If you’ve ever been to Outback Steakhouse, chances are you’ve heard of their famous Alice Springs Chicken. This mouthwatering dish combines juicy chicken breasts, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a drizzle of sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy enough for a special occasion but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make Alice Springs Chicken in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal without the hefty price tag. Packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Let’s dive into the details and bring the taste of Outback Steakhouse to your kitchen!
What Is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a dish that perfectly blends comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence. Originally a signature menu item at Outback Steakhouse, this recipe has become a household favorite for many home cooks looking to recreate restaurant-quality meals in their own kitchens.
At its core, Alice Springs Chicken is all about layering bold, satisfying flavors. The dish starts with tender, seasoned chicken breasts that are seared to golden perfection. Then comes the magic: a topping of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a generous layer of melted cheese, all tied together with a rich, sweet, and tangy honey mustard sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
The name itself is inspired by Alice Springs, a town in Australia known for its rugged beauty and rich culture. While the dish doesn’t have direct ties to Australian cuisine, its name adds an adventurous flair, making it even more intriguing.
What makes Alice Springs Chicken so special? It’s a versatile recipe that hits all the right notes. It’s hearty and satisfying, with just the right balance of savory and sweet. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, hosting friends, or treating yourself to something special, this dish always delivers.
Ready to try it for yourself? Keep reading to learn how to whip up this delicious classic in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken
One of the best things about Alice Springs Chicken is how simple the ingredients are—yet when combined, they create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. You likely already have most of these essentials in your kitchen, making it an easy recipe to whip up without a lot of fuss. Let’s take a look at the star ingredients that bring this dish to life:
- Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish, and for good reason! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice because they’re lean, cook quickly, and absorb all the delicious flavors around them. For a juicy, tender result, it’s important to season the chicken well and sear it before adding the toppings.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon is a key component that adds savory crunch and a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey mustard. You can’t go wrong with thick-cut bacon for this recipe—it holds up well during cooking and adds extra richness.
- Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese: These two cheeses are the ultimate combo when it comes to melting. Cheddar offers a sharp, tangy taste, while Monterey Jack brings a mild creaminess that melts beautifully. Together, they create that gooey, cheesy goodness that makes Alice Springs Chicken irresistible.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: This is the ingredient that ties everything together. The sweet and tangy combination of honey and mustard perfectly balances out the richness of the chicken and bacon. You can buy a pre-made honey mustard, or, for a personal touch, make your own with just a few ingredients: mustard, honey, and a splash of vinegar or mayo.
- Mushrooms (Optional): For those who love a bit of earthy flavor, sautéed mushrooms add a wonderful depth to the dish. Their soft texture pairs well with the crispy bacon and creamy cheese, giving you an extra layer of flavor that makes this dish feel gourmet. If you’re not a mushroom fan, feel free to skip them!
- Olive Oil or Butter: Used for searing the chicken and cooking the bacon, olive oil or butter ensures that everything cooks to golden perfection. You can even use a little bit of both for added flavor.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making Alice Springs Chicken the deliciously comforting dish it’s known for. The best part? They’re all easy to find and affordable, so you can make this restaurant favorite without breaking the bank. Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on to the next step!
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken in 30 Minutes
Making Alice Springs Chicken at home is easier than you might think, and the best part? It only takes 30 minutes! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, quick, and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Let’s break it down step by step so you can get this comforting dish on the table in no time.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by getting your chicken breasts ready. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning if you like.
Next, heat a drizzle of olive oil or melt some butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is nice and hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden, crispy crust and are cooked through (you can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F). Set the chicken aside while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
2. Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, cook your bacon strips over medium heat until they’re crispy and golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Don’t toss the bacon grease! It adds flavor, and you can sauté the mushrooms in it for an extra savory kick.
If you’re using mushrooms, now’s the time to sauté them. Slice them thinly and add them to the skillet, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and browned. If you prefer, you can skip this step and go straight to assembling the chicken, but the mushrooms add a nice earthy taste that really elevates the dish.
3. Assemble the Dish
Now comes the fun part: assembling everything! Take each seared chicken breast and spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce on top. Don’t be shy here—this is where the flavor really shines. Crumble the crispy bacon and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. Then, add your sautéed mushrooms (if using) and finish by topping the whole thing with a big handful of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
4. Bake or Broil
Once your chicken is fully loaded, it’s time to get that cheese nice and melted. If you have an oven-safe skillet, simply transfer it to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Alternatively, you can broil it for a minute or two if you prefer a bit of a crispy, caramelized top.
5. Final Touches
Once your Alice Springs Chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a minute or two. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with a little chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and you’re ready to enjoy!
That’s it! In just 30 minutes, you’ve got a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and that irresistible honey mustard sauce makes this recipe a keeper.
Feeling hungry? Grab your ingredients and start cooking—you’ll be savoring every bite of this easy, flavorful dish in no time!
Tips for the Best Alice Springs Chicken
While the recipe for Alice Springs Chicken is simple and straightforward, a few extra tips can take this dish from delicious to extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special dinner, these helpful hints will ensure your chicken comes out perfectly every time.
1. Get the Chicken Just Right
The key to perfectly cooked Alice Springs Chicken is to ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and tender. One of the best ways to do this is by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the thinner parts from drying out. Simply place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they’re an even thickness. If you don’t have a mallet, the bottom of a heavy pan works just as well!
Additionally, don’t skip the searing step. Searing the chicken on both sides in a hot pan creates a crispy, golden crust that locks in moisture, leaving you with juicy, flavorful chicken. It’s worth taking the time to do this, as it helps create the perfect texture.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer
It’s easy to overcook chicken, and when that happens, the result can be dry, tough meat. To avoid this, invest in a meat thermometer. Cooking chicken breasts to 165°F (74°C) ensures they’re cooked through without being overdone. It’s a simple tool that guarantees consistent, perfectly cooked chicken every time!
3. Don’t Skimp on the Bacon
Bacon is one of the standout ingredients in Alice Springs Chicken, so make sure to use high-quality bacon. Thick-cut bacon works best because it holds up better during cooking and adds more texture and flavor. If you love bacon, feel free to use extra—more bacon means more flavor, and who can say no to that? For an extra indulgent touch, consider using smoked bacon, which adds even more depth to the dish.
4. Customize the Honey Mustard Sauce
The honey mustard sauce is what brings everything together, so don’t be afraid to get creative with it! While store-bought honey mustard works great, making your own gives you complete control over the flavor. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, a little extra honey can make it just right.
5. Try Adding More Veggies
While mushrooms are a classic topping, feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add more texture, making your Alice Springs Chicken even more satisfying.
6. Make It Ahead of Time
Alice Springs Chicken is great for meal prepping! If you’re short on time during the week, you can prepare the chicken in advance. Season and sear the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble the dish and bake it. This is a fantastic way to get a hearty, flavorful meal on the table in no time, even on busy nights.
7. Serve It with a Side
While Alice Springs Chicken is hearty on its own, pairing it with a side dish can make for a well-rounded meal. Some great options include roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or mashed potatoes. You could even serve it with a side of sweet potato fries or rice pilaf for a more substantial meal. The rich flavors of the chicken pair perfectly with these simple, comforting sides.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be able to make Alice Springs Chicken that’s tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious every time. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these little tricks will help you master this recipe and keep everyone coming back for seconds!
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken
Here are some commonly asked questions about Alice Springs Chicken, from its unique name to what to pair it with for the perfect meal. Let’s dive in!
Why Is Alice Springs So Famous?
Alice Springs is a town located in the heart of the Australian Outback, and it’s known for its stunning desert landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and fascinating wildlife. The town serves as a gateway for tourists exploring the rugged terrain of central Australia. While Alice Springs itself is famous for its natural beauty and historical significance, the name also became widely recognized thanks to the popular Alice Springs Chicken dish, which was created at Outback Steakhouse in the United States. So while the chicken dish doesn’t have roots in the actual town, the name brings a little piece of Australia to your plate!
Is Alice Springs Chicken Healthy?
While Alice Springs Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional profile. The dish includes protein-packed chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and honey mustard sauce. While these ingredients bring loads of flavor, they also contribute to the dish being a bit on the heavier side, especially with the bacon and cheese.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can make some simple tweaks. Opt for low-fat cheese, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, or skip the cheese altogether. You can also pair the chicken with light sides like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables instead of heavier carb-rich sides. While it’s not the lightest option, Alice Springs Chicken can certainly be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Who Serves Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is most famously served at Outback Steakhouse, where it was originally introduced as a signature dish. Outback is known for its hearty, flavorful meals inspired by Australian cuisine (though the dishes are more Americanized). While Outback Steakhouse is where the dish gained its widespread popularity, you can now find Alice Springs Chicken at various casual dining restaurants, or you can easily recreate it at home, as we’ve shown in this recipe!
What to Eat with Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a hearty, flavorful dish, so you’ll want to pair it with sides that complement its richness. Some great side options include:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers add a nice balance to the dish and bring a touch of freshness.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the chicken.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken and provide a fresh contrast.
- Rice Pilaf: If you’re craving something a bit more filling, rice pilaf with herbs and a bit of lemon adds a fragrant, flavorful side.
These sides not only complement the bold flavors of the Alice Springs Chicken but also help balance the meal for a complete dining experience.
Bringing It All Together
Alice Springs Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance with its juicy, golden-seared chicken, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and that irresistible honey mustard sauce. The best part? You don’t need a plane ticket to the Outback or even a reservation at a restaurant to enjoy it. With this recipe, you’re the chef, and your kitchen becomes the ultimate destination for comfort food done right.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner, a dinner party with friends, or just treating yourself after a long day, Alice Springs Chicken fits the bill. The rich, hearty flavors pair beautifully with a range of sides, making it easy to customize to your liking. Plus, the satisfaction of saying, “Yes, I made this,” when everyone at the table raves about it? That’s the cherry on top.
So why not give it a try? Roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and bring this Outback-inspired favorite to life in your own home. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it’s guaranteed to earn you a spot in the “best cook ever” hall of fame.
Life’s too short for boring chicken—make it Alice Springs Chicken instead. Bon appétit, and happy cooking!
