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Alice Springs Chicken is my go-to meal when I want comfort food that feels a little special but is still easy enough for a busy weeknight. It brings that Outback Steakhouse restaurant flavor right into your own kitchen with creamy honey mustard, lots of melty cheese, savory bacon, and optional golden mushrooms. Every bite is a delicious combination that feels both cozy and celebratory.
The first time I made this recipe was for my husband’s birthday after we missed going to Outback. Now he claims it tops the original and my kids always fight for the cheesiest piece. Family favorite for sure.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose plump firm pieces Slice horizontally for even cooking
- Cooked bacon: Go for thick cut for maximum flavor and a meaty bite
- Monterey Jack cheese: Look for a block and grate it fresh for best melt Stretchy and creamy
- Mayonnaise: Full fat tastes richer It helps keep the chicken moist
- Honey: Use pure honey for floral sweetness
- Stone ground mustard: Brings texture and tang Choose one with visible seeds for the best look
- Salt pepper paprika: Essentials for seasoning poultry Use fresh spices for extra aroma
- Vegetable oil: Needed for browning chicken before baking Opt for a neutral oil like canola
- Optional mushrooms: Fresh white button mushrooms sautéed add complexity and a little earthiness Clean and slice before adding
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry then slice horizontally so each piece is an even thickness This helps them cook at the same rate and lets you layer on more toppings
- Brown the Chicken:
- Season both sides generously with salt pepper and paprika Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium high Add the chicken and brown until each side has a golden crust about three to four minutes per side Do not crowd the pan so the pieces sear not steam
- Arrange in a Baking Dish:
- Move the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish Arrange them in one flat layer so the toppings bake evenly
- Mix the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise honey and stone ground mustard until smooth Taste and adjust the honey for more sweetness or mustard for extra tang
- Build the Layers:
- Spread a generous layer of the sauce over each chicken piece Make sure every spot is covered Top with an even sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and drape cooked bacon slices over each piece For those who love mushrooms now is the time to sprinkle on sautéed mushrooms
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in a 350 degree oven Bake uncovered for about twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is molten and bubbling and the chicken is fully cooked
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving Spoon a little extra honey mustard on top for extra flavor The leftover pan juices make a tasty drizzle
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My favorite part of making this recipe is always the bacon There is something about getting that salty smoky bite alongside creamy cheese and chicken that everyone loves It reminds me of Sundays when we cook together and try to outdo each other with the crispiest bacon strips
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese stretchy and moist. If you plan to freeze the dish, wrap portions tightly and thaw before reheating for best quality.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Monterey Jack cheese, mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar works well. No stone ground mustard? A good Dijon or even yellow mustard gives a similar zip. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used for a lighter or meatless take. For a mushroomy twist, try cremini instead of button mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Alice Springs Chicken is perfect with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables. For heartier fare, try it alongside mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes. Crusty bread makes great use of any extra honey mustard sauce and gooey cheese left on the plate.
Cultural Context
The dish is inspired by Outback Steakhouse, which has roots in mimicking Australian flavors for American tastes. Alice Springs is a city in the heart of Australia, but this recipe is really American comfort food in disguise, celebrating bold combos of savory and sweet. For many, it has become a classic copycat meal at home.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you keep the chicken juicy?
Brown the chicken on both sides and avoid overbaking to keep it moist. A quick marinade helps tenderize the meat for juicier results.
- → Can you add mushrooms to the dish?
Yes, sauté white button mushrooms in oil and layer them over the chicken before adding cheese and bacon for extra flavor.
- → What cheese works best?
Monterey Jack cheese melts well and complements the honey mustard, but you can use a blend with cheddar for more flavor depth.
- → How do you make the honey mustard sauce?
Combine mayonnaise, honey, and stone-ground mustard for a sweet and tangy sauce perfect for topping chicken and serving alongside.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead?
Assemble the chicken with sauce, bacon, and cheese in advance. Bake when ready to serve for fresh, melted cheese topping.
- → Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
Browning adds extra flavor and locks in juices, but you can skip it for a quicker preparation, though the texture may differ.