared chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Spoon the honey mustard sauce evenly over each piece, reserving some sauce for dipping if you like. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the chicken, add sliced mushrooms if using, and top everything with crumbled bacon.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled dish at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the sauce will thicken slightly, coating everything deliciously.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve with extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Cooking Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
- Use a Meat Mallet: Flattening chicken breasts evens cooking time and prevents dryness.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Reserve Bacon Grease: This fat is flavorful and helps brown the chicken better.
- Customize Your Cheese: Mix cheeses for flavor depth; try smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
- Add Mushrooms or Onions: These bring an earthy richness and texture contrast.
- Make the Sauce Ahead: The honey mustard sauce can be prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld.
Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Options
Worried about dietary restrictions or prefer healthier choices? No problem!
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients like mustard and mayonnaise are gluten-free certified.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and vegan mayo.
- Low-Fat: Swap bacon for turkey bacon and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
- Paleo/Keto: Omit honey or use keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol-based syrups.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu steaks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cook chicken and bacon separately, prepare sauce, then assemble and bake just before serving for the best freshness.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers without drying the chicken?
A: Reheat in an oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
Q: Can I freeze Alice Springs Chicken?
A: You can freeze it after baking. Wrap tightly in airtight containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: Creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies complement the rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal
To recreate the full Outback Steakhouse experience, consider pairing your Alice Springs Chicken with these sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Adds freshness and balance.
- Buttery Dinner Rolls: For a comforting carb element.
- Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For a casual twist.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp contrast
Health Benefits and Nutritional Insight
While Alice Springs Chicken is indulgent, it can be balanced with smart ingredient choices:
- High Protein: Chicken breasts provide lean protein essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Calcium Rich: Cheese adds calcium for bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Bacon offers flavor but use in moderation to limit saturated fat intake.
- Customizable: Adjust ingredients to reduce sugar or fat without sacrificing flavor.
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Use the oven method to maintain texture and avoid dryness.
- Freeze: Freeze portions separately for easy future meals.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Bite Count
Recreating Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken at home is not only possible but rewarding. With tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce, this dish hits every note of comfort and flavor.
Give this copycat recipe a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that your family and friends will rave about. Don’t forget to share your cooking success and any unique twists you add!
Hi! I’m Isabel, your go-to writer on mvibro.com, crafting sharp responses and witty comebacks to empower your daily conversations.