Did you know the original Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse has 756 calories and 47 grams of fat? But, our easy recipe lets you make a healthier version at home. It has just 264 calories and 9 grams of fat.
With this recipe, you can enjoy the delicious taste of this Aussie-inspired dish. And you can do it in a fraction of the time, with a healthier twist.
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What Makes Alice Springs Chicken Special
Alice Springs Chicken is a dish loved by many. It started at Outback Steakhouse, a popular restaurant chain. This Aussie-inspired chicken recipe is known for its great taste and simple steps to make.
The dish combines tender chicken, savory bacon, melted cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce. This mix makes it a favorite at dinner time.
Origins at Outback Steakhouse
The Alice Springs Chicken was first introduced at Outback Steakhouse. This restaurant is known for its Australian-themed dishes. The dish quickly became a hit, becoming one of the restaurant’s top choices.
Now, home cooks can make this dish in their own kitchens. They can enjoy the same flavors as the restaurant.
Why This Recipe Is Popular
The Alice Springs Chicken recipe is loved for many reasons. It has a great mix of flavors, with chicken, bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce. It’s also easy to make, perfect for a quick dinner.
Plus, it’s great as leftovers. This means you can enjoy the flavors again the next day.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings | 385kcal per serving | 4.94 from 16 votes |
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish
Making the tasty Alice Springs Chicken needs a few key ingredients. At its core are boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the perfect base for flavors. For a savory crunch, bacon must be crisped just right. Mushrooms add earthiness, while Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses melt into a creamy topping.
The real star is the honey mustard sauce. It’s a mix of Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. This sauce brings together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, enhancing the dish.
Adding Cajun seasoning or sautéed yellow onions in butter can also boost the taste and smell of your Alice Springs Chicken.
With the right mix of chicken marinade, chicken seasoning, and chicken rub, you can make a top-notch Alice Springs Chicken at home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1.5-2 pounds |
| Bacon | 6-8 slices |
| Mushrooms | 8 ounces |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | 6 ounces, shredded |
| Cheddar Cheese | 6 ounces, shredded |
| Dijon Mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Cajun Seasoning (optional) | To taste |
| Yellow Onion (optional) | 1 small, diced |
| Butter (for sautéing onions) | 1 tablespoon |
The Secret Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe
The honey mustard sauce is the star of the Alice Springs Chicken. It’s creamy and adds tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Let’s explore the secret ingredients and tips for this irresistible sauce.
Sauce Ingredients Breakdown
The Alice Springs Chicken sauce is made from a few key ingredients:
- ¾ cup of mayonnaise – Provides a rich, creamy base.
- ¼ cup of honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard – Lends a bold, pungent flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice – Brightens up the sauce with a subtle citrus note.
Mixing and Storage Tips
To make the perfect honey mustard sauce, mix all ingredients in a bowl. Whisk until well-incorporated. For a spicier version, use hot honey instead of regular honey.
The sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just stir it well before using, as ingredients may separate.
Versatile Uses for the Sauce
This honey mustard sauce is great for more than just Alice Springs Chicken. It’s perfect as a dipping sauce for spicy chicken tenders or chicken marinade. It’s also great as a salad dressing or sandwich spread. Get creative and enjoy it in many ways!
Preparing Your Chicken for Maximum Flavor
To elevate your Alice Springs Chicken, start with the right chicken prep. Pound the chicken breasts to about 3/4 inch thick. This makes sure they cook evenly and soak up the chicken marinade, chicken seasoning, or chicken rub well.
Adding a Cajun or Creole spice blend can give your chicken a zesty twist. These spices pair well with the honey mustard sauce. Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes. Or, for even more flavor, marinate it for up to 2 hours.
For perfectly cooked Alice Springs Chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer is your best friend here. It ensures your chicken is not only safe but also full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Alice Springs Chicken
Make your dinner special with the classic grilled chicken dish, Alice Springs Chicken. It’s a favorite from Outback Steakhouse. It has juicy chicken, savory bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. Follow this guide to make it at home.
Marinating Process
Begin by marinating the chicken in a mix of Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. This marinade makes the chicken tender and flavorful. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
Cooking Techniques
After marinating, it’s time to cook. Start by frying the bacon until it’s crispy. Keep the bacon fat to sauté the mushrooms and onions. Then, grill or pan-sear the chicken until it’s golden and cooked.
Assembly Instructions
To put the dish together, place the grilled chicken on a baking sheet. Add honey mustard sauce, sautéed mushrooms and onions, crumbled bacon, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top of each chicken breast.
Bake in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy your Alice Springs Chicken!
Mastering the Mushroom and Bacon Topping
Elevate your grilled chicken with a tasty mushroom and bacon topping. Start by cooking sliced button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms in butter or bacon grease. Cook them until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
After the mushrooms are done, add thinly sliced onions and sauté for another minute or two.
Then, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Crumble it into small pieces. Place the sautéed mushrooms and crumbled bacon on top of your grilled chicken. Add melted cheese on top. This mix of savory, earthy flavors and textures will elevate your dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella) | 8 oz, sliced |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Bacon, cooked until crispy | 6 slices, crumbled |
| Butter or Bacon Grease | 2 tablespoons |
Mastering the mushroom and bacon topping will elevate your grilled chicken. The mix of savory mushrooms and crispy bacon is a culinary dream.
“The mushroom and bacon topping is the secret weapon that takes this spicy chicken recipe to the next level.”
Perfect Cheese Selection and Melting Tips
For the best Alice Springs chicken, pick cheeses that melt well and match the dish’s taste. Use a mix of Colby jack, Monterey Jack, and cheddar cheese. These cheeses make a creamy, gooey topping that elevates your chicken.
Best Cheese Combinations
- Colby Jack Cheese: This mild, semi-soft cheese melts easily, providing a smooth and creamy texture.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: With its slightly nutty flavor, Monterey Jack adds depth and richness to the cheese blend.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese brings a tangy and bold note that balances the other cheeses perfectly.
Melting Techniques
To get even melting, shred the cheese yourself. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and avoids clumps. Sprinkle it over the chicken and toppings, then bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes until it’s bubbly.
| Ingredient | Amount | Nutritional Value (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Colby Jack Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | 256 calories, 21g fat, 12g saturated fat, 32g protein |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | 208 calories, 16g fat, 10g saturated fat, 26g protein |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | 452 calories, 38g fat, 24g saturated fat, 28g protein |
By using these tips and the right cheese mix, your Alice Springs chicken will be irresistible. The melted cheese adds flavor and texture, making your chicken recipe even better.
Side Dish Recommendations
Looking for the perfect side dishes to go with aussie chicken or grilled chicken? There are many great choices that can make your meal even better. Here are some side dish ideas that will complement the main course:
- Green beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh touch. They balance the savory taste of aussie chicken.
- Oven-roasted asparagus: Its tender and slightly crispy texture contrasts well with the tender grilled chicken.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. They soak up the flavorful sauce from aussie chicken.
- Baked potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes are a hearty side. They let you add your favorite toppings to the grilled chicken.
For a lighter option, try a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. They add a refreshing touch to the rich flavors of the main dish.
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 80 kcal |
| Oven-Roasted Asparagus | 5 minutes | 20 minutes | 25 minutes | 90 kcal |
| Mashed Potatoes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 200 kcal |
| Baked Potatoes | 10 minutes | 60 minutes | 70 minutes | 270 kcal |
Adding these side dishes to your meal will make it more balanced and satisfying. It will highlight the delicious flavors of aussie chicken or grilled chicken.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the delicious Alice Springs Chicken even after your first meal. Proper storage and reheating are key. This easy chicken recipe can be a weekly favorite, thanks to its storage and reheating options.
Proper Storage Methods
Keep your Alice Springs Chicken fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
When freezing, use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the dish quality high.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your leftover Alice Springs Chicken safely, use the oven or air fryer. Heat it until it reaches 165°F. Avoid the microwave to prevent rubbery chicken and sauce separation.
If the sauce separates, add a tablespoon of heavy cream. This will mix it back together.
Follow these storage and reheating tips to enjoy Alice Springs Chicken’s delicious flavors for longer. Discover its versatility and make it a weekly meal staple.