“Irresistible Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: A Flavor Explosion That Will Delight Your Taste Buds!”
Table of Contents
Summary:
If you’re craving a delicious, hearty, and flavor-packed chicken dish, the Alice Springs Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try! Originating from the Outback Steakhouse chain, this mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken breasts, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a rich honey mustard sauce to create a satisfying and unforgettable meal. Perfect for a family dinner, weekend gathering, or even a special occasion, this recipe will elevate your chicken game with minimal effort. Whether you are cooking it in the oven or on the grill, our detailed step-by-step guide will help you achieve the perfect Alice Springs Chicken every time!
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
4
Calories:
Approximately 650-700 calories per serving (varies based on specific ingredients used)
Courses:
Main Course, Dinner
Cuisines:
American, Australian (Inspired)
Equipment:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Large skillet (for searing)
- Oven-safe baking dish (if baking)
- Grill (optional)
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Basting brush
- Small mixing bowl (for sauce)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for grilling)
Ingredients: for Springs Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon (preferably smoked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works well for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp, your preference)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup green onions (chopped, optional)
Instructions: for Springs Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Prep the chicken breasts by placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring the chicken cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder on both sides. These spices will infuse the chicken with deep flavors and enhance its natural taste.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon strips. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally to avoid burning. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
- After the bacon has cooled, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The goal is not to cook the chicken all the way through at this stage, just to achieve a nice sear.
- If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until grill marks form, but the chicken is not fully cooked through. We’ll finish cooking the chicken in the oven, which will give it the perfect, tender texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well-combined. The balance of sweetness from the honey, tanginess from the mustard, and creaminess from the mayonnaise creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble the Alice Springs Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
- Place the partially cooked chicken breasts into an oven-safe baking dish, or if you’re grilling, continue with the next step directly on the grill.
- Brush each chicken breast generously with the honey mustard sauce, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces over each piece of chicken, and then top each one with a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Optional (for extra flavor): Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms on top of the cheese and bacon mixture. Mushrooms pair perfectly with the smoky flavor of the bacon and enhance the richness of the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
- Place the baking dish with the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re grilling, you can cover the chicken with foil and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese has melted.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Once rested, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and green onions for a burst of freshness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Notes:
- Substitute with Chicken Thighs: For a richer, juicier version, you can swap the chicken breasts with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to take longer to cook.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the chicken before baking.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling, this recipe works beautifully on the barbecue. Just make sure to grill the chicken over medium heat, and cover it with foil once you add the toppings to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, try using portobello mushrooms as the base. Grill or sauté them to mimic the texture of chicken and top with the same delicious honey mustard sauce and cheese.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken ahead of time. Season and cook the bacon, then assemble the chicken with sauce, bacon, and cheese. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours and bake when ready to serve. It’s a great option for meal prepping!
Conclusion:
Alice Springs Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers all the flavors you crave in a single dish: smoky bacon, creamy cheese, juicy chicken, and a tangy honey mustard sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, cooking for a special occasion, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe will satisfy every palate. With easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of customizable options, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home in no time.
For more amazing chicken recipes that are sure to impress, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Chicken Dinners.
Elevate your meal with this irresistible Alice Springs Chicken and enjoy a flavor-packed experience with every bite. Happy cooking!
This detailed recipe has been designed to help you create the perfect Alice Springs Chicken at home with easy-to-follow steps, tips, and variations to suit any taste. Enjoy!
“Irresistible Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: A Flavor Explosion That Will Delight Your Taste Buds!”
Equipment
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Large skillet (for searing)
- Oven-safe baking dish (if baking)
- Grill (optional)
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Basting brush
- Small mixing bowl (for sauce)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for grilling)
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon preferably smoked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika works well for added flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme optional, for garnish
- For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for tanginess
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese mild or sharp, your preference
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese or mozzarella for a creamier texture
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms optional, for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Prep the chicken breasts by placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring the chicken cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder on both sides. These spices will infuse the chicken with deep flavors and enhance its natural taste.
- Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon strips. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally to avoid burning. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
- After the bacon has cooled, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later use.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The goal is not to cook the chicken all the way through at this stage, just to achieve a nice sear.
- If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until grill marks form, but the chicken is not fully cooked through. We’ll finish cooking the chicken in the oven, which will give it the perfect, tender texture.
- Step 4: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well-combined. The balance of sweetness from the honey, tanginess from the mustard, and creaminess from the mayonnaise creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Step 5: Assemble the Alice Springs Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
- Place the partially cooked chicken breasts into an oven-safe baking dish, or if you’re grilling, continue with the next step directly on the grill.
- Brush each chicken breast generously with the honey mustard sauce, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces over each piece of chicken, and then top each one with a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Optional (for extra flavor): Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms on top of the cheese and bacon mixture. Mushrooms pair perfectly with the smoky flavor of the bacon and enhance the richness of the dish.
- Step 6: Bake the Chicken
- Place the baking dish with the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re grilling, you can cover the chicken with foil and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese has melted.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Once rested, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and green onions for a burst of freshness.