Description
This recipe recreates the popular Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken. It features juicy grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and a generous blend of melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, all atop a flavorful honey mustard marinade. It’s a comforting and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
Preparation
Make the marinade
Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, vegetable oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
Marinate the chicken
Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Step 3: Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for a more intense flavor.
Cook the bacon
Step 4: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
Step 5: Drain the bacon on paper towels, then crumble and set aside.
Sauté the mushrooms
Step 6: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 7: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Grill or sear the chicken
Step 8: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 9: Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Assemble the dish
Step 10: Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish.
Step 11: Spoon the sautéed mushrooms over each chicken breast.
Step 12: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the mushrooms.
Step 13: Top with a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses.
Melt and bubble
Step 14: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 15: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish and serve
Step 16: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Step 17: Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as fries, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, and mushrooms with the sweetness of honey mustard. The melted cheese topping adds a comforting and satisfying element. It’s also relatively easy to make at home, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
- French fries
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, green beans, asparagus)
- Rice pilaf
- Side salad
Tips
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use high-quality bacon for the best taste.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will dry out.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 50-60g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion
This homemade version of Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its combination of savory and sweet flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook than breasts. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, even overnight, in the refrigerator. You can also cook the bacon and sauté the mushrooms ahead of time. When ready to bake, assemble the dish and bake as directed.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, Swiss, or even a smoky Gouda.
Q4: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute with yellow mustard, but the flavor will be slightly different. You may want to add a pinch of dry mustard to enhance the flavor.
Q5: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes, grilling the chicken is a great option. Grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
