Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you’ve likely encountered their legendary Alice Springs Chicken—a dish so rich and flavorful, it’s practically unforgettable. Tender chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that keeps people coming back for more. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true copycat recipe that brings this restaurant favorite right to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or planning a special meal, this Alice Springs Chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Alice Springs Chicken recipe, but here are just a few that make it stand out:

  • Restaurant-quality flavor at home: Skip the wait and enjoy the same bold, savory-sweet taste of Outback’s signature dish without leaving your house.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients: No fancy techniques or hard-to-find components—just straightforward cooking that yields incredible results.
  • Perfect for meal prep or entertaining: This dish is as suitable for a quiet family dinner as it is for serving guests at a dinner party.
  • Customizable to your taste: Love extra cheese? Prefer a spicier kick? This recipe is adaptable to suit your preferences.
  • Crowd-pleasing comfort food: The combination of juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and melty cheese makes this a dish everyone will adore.

Ingredients Breakdown

Every ingredient in this Alice Springs Chicken recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

  • Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, boneless and skinless chicken breasts provide a lean yet tender base. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures even cooking.
  • Honey mustard sauce: A blend of honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise creates the sweet-tangy glaze that defines this dish.
  • Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  • Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms contribute an earthy depth, balancing the sweetness of the honey mustard.
  • Cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese melts perfectly over the chicken, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
  • Seasonings: A simple mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this beloved dish at home:

  1. Prep the chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) to ensure they cook uniformly. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for added flavor.
  3. Sear the chicken: In the same skillet, cook the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Sauté the mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender and lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. Assemble the dish: Spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast. Top with sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
  6. Melt the cheese: Place the skillet under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  7. Serve hot: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra honey mustard sauce if desired, and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

To take your Alice Springs Chicken to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:

  • Don’t skip pounding the chicken: This step ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin for best results.
  • Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability. Grating your own ensures a smoother, creamier texture.
  • Broil for the perfect finish: A quick broil gives the cheese that irresistible golden-brown crust while keeping the chicken juicy.
  • Let the chicken rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before topping and broiling to lock in juices.
  • Adjust the honey mustard to taste: If you prefer a tangier sauce, add more mustard. For extra sweetness, drizzle with additional honey before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to make it your own:

  • Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce or top with jalapeños for heat.
  • Lighter option: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce and use turkey bacon for a leaner version.
  • Different cheeses: Try sharp cheddar, pepper Jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian adaptation: Replace chicken with thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu, keeping all other elements the same.
  • Extra veggies: Add sautéed onions or spinach for additional layers of flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve With It

Alice Springs Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some winning combinations:

  • Classic steakhouse sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a loaded baked potato complete the meal.
  • Fresh salads: A crisp garden salad with ranch dressing or a tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the dish.
  • Buttery rolls or bread: Sop up every last bit of honey mustard sauce with warm, crusty bread.
  • Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet corn adds a summery touch and complements the smoky bacon.
  • Wine pairing: A chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty:

  • Refrigeration: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more richness and moisture, though cooking times may vary slightly.

What’s the best substitute for honey mustard sauce? If you’re out of honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar mixed with mustard for a similar effect.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the chicken up to the broiling step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Broil just before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning under the broiler? Keep a close eye on it and remove the dish as soon as the cheese is melted and lightly browned—this usually takes just 2–3 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free? As written, yes! Just ensure your mustard and bacon are certified gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about recreating a restaurant favorite at home, and this Alice Springs Chicken recipe is no exception. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for both weeknights and celebrations. The first time I made this for my family, the plates were clean within minutes—always the best compliment a home cook can receive. Whether you’re an Outback enthusiast or simply looking for a new chicken recipe to add to your rotation, I hope this copycat version brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Happy cooking!

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Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

  • Author: Copycat Recipe Generator

Description

A delicious copycat version of Outback Steakhouse’s famous Alice Springs Chicken, featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with mushrooms, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a honey mustard sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • For the chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the toppings:
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
  • For the honey mustard sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (chicken will finish cooking in the oven).
  4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and lemon juice to make the honey mustard sauce.
  6. Spread half of the honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts.
  7. Top each chicken breast with sliced mushrooms, 2 slices of bacon, and shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
  9. Serve with remaining honey mustard sauce on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate chicken in the honey mustard sauce for 1-2 hours before cooking. Substitute Monterey Jack cheese if Colby-Jack isn’t available.

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