Outback Steakhouse is famous for its tasty dishes, and the Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite. This dish is a home version of a restaurant meal that impresses everyone. It’s loaded with cheese, bacon, veggies, and a sweet sauce, making it perfect for any weeknight.
Even better, it’s cooked in just one skillet! I tried to make it just like Outback’s, adding a few special touches of my own.
Table of Contents
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite dish from the United States, not from the Australian city it’s named after. It was made famous by the Outback Steakhouse restaurant. This dish has become a staple on their menu.
Origin and Inspiration
The name “Alice Springs” might make you think of Australia, but the dish’s roots are American. The Outback Steakhouse, known for its Australian theme, created the Alice Springs Chicken recipe.
The dish was named after Alice Springs in central Australia. But its taste and cooking style are truly American. It combines honey mustard marinade, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Even though it’s not from Australia, Alice Springs Chicken is loved by many. It shows the creativity and skill of the Outback Steakhouse team. It’s also inspired many home cooks to make it in their kitchens.
Ingredients for the Honey Mustard Marinade
The honey mustard marinade is what makes Alice Springs Chicken special. It’s a mix of ingredients that gives the dish its unique taste. Let’s explore the key ingredients in this tasty marinade.
Marinade Essentials
The honey mustard marinade is simple yet full of flavor. It’s made from just a few important ingredients:
- Whole Grain Mustard: This mustard adds a rich, grainy texture to the marinade.
- Maple Syrup: A bit of maple syrup balances the mustard’s tanginess.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise makes the marinade stick to the chicken and adds creaminess.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy note to the flavor.
These ingredients come together to make a marinade that gives the chicken a sweet-and-tangy taste. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour. Overnight is even better.
Remember to save some marinade for a dipping sauce. It’s a delicious addition to the juicy chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
To make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer taste.
First, marinate the chicken in a honey mustard mix. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, marinate it for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Next, sear the chicken to get a golden-brown crust. Cook it in a skillet over medium-high heat or grill it for 5 minutes on each side. This step makes the chicken look great and keeps it juicy.
After searing, bake the chicken in a hot oven until it’s fully cooked. Bake at 400°F to keep the crust crisp. With these steps, you’ll have the chicken ready for a delicious meal.
| Preparation Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Marinate the chicken in the honey mustard mixture | 30 minutes to 24 hours |
| Sear the chicken in a skillet or on the grill | 5 minutes per side |
| Bake the chicken in the oven | Until the internal temperature reaches 165°F |
By following these steps, your Alice Springs Chicken will be perfectly cooked. It will have a juicy inside and a crispy, golden-brown outside. Your taste buds will love it.
Sautéing the Mushrooms
The sautéed mushrooms are key to making the Alice Springs Chicken taste great. You’ll need fresh white button mushrooms for this. Start by melting a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Then, add the sliced mushrooms.
Stir the mushrooms occasionally until they’re tender and lightly golden. This should take about 5-7 minutes. As they cook, they’ll release juices that smell amazing, making you eager to taste them.
Once the sautéed mushrooms are done, set them aside. They’ll be added to the chicken later. The mix of the marinade and mushrooms makes the chicken truly special.
“The sautéed mushrooms are the unsung heroes of the Alice Springs Chicken. They add an incredible depth of flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken and crispy bacon.”
To get the best sautéed mushrooms, cook them over medium-high heat. Stir often until they’re tender and golden. This simple step will make your Alice Springs Chicken even more delicious.
The Crispy Bacon Topping
No Alice Springs Chicken is complete without the crispy bacon topping. Cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crisp, then crumble it over the chicken before baking. The bacon adds a delightful savory and crunchy element to this beloved dish.
To create the crispy bacon topping, start by cooking 6 slices of bacon in a skillet until they reach the desired level of crispness. Once the bacon is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess grease. Then, use your hands to crumble the bacon into small pieces, ready to be sprinkled over the Alice Springs Chicken.
The crispy bacon topping is the perfect finishing touch, adding a delectable crunch and depth of flavor to the dish. The salty, smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the honey mustard marinade, creating a harmony of tastes and textures that will have your taste buds singing.
Don’t skimp on the bacon topping – it’s an essential component that truly elevates the Alice Springs Chicken to new heights. So be sure to generously sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top before baking for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
recipe for alice springs chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite dish from Outback Steakhouse. This recipe lets you make it at home. It has juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, and melted cheese.
Ingredients for the Full Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about ¾-inch thick
- 8 oz. fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
Honey Mustard Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions for Making Alice Springs Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms until they are tender and lightly browned.
- In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the honey mustard sauce.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Spread the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Top the chicken with the sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese blend.
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe for Alice Springs Chicken is easy and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic Outback Steakhouse dish at home. You’ll love the juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Cheese Selection
Choosing the right cheese for alice springs chicken is key. A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar is ideal. Monterey Jack melts well, while cheddar adds a sharp taste.
Melty Cheese Options
For the best melty cheese for alice springs chicken, try these:
- Monterey Jack: This cheese melts well, adding a creamy texture to the dish.
- Cheddar: A classic, cheddar brings a tangy flavor that balances the honey mustard.
- Colby Jack: A mix of Colby and Monterey Jack, it’s smooth and mild.
- Pepper Jack: For a spicy twist, pepper jack adds a subtle kick.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match cheese options for alice springs chicken. The goal is to find a mix that melts well and tastes great. This will make your Alice Springs Chicken dish even more special.
Serving Suggestions
Alice Springs Chicken is a tasty dish that goes well with many sides. You can make a full meal or just add something to the saucy chicken. There are lots of choices.
Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. They’re creamy and comfy, perfect with the chicken and honey mustard sauce. Or, try roasted broccoli or green beans for a fresh, crunchy touch.
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Fresh house salad
A fresh house salad with a zesty dressing is a great light side. The honey mustard sauce from the chicken is also great on the salad.
For extra sauce, serve with crusty bread or rolls. The sauce is amazing as a dip or on the chicken.
| Side Dish | Calories | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes (1 cup) | 237 | 9 |
| Roasted Broccoli (1 cup) | 55 | 3 |
| Green Beans (1 cup) | 44 | 0 |
| House Salad (1 cup) | 25 | 1 |
Whatever side you pick, Alice Springs Chicken will be a hit. Try different sides to find your favorite.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper Storage Techniques
If you have leftover Alice Springs Chicken, you can store it for later. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken for 2-3 months. To reheat, put it in a dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warm. This method prevents the chicken from drying out.
When thawing frozen leftovers, do it in the fridge overnight. This slow thaw keeps the chicken moist and tender. With these steps, you can enjoy your Alice Springs Chicken for days.
Follow these easy steps to how to store alice springs chicken leftovers and reheat alice springs chicken. Your Alice Springs Chicken will taste just as good the second time.
Variations and Substitutions
The classic Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a treat, but you can make it your own. Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick. Caramelized onions under the cheese add a rich flavor.
Missing some ingredients? No worries! Use Dijon mustard instead of whole grain mustard. Or, swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier bite. These tweaks keep the dish exciting, even when your pantry is bare.
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Mustard | Dijon Mustard |
| Chicken Breasts | Chicken Thighs |
| Plain Yogurt | Sour Cream |
| Cheddar Cheese | Monterey Jack Cheese |
Be creative and try new flavors to make the Alice Springs Chicken your own. The options are endless, making this dish a favorite for many.
“Customizing recipes is half the fun of cooking. Get creative and make the Alice Springs Chicken your own!”
Want a spicier marinade or caramelized onions? Maybe a different cheese? The Alice Springs Chicken is flexible, letting you experiment and find your favorite version.
Conclusion
The Alice Springs Chicken is a true culinary masterpiece. It combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in one dish. Now, you can make this Outback Steakhouse favorite at home.
This dish has tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. It’s all coated in a delicious honey mustard sauce. It’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a great meal, the Alice Springs Chicken is perfect. By marinating the chicken and sautéing the veggies, you’ll get a fantastic dining experience. So, why not try this classic recipe and discover its magic?
This dish has a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a showstopper that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. So, give it a try and see why it’s a beloved classic.