Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite dish from Outback Steakhouse, a well-known Australian-themed restaurant chain. This recipe lets you make this signature dish at home. It has seasoned chicken breasts, a tasty honey-mustard sauce, and toppings like bacon, cheese, and mushrooms.
This dish is a hit with everyone, bringing the taste of Australian cuisine right to your table.
Key Takeaways
- Alice Springs Chicken is a beloved dish from Outback Steakhouse, an Australian-themed restaurant chain.
- The recipe features seasoned chicken breasts topped with a honey-mustard sauce, bacon, cheese, and optional mushrooms.
- This copycat recipe allows you to recreate the restaurant favorite at home in under 30 minutes.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours ensures maximum flavor absorption.
- The dish is named after the town of Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory, reflecting the restaurant’s Australian heritage.
What Makes Alice Springs Chicken Special
Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite dish from Outback Steakhouse. It’s loved for its mix of flavors and textures. The pounded chicken breast, mustard sauce chicken, and pan-fried chicken all come together for a memorable meal.
Origin of the Dish
The Alice Springs Chicken started at Outback Steakhouse. It’s named after Alice Springs in Australia. This town is known for its rugged beauty and adventurous spirit.
Key Ingredients Overview
- Pounded chicken breast – The chicken is pounded thin for even cooking and tenderness.
- Honey mustard sauce – A mix of honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise for a sweet and tangy taste.
- Bacon – Adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Cheese – Usually Colby Jack, which melts well over the chicken.
- Mushrooms – Optional, adding an earthy, umami flavor.
Why This Recipe is Popular
The Alice Springs Chicken is a hit for many reasons. The mustard sauce chicken and honey mustard chicken offer a unique taste. Bacon, cheese, and mushrooms add richness and depth. It’s also easy to make and can be customized, making it a favorite among many.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
To make the famous local delicacy, Alice Springs Chicken (also known as the Outback Copycat), you need a few key things. The main ingredient is the grilled chicken recipe. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the base.
The dish’s flavors come from Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and crispy bacon. Mushrooms and Colby Jack cheese are also important. You’ll need a non-stick frying pan, a 9×13 baking dish, and an oven-proof skillet to cook it.
Some recipes suggest adding Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning or a cajun spice blend. This adds more flavor to the Alice Springs Chicken. With these ingredients and tools, you can make this local delicacy at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 4-6 breasts |
| Dijon Mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 6-8 slices |
| Colby Jack Cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 8 oz |
Equipment Needed:
- Non-stick Frying Pan
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Oven-proof Skillet
Signature Honey Mustard Sauce
The honey mustard sauce is the heart of the Alice Springs Chicken. It’s not just a marinade but also a tasty dipping sauce. It brings together the best of Australian flavors, making the dish unforgettable.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Mixing Instructions
Start by mixing Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth and well mixed. This sauce is perfect for marinating the chicken and as a dip.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The cold keeps the flavors fresh. For a spicy touch, try using hot honey instead of regular honey. It adds a unique kick to the dish.
Alice Springs Chicken Preparation Techniques
To make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, focus on how you prepare the chicken. This ensures it cooks evenly and stays tender. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Pound the chicken breasts to 3/4-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly, keeping the edges moist and the center juicy.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika or Cajun spice mix. This adds a rich flavor to the meat.
- Marinate the chicken in baking soda, vinegar, and salt for 20 minutes. This makes the meat tender and juicy.
- Marinate in honey mustard sauce for 30 minutes to overnight. This lets the flavors soak into the meat, enhancing the dish.
By carefully preparing your Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll create a delicious territory dish. It will have the right mix of tenderness and flavor.
“The secret to a truly mouthwatering Alice Springs Chicken lies in the way you prepare the chicken itself. It’s all about that perfect balance of seasoning, tenderizing, and marinating.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Making the famous Alice Springs Chicken is a fun journey. It mixes classic gourmet bbq and aussie classics tastes. Let’s explore how to make this tasty dish.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning the 2 lbs of chicken breasts with your favorite spices and herbs. Make sure the chicken is well-coated for great flavor. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat.
Put the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot oil. Cook them until they get a golden-brown crust. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side.
Cooking Methods
After searing the chicken, move the skillet to a 375°F oven. Keep cooking for 10-15 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender. It’s a mix of pan-searing and oven-roasting.
Assembly Instructions
While the chicken bakes, cook 8 oz of baby bella mushrooms and 1/2 a sweet onion in the skillet. Use the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Cook until the veggies are soft and caramelized, then stop the heat.
When the chicken is done, take it out of the oven. Top each breast with 6 tbsp of honey mustard sauce. Add the sautéed mushrooms and onions, 1/2 cup of crumbled crispy bacon, and 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese.
Put the dish back in the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble.
This detailed guide makes sure the Alice Springs Chicken turns out perfectly. It has a perfect mix of flavors and textures that will please your taste buds.
Alice Springs Chicken Toppings
The Alice Springs Chicken is a highlight of Australian outback cuisine. Its success comes from the variety of tasty toppings that go well with the chicken. These toppings make the dish truly special.
The core of the Alice Springs Chicken are its classic toppings. These include:
- Crispy bacon pieces, adding a savory crunch to the dish
- Melted Colby Jack cheese, oozing over the chicken for a rich, creamy texture
- Sautéed mushrooms, which lend an earthy, umami flavor to the mix
Some recipes also add sautéed onions for more flavor. The dish is finished with a honey mustard sauce. This sauce brings all the flavors together, giving the chicken its unique taste.
The dish is often topped with fresh parsley or green onions. This adds color and a fresh taste to the meal.
The mix of toppings makes the Alice Springs Chicken a favorite in outback cuisine. Each topping works well with the others, creating a delicious meal. This dish is loved by many in Australia and around the world.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, pay close attention to a few important details. First, make sure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents it from becoming dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness.
For the best results, melt the cheese fully before serving. This step is crucial for the dish’s texture and flavor.
Temperature Guidelines
To keep your chicken juicy and full of flavor, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a digital meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding bone. This ensures the chicken is cooked through without becoming dry or rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to a dry, tough texture.
- Failing to fully melt the cheese, resulting in an uneven, incomplete topping.
- Skipping the step of making the signature honey mustard sauce, which provides the dish’s signature flavor.
Make-Ahead Options
For convenience and enhanced flavor, prepare parts of the Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time. The honey mustard sauce can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Also, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to fully develop.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality mustard sauce chicken that will delight your family and friends. With a little attention to detail, you can achieve the perfect restaurant favorite dish right at home.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
No Outback Steakhouse-inspired meal is complete without the perfect accompaniments. Serve your honey mustard chicken with the signature honey mustard sauce on the side. This lets your guests adjust the flavor to their taste.
For a true aussie classics feel, pair the Alice Springs Chicken with classic sides. Try steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The creamy chicken goes well with these simple yet tasty options.
- Steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or mixed vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Crisp garden salad with your choice of dressing
To bring the Outback Steakhouse vibe home, serve the honey mustard chicken with their signature bread rolls or broccoli and cheese. These classic sides add to the meal, making it more complete.
For a touch of elegance, garnish the Alice Springs Chicken with fresh herbs like parsley. This simple step boosts the dish’s look and taste.
“The key to a memorable honey mustard chicken dish is finding the right balance of flavors and textures. By adding the right sides, you can make the meal even better and bring the Outback Steakhouse experience right to your table.”
Conclusion
The Alice Springs Chicken recipe from Outback Steakhouse is a true culinary gem. It has won the hearts and taste buds of many for years. This copycat version lets you bring Outback’s signature dish into your home kitchen.
With juicy chicken, crisp bacon, melted cheeses, and honey mustard sauce, it’s a hit. It’s a great way to make any meal special and impress your loved ones.
Looking for a comforting dinner or want to recreate Outback’s dining experience? The Alice Springs Chicken is perfect. Follow the instructions and tips to master this dish and enjoy it often.
So, fire up your oven and get ready to make Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken. It’s sure to become a family favorite, with everyone wanting more.
PrintAlice Springs Chicken Recipe
Bring the taste of Outback Steakhouse home with this Alice Springs Chicken recipe! Enjoy tender chicken in a honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, melted Colby Jack cheese, and optional sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for family dinners, this easy dish is irresistible, quick to make, and sure to please everyone!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Australian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 6–8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika or Cajun spice mix
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to 3/4-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika or Cajun spice mix.
- Optional: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and salt for 20 minutes to tenderize.
- Marinate the chicken in honey mustard sauce for 30 minutes to overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook mushrooms and onions in the same skillet until soft and caramelized.
- Top each chicken breast with honey mustard sauce, sautéed mushrooms and onions, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
- Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
FAQ
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a dish inspired by Outback Steakhouse. It has seasoned chicken breasts, honey mustard sauce, bacon, cheese, and mushrooms.
Where does the name “Alice Springs Chicken” come from?
The name comes from Alice Springs, a town in Australia’s Northern Territory. It reflects Outback Steakhouse’s Australian theme.
What are the key ingredients in Alice Springs Chicken?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and mushrooms.
What makes this recipe so popular?
Its popularity comes from a mix of flavors and textures. The honey mustard sauce adds sweetness and tanginess. Bacon and cheese add richness.
How do you make the signature honey mustard sauce?
The sauce is made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
What is the best way to prepare the chicken?
Pound the chicken breasts to 3/4-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or Cajun spice. Marinate in baking soda, vinegar, and salt if desired.
How do you assemble and cook the Alice Springs Chicken?
Brown the chicken in a skillet. Top with honey mustard sauce, sautéed veggies, bacon, and cheese. Bake until the chicken is 165°F.
What are the traditional toppings for Alice Springs Chicken?
Traditional toppings include crispy bacon, melted Colby Jack cheese, and sautéed mushrooms. Some add sautéed onions too.
What are some tips for achieving perfect results with Alice Springs Chicken?
Ensure the chicken is 165°F. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist. Make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time. Use an oven-safe skillet for easy transfer.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Alice Springs Chicken?
Good sides are steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. For an Outback Steakhouse feel, try their bread rolls or broccoli and cheese side.