Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Dish

If you’re a fan of Outback Steakhouse, you’ve probably heard of their famous Alice Springs Chicken. This dish is a juicy grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all drizzled with a tangy honey mustard sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist, and luckily, you can easily make it at home with just a few simple ingredients.

The key to making Alice Springs Chicken is the honey mustard marinade. This sweet and tangy sauce not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also serves as the perfect complement to the smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms. Once the chicken is marinated, it’s grilled to perfection and topped with the bacon and mushroom mixture, along with a generous amount of shredded cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and finally, it’s served with extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

While the exact origin of Alice Springs Chicken is unknown, it has become a beloved staple at Outback Steakhouse. Many home cooks have attempted to recreate this dish, and there are countless copycat recipes available online. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply craving some restaurant-quality comfort food, Alice Springs Chicken is sure to satisfy.

History of Alice Springs Chicken

Alice Springs Chicken is a popular dish that originated from the Outback Steakhouse restaurant chain in the United States. The dish is named after the city of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia, which is known for its unique blend of indigenous and modern cultures.

The recipe for Alice Springs Chicken was created by Outback Steakhouse in the 1990s. It quickly became one of the most popular dishes on the menu, and customers started requesting the recipe so they could make it at home.

The recipe for Alice Springs Chicken includes chicken breast, bacon, mushrooms, cheese, and a honey mustard sauce. The chicken is grilled and then topped with the bacon, mushrooms, and cheese. The honey mustard sauce is drizzled over the top of the chicken, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.

Over the years, many variations of the recipe have been created, with some people adding different ingredients or using different cooking methods. However, the original recipe remains a favorite among Outback Steakhouse customers.

Required Ingredients

If you want to make Outback’s famous Alice Springs Chicken recipe at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:

Chicken and Marinade

• Chicken Breasts: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Aim for breasts that are around 6 ounces each.
• Honey Mustard Marinade: The marinade is what gives the chicken its signature flavor. To make the marinade, you’ll need honey, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.

Toppings

• Bacon: You’ll need hickory-smoked bacon for this recipe. You can cook the bacon until it’s crispy and then crumble it up to use as a topping.
• Cheese: You’ll need a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese for this recipe. You can either buy a pre-shredded blend or shred your own from blocks of cheese.
• Mushrooms: Fresh button or baby Bella mushrooms are the best choice for this recipe.

Sauce

• Reserved Marinade: You’ll need to set aside a small amount of the honey mustard marinade to use as a sauce for the finished dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley makes a great garnish for this dish.

Once you have all of your ingredients gathered, you’re ready to start cooking!

Kitchen Tools and Equipment

To make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Grill Pan

A grill pan is an essential tool for making Alice Springs Chicken. It’s perfect for cooking the chicken breasts to perfection, giving them those beautiful grill marks that add to the dish’s presentation.

2. Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer is a must-have tool for any cook. It ensures that your chicken is cooked to the right temperature, which is 165°F. Overcooking the chicken can make it dry and tough, while undercooking it can make you sick.

3. Mixing Bowls

When making the marinade and sauce for Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll need mixing bowls of different sizes. It’s best to use glass or stainless steel bowls as they are non-reactive and won’t affect the taste of the food.

4. Whisk

A whisk is an essential tool for mixing the marinade and sauce for Alice Springs Chicken. It helps to combine the ingredients evenly, ensuring that the flavors are well distributed.

5. Baking Dish

You’ll need a baking dish to bake the chicken breasts after you’ve smothered them in the creamy mushroom sauce. A 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for this dish.

6. Cutting Board

You’ll need a cutting board to cut the chicken breasts and bacon. It’s best to use a separate cutting board for meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.

7. Knife

A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken and bacon. It makes the job easier and safer.

With these essential tools and equipment, you’re ready to make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken.

Preparation Overview

Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. To prepare this dish, you will need to gather a few basic ingredients, including chicken breasts, bacon, mushrooms, cheese, and a few other pantry staples.

The first step in preparing Alice Springs Chicken is to marinate the chicken breasts in a tangy honey Dijon marinade. To make the marinade, whisk together mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Reserve ¼ cup of the sauce in a covered container and refrigerate until serving time. Meanwhile, place the chicken breast in a large plastic zipper-top bag and pour in the remaining sauce. Turn the bag until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.

Once the chicken has marinated for at least an hour, it’s time to start cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F and cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. While the chicken is cooking, fry some bacon until it is crispy and set it aside. Then, sauté sliced mushrooms until they are tender and set them aside as well.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and top each breast with a slice of cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and shredded cheese. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the reserved honey mustard sauce over the top. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Alice Springs Chicken!

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is the most important step in making Alice Springs Chicken. The marinade is what gives the chicken its unique flavor. The marinade is a mixture of honey mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Culinary Hill suggests whisking the ingredients together in a small bowl to make the marinade.

To marinate the chicken, place the chicken breasts in a large plastic zipper-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and turn the bag until the chicken is evenly coated. Culinary Hill recommends reserving ¼ cup of the marinade in a covered container and refrigerating it until serving time.

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating it overnight will give it the best flavor. You can also add some spices to the marinade to give the chicken an extra kick. For example, adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can make the chicken spicy.

It is important to note that the marinade contains mayonnaise, which can spoil if left at room temperature for too long. Easy Weeknight Recipes suggests marinating the chicken in the refrigerator to prevent the mayonnaise from spoiling.

Overall, marinating the chicken is a crucial step in making Alice Springs Chicken. The honey mustard marinade gives the chicken its unique flavor and should be allowed to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grilling Techniques

If you’re looking to get that perfect char on your Alice Springs Chicken, grilling is the way to go. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect grilled chicken:

Outdoor Grilling

When grilling outdoors, it’s important to have the right equipment. Make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled before you start cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F.

To prevent sticking, brush the chicken with oil and place it on the grill with the smooth side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Indoor Cooking Alternatives

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, there are still ways to get that grilled flavor. You can use a stovetop grill pan or a cast-iron skillet. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and brush it with oil.

Place the chicken on the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks. Again, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Another alternative is to bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. For a crispy exterior, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

No matter what cooking method you choose, be sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Enjoy your delicious Alice Springs Chicken!

Assembling the Dish

Now that you have marinated the chicken, it’s time to assemble the Alice Springs Chicken dish. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Take the marinated chicken breasts out of the refrigerator and discard the marinade.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and top each breast with a slice of cooked bacon.
5. Spread a generous amount of honey mustard dressing over each chicken breast. You can make the dressing by combining Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise in a small bowl.
6. Sprinkle a mixture of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese over the chicken breasts.
7. Add sliced mushrooms to the baking dish around the chicken breasts.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

You can serve Alice Springs Chicken with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!

Baking Instructions

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt and pepper. You can use chicken breast, cutlets, or thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference.

Next, place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard marinade over it. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. If you have any leftover marinade, you can save it for later.

After that, add the sautéed mushrooms on top of the chicken. You can use button or baby Bella mushrooms for this recipe. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the mushrooms.

Finally, add a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese on top of everything. You can also use Colby Jack cheese if you prefer.

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it’s done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

In summary, to bake Alice Springs Chicken, you need to season the chicken, add the honey mustard marinade, mushrooms, bacon, and cheese, and bake it in the oven for 25 minutes. It’s a simple and delicious recipe that you can easily make at home.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have made the delicious Alice Springs Chicken, it’s time to think about serving it. Here are some suggestions to make the most out of this dish:

Side Dishes

Alice Springs Chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy and garlicky flavor of mashed potatoes goes perfectly with the savory taste of Alice Springs Chicken. You can also add some grated cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Steamed Vegetables: A healthy and colorful side dish that complements the rich flavor of Alice Springs Chicken. You can use any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Caesar Salad: The tangy and creamy dressing of Caesar salad is a great contrast to the salty and savory flavor of Alice Springs Chicken. You can also add some croutons for a crunchy texture.

Wine Pairing

If you’re planning to serve Alice Springs Chicken for a special occasion, you might want to consider pairing it with a good wine. Here are some suggestions:

• Chardonnay: A full-bodied white wine with a buttery and oaky flavor that goes well with the cheesy and savory taste of Alice Springs Chicken.
• Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red wine with a fruity and earthy flavor that complements the mushroom and bacon in Alice Springs Chicken.
• Zinfandel: A medium-bodied red wine with a spicy and fruity flavor that goes well with the honey mustard marinade in Alice Springs Chicken.

Dessert

After a filling meal of Alice Springs Chicken and sides, you might want to end the night with a sweet dessert. Here are some suggestions:

• Apple Pie: The sweet and tangy flavor of apple pie is a classic dessert that goes well with the savory taste of Alice Springs Chicken.
• Chocolate Cake: A rich and decadent dessert that complements the hearty flavor of Alice Springs Chicken. You can also add some fresh berries or whipped cream for a refreshing touch.
• Cheesecake: A creamy and indulgent dessert that pairs well with the cheesy flavor of Alice Springs Chicken. You can also add some caramel or chocolate sauce for a sweet and decadent finish.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a complete and satisfying meal with Alice Springs Chicken as the star of the show.

Pairing with Sides

Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas for sides that will complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.

Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with Alice Springs Chicken. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Try topping your baked potato with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits for a delicious and filling side.

Broccoli Slaw

If you’re looking for a healthier side dish, broccoli slaw is a great option. It’s low in calories and packed with nutrients. You can make your own broccoli slaw by shredding broccoli stems and mixing them with a dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

Buttered Corn and Green Beans

Buttered corn and green beans are a great side dish for Alice Springs Chicken. They are both easy to prepare and add a pop of color to your plate. To make buttered corn, simply cook corn on the cob and brush it with melted butter. For green beans, sauté them in a pan with garlic and butter for a flavorful side.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish, try a strawberry spinach salad. This salad is made with fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s a great way to balance out the rich flavors of the chicken.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with Alice Springs Chicken. Simply toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

Overall, there are many different sides that pair well with Alice Springs Chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like baked potatoes or something more unique like broccoli slaw, there is a side dish out there that will complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve made your Alice Springs Chicken, you may have some leftover portions. It’s important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your chicken:

Storing

• If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents.
• When you’re ready to eat the frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing it at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.

Reheating

• To reheat Alice Springs Chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• You can also reheat it in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• If you’re reheating frozen chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed before reheating.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your leftover Alice Springs Chicken without worrying about food safety or quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What side dishes pair well with Alice Springs chicken?

Alice Springs chicken is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad. You can also serve it with rice pilaf or roasted sweet potatoes for a more filling meal.

How can I recreate the Outback’s Alice Springs chicken at home?

Recreating Outback’s Alice Springs chicken at home is easier than you might think. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bacon, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses. Cook the chicken and bacon in a skillet, then top with sliced mushrooms and cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!

What are the essential ingredients for making Alice Springs chicken?

The essential ingredients for making Alice Springs chicken include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bacon, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses. You’ll also need a few basic seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

What makes up the seasoning blend for Alice Springs chicken?

The seasoning blend for Alice Springs chicken includes garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the amounts of each seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

How is the sauce for Alice Springs chicken prepared?

The sauce for Alice Springs chicken is a blend of honey mustard and barbecue sauce. To make the sauce, simply whisk together equal parts honey mustard and barbecue sauce until well combined.

What are the nutritional values, such as calorie content, of a typical Alice Springs chicken serving?

The exact nutritional values of a typical Alice Springs chicken serving can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size. However, a typical serving of Alice Springs chicken contains around 400-500 calories, 25-30 grams of fat, and 25-30 grams of protein. It’s also a good source of calcium and iron.

External Links

If you’re interested in making Alice Springs Chicken at home, there are plenty of resources available online to help you get started. Here are a few external links to check out:

• Culinary Hill: This recipe blog provides a step-by-step guide to making Alice Springs Chicken, complete with photos and helpful tips. The marinade includes mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, and the chicken is topped with bacon, mushrooms, and melted cheese. Check out the recipe here.
• House of Nash Eats: This food blog offers a copycat recipe for Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken that includes a tangy honey mustard sauce. The recipe also includes instructions for marinating the chicken and cooking it in a skillet or on the grill. Find the recipe here.
• Favorite Family Recipes: This recipe blog provides a version of Alice Springs Chicken that includes cream cheese in the marinade and a crispy panko breadcrumb topping. The recipe also includes instructions for making a homemade honey mustard sauce. Get the recipe here.
• The Recipe Critic: This recipe blog offers a zesty, cheesy version of Alice Springs Chicken that includes cumin and chili powder in the marinade. The chicken is topped with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Try the recipe here.

These external links are just a few examples of the many resources available online for making Alice Springs Chicken at home. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, there’s a recipe out there that can help you recreate this popular dish from Outback Steakhouse.

More FAQs

How many calories are in the Outback Alice Springs chicken?

The calorie count of Outback Alice Springs chicken can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. However, on average, a serving of Alice Springs chicken contains around 1200 calories. This is due to the combination of ingredients such as chicken, bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce, which are all high in calories. If you are watching your calorie intake, it is recommended to enjoy this dish in moderation or as a treat.

What is chicken on the Barbie?

Chicken on the Barbie is a popular Australian dish that consists of grilled or barbecued chicken. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices for added flavor. This dish is often served with a side of vegetables, such as grilled asparagus or roasted sweet potatoes. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to Alice Springs chicken, chicken on the Barbie is a great option as it is lower in calories and fat.

Can Alice Springs chicken be made with a healthier twist?

Yes, Alice Springs chicken can be made with a healthier twist. You can use skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs, which are lower in fat and calories. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, which is lower in fat and sodium. Additionally, you can use reduced-fat cheese and a lighter honey mustard sauce to reduce the calorie count. By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a healthier version of this delicious dish without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have just learned how to make a delicious Alice Springs Chicken recipe at home. This dish is a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. It is easy to make, and you can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite ingredients.

Remember to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking it to ensure that it is juicy and flavorful. You can use any type of cheese you like, but we recommend using shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for the best results.

If you want to add a little kick to your Alice Springs Chicken, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on top of the chicken before baking or grilling it. This will give your dish a spicy twist that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

In summary, Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that you can enjoy with your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

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