Alice Springs Chicken

Alice Springs Chicken is a savory, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that brings the flavor of a steakhouse right to your kitchen. Inspired by the famous Outback Steakhouse menu item, this recipe features juicy grilled or seared chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and loads of melted cheese — all drizzled with a tangy honey mustard sauce.

It’s a restaurant-quality dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and the slightly sweet, zesty sauce hits every flavor note perfectly. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a dinner party, Alice Springs Chicken is a proven crowd-pleaser that will earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold, layered flavor with bacon, mushrooms, cheese, and honey mustard.
2. A copycat recipe that tastes just like the restaurant — or better!
3. Versatile — great with mashed potatoes, veggies, or a salad.
4. Easy to customize and make ahead.
5. Naturally gluten-free and low-carb-friendly.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Bacon
• Fresh mushrooms (sliced)
• Shredded Colby Jack or cheddar cheese
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and black pepper
• Paprika (optional)
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon juice (optional for tang)
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the honey mustard.
• Low-carb/keto: Use sugar-free honey substitute and ensure all condiments are keto-friendly.
• No mushrooms: Leave them out or replace with sautéed onions or bell peppers.
• Different cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or gouda.
• Grilled version: Grill the chicken for smoky flavor before finishing in the oven.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice (if using) in a bowl. Set aside — this will be used for both marinating and drizzling.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or bowl. Add about half of the honey mustard sauce and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. Drain most of the grease, leaving a bit for the mushrooms.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add a little butter or oil if needed. Sauté mushrooms with garlic until golden brown and tender. Set aside.

Step 5: Sear or Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and discard used marinade. Sear chicken in the skillet (or grill) over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place seared chicken in a baking dish. Top each breast with sautéed mushrooms, bacon, and shredded cheese. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle remaining honey mustard sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pound chicken to even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
• Don’t skip the marinating — it adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and taste.
• Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking before slicing.
• Make the honey mustard sauce ahead for easy meal prep.

How to Serve

Serve Alice Springs Chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a steakhouse-style meal, add a baked potato and steamed broccoli on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked and cooled chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Add fresh sauce when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it looks dry.

FAQs

1. Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the toppings ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.

2. What kind of cheese works best?

Colby Jack is traditional, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda all work well.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs stay juicy and flavorful — adjust cooking time accordingly.

4. Is the honey mustard sauce homemade?

Yes, and it’s super easy — just mix honey, mustard, and mayo.

5. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely — grill the chicken and then add toppings under the broiler to melt the cheese.

6. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer — it should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

7. Can I skip the mushrooms?

Yes — they add flavor but can be omitted or replaced with onions or peppers.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your condiments (mustard, mayo, etc.) are gluten-free.

9. Can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne or hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce for a kick.

10. What can I serve with it?

Mashed potatoes, rice, steamed veggies, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad all pair well.

Conclusion

Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken, smoky bacon, tender mushrooms, gooey cheese, and sweet-tangy honey mustard into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re trying to recreate a favorite restaurant meal or just want a comforting dish with bold flavors, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Print