Delicious Alice Springs Chicken Recipe (Outback Copycat) – Easy & Tasty!

Introduction

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly cooked piece of chicken smothered in honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese. If you’ve ever been to Outback Steakhouse, you likely know the joy of their famous Alice Springs Chicken. This dish has won the hearts of food lovers across the country with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.

Alice Springs Chicken gets its name from the town of Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory. While Outback Steakhouse created this as part of their Australian-themed menu, it has become an American restaurant favorite. The combination of marinated chicken breast, honey mustard sauce, bacon, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s impossible to resist.

Beyond its incredible taste, this dish also packs some nutritional benefits. Chicken breast provides lean protein essential for muscle growth and repair. The honey in the marinade offers natural sweetness with antibacterial properties, while mustard contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. When you make this copycat recipe at home, you can control the ingredients, reducing sodium and preservatives found in restaurant versions.

What makes this Alice Springs Chicken recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality results. The marinade works its magic to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful, while the toppings create layers of taste that will impress family and friends alike. Best of all, you don’t need chef-level skills to perfect this dish – just quality ingredients and a little patience while the chicken marinates.

Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

To make this mouth-watering Outback copycat Alice Springs Chicken at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Honey Mustard Marinade:

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Toppings:

• 8-10 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
• 2 cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese, or a mix of Monterey Jack and Cheddar if preferred
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

The beauty of this recipe lies in using simple, fresh ingredients that work together to create something spectacular. The honey mustard sauce doubles as both a marinade and a serving sauce, infusing the chicken with flavor while also providing a delicious topping. When shopping for chicken breast, look for pieces that are similar in size to ensure even cooking time.

For the best flavor, use real honey rather than honey substitutes. The quality of your Dijon mustard also matters – a good Dijon will have a complex, tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the honey. Fresh garlic always provides better flavor than pre-minced varieties, though the latter will work in a pinch if you’re short on time.

The bacon adds a salty, smoky element that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy honey mustard. For best results, choose thick-cut bacon that will hold up when baked without becoming too crispy or burning.

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Creating this Outback copycat Alice Springs Chicken at home is easier than you might think. The process involves marinating the chicken, cooking it, and then adding those delicious toppings. Let’s break it down into simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, and soy sauce until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix again.
3. Set aside about 1/3 cup of the marinade to use as a sauce for serving later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. If the chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Season both sides of each chicken breast with seasoned salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the remaining marinade over them.
4. Make sure each piece of chicken is well coated with the marinade.
5. Cover or seal and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. While the chicken is marinating, cook the bacon until crispy.
2. Lay the bacon strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy, or cook in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

1. Brush each chicken breast with a bit of the reserved honey mustard sauce.
2. Top each piece with 2-3 slices of the cooked bacon, breaking them if needed to fit.
3. Sprinkle generously with shredded Colby Jack cheese.
4. Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve with the remaining honey mustard sauce on the side.

The key to perfect Alice Springs Chicken is not rushing the process. Allowing the chicken to marinate lets the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Searing the chicken before baking gives it a beautiful color and helps lock in moisture, while the bacon and cheese topping adds richness and texture that makes this dish so special. Always ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use this USDA guide to safe cooking temperatures as a reference.

Serving Suggestions

Alice Springs Chicken is a versatile main dish that pairs wonderfully with many sides to create a complete meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside your perfectly cooked chicken:

Potato Sides

Potatoes are the classic pairing for this Outback favorite. Consider these options:

• Mashed potatoes with a touch of garlic butter make an excellent bed for the chicken, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce
• Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the tender chicken
• A loaded baked potato with sour cream, chives, and a sprinkle of extra cheese echoes the Outback Steakhouse experience

Vegetable Options

Balance the richness of the cheesy bacon-topped chicken with some vegetables:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans keep the meal light while adding color
• Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon adds sophistication
• A simple side salad with ranch or balsamic dressing provides freshness and crunch

Bread Accompaniments

Bread helps soak up the delicious honey mustard sauce:

• Warm dinner rolls with butter are simple yet satisfying
• Garlic bread provides additional flavor that pairs well with the chicken
• Texas toast is perfect if you want to recreate the steakhouse experience at home

Sauce Enhancements

While the honey mustard sauce is already built into the recipe, consider these additions:

• Serve extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping
• A small dish of BBQ sauce offers a different flavor dimension
• Ranch dressing makes a cool, creamy contrast to the warm chicken

For a complete Outback-inspired meal, serve your Alice Springs Chicken with a combination of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and warm bread. Add a cold beverage of your choice – iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer all pair wonderfully with this dish.

The beauty of this chicken recipe is that it’s substantial enough to be the star of the meal, so keep your sides simple to let the chicken shine. For special occasions, a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio makes an excellent companion to the honey mustard flavors.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Chicken Preparation Tips:

• For the most tender chicken, marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight
• Bring the chicken to room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking for more even results
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken hits 165°F without becoming overdone
• Allow the chicken to sit for 5 minutes after baking so the juices can settle and evenly distribute.

Marinade Magic:

• Save time by making extra marinade to use throughout the week on other dishes
• For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade
• The honey mustard sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container
• For a tangier sauce, increase the amount of Dijon mustard

Cooking Tricks:

• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular pan, then transfer to a baking dish
• You can also grill the chicken instead of baking it – cook on medium-high heat until almost done, then add the toppings and close the grill until the cheese melts
• For a crispier bacon topping, add the bacon after the chicken is almost done baking
• If your chicken breasts are very thick, butterfly them instead of pounding for a different presentation

Delicious Variations

Protein Swaps:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful, juicy result
• Turkey breast cutlets make a great alternative to chicken
• For a smaller portion, use chicken tenders and reduce the cooking time

Cheese Choices:

• Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick
• Swiss cheese offers a milder, nutty flavor
• A sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles mixed with the Colby Jack creates a more complex flavor profile

Dietary Adaptations:

• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the marinade
• Reduce the amount of cheese and bacon for fewer calories
• Use sugar-free honey alternatives if watching your sugar intake

Flavor Twists:

• Add sliced mushrooms beneath the cheese for an earthy dimension
• Top with caramelized onions for sweetness
• Mix a tablespoon of bourbon into the marinade for a smoky depth
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade

Remember that the key to great Alice Springs Chicken is balance – the sweet honey, tangy mustard, salty bacon, and rich cheese all work together to create that perfect bite. Feel free to adjust any element to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the overall harmony of flavors.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of Alice Springs Chicken can help you incorporate this delicious dish into your balanced diet. While this Outback copycat recipe is certainly indulgent, knowing the nutritional breakdown allows you to plan the rest of your day’s meals accordingly.

Basic Nutritional Breakdown

Per serving (1 chicken breast with toppings):

• Calories: Approximately 550-650 calories
• Protein: 45-50 grams
• Total Fat: 30-35 grams
• Saturated Fat: 12-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Sugars: 12-15 grams (primarily from honey)
• Fiber: 0-1 grams
• Sodium: 900-1200 mg

Main Contributors to Nutritional Values

Chicken Breast: The boneless skinless chicken breast provides most of the protein in this dish with minimal fat. A typical 6-ounce chicken breast contains about:

• 180 calories
• 36 grams of protein
• 4 grams of fat

Honey Mustard Marinade: The sauce adds flavor but also contributes sugars and fats:

• Honey adds natural sugars and about 60 calories per tablespoon
• Mayonnaise contributes most of the fat content in the marinade
• Dijon mustard adds minimal calories but significant flavor

Bacon and Cheese Toppings: These ingredients significantly increase the calorie, fat, and sodium content:

• Each slice of bacon adds approximately 40-45 calories and 3-4 grams of fat
• The Colby Jack cheese adds about 110 calories and 9 grams of fat per ounce

Making It Healthier

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie content:

• Use half the amount of cheese
• Limit to one slice of bacon per chicken breast
• Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise in the marinade
• Use a sugar-free honey alternative to reduce carbohydrates

Dietary Considerations

• This recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients used are certified gluten-free
• It’s low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following lower-carb eating plans
• The dish is high in protein, supporting muscle maintenance and providing satiety
• The sodium content is moderate to high, something to consider if you’re watching salt intake

Remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. When served with sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables, be sure to account for those additional nutritional values in your overall meal planning.

Want to tweak the ingredients or track your macros? Use MyFitnessPal’s recipe calculator to analyze your customized version of this dish.

FAQs

Conclusion & Call to Action

Alice Springs Chicken is more than just a delicious meal – it’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can recreate restaurant-quality magic right at home. With its juicy marinated chicken, rich honey mustard sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

We’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you make any tasty twists or serve it with a unique side? Share your feedback in the comments or tag us in your food photos – your version might just inspire someone else!

Looking for more comforting chicken recipes? Check out these next:

• Brine Chicken the Easy Way for Perfect Tenderness
• Quick Chicken Breakfast Recipes
• Chicken Wing Brine You’ll Instantly Fall in Love With
  

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