Best Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe (Copycat) | Easy 30-Min Dinner

Named after a town in Northern Australia, Alice Springs Chicken has become one of Outback Steakhouse’s most beloved menu items. While steaks may be the restaurant’s claim to fame, this hearty chicken dish stands out with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

This mouthwatering creation features tender chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, topped with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and a generous blanket of melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. We’ll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen, bringing that signature Outback taste home. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality results that’ll have your family reaching for seconds.

Key Takeaways

• Alice Springs Chicken is Outback Steakhouse’s signature dish featuring chicken breasts topped with honey mustard sauce, mushrooms, bacon, and melted cheese.
• The key to authentic flavor is marinating the chicken in homemade honey mustard sauce (made with mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice) for at least 30 minutes.
• For best results, use high-quality ingredients like fresh mushrooms, premium bacon, and freshly shredded cheese blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar.
• The dish requires a two-step cooking process: first searing the marinated chicken, then baking at 400°F until the cheese melts and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour, including 30 minutes marination and 25-30 minutes baking time.

Discovering the Origins of the Famous Alice Springs Chicken

Named after the iconic town in Australia’s Northern Territory Alice Springs Chicken originated at Outback Steakhouse as a signature dish that combines grilled chicken breasts with honey mustard sauce sautéed mushrooms bacon and melted cheese.

How the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Became a Beloved Copycat Recipe

Over time this Outback Steakhouse favorite has gained immense popularity leading home cooks to recreate their own versions. The dish’s success lies in its perfect combination of flavors: tender chicken marinated in honey mustard sauce topped with sautéed mushrooms crispy bacon and a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. The signature honey mustard sauce which serves as both marinade and topping has become particularly notable for its balance of sweet and tangy notes.

• Marinating chicken breasts in honey mustard sauce
• Cooking bacon until perfectly crispy
• Sautéing fresh mushrooms
• Using a specific cheese blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar
• Perfecting the honey mustard sauce ratios of mayo Dijon mustard and honey

Original Components	Fan-Favorite Additions
Honey Mustard Sauce	Additional herbs
Mushrooms	Different cheese blends
Bacon	Various side dishes
Monterey Jack & Cheddar	Sauce variations

Gathering Your Recipe Ingredients for the Perfect Outback Copycat Dish

To recreate the iconic Alice Springs Chicken at home we need to gather specific ingredients that capture the authentic Outback Steakhouse flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need organized by component.

Selecting Quality Bacon and Chicken for Authentic Results

For the base of this copycat recipe you’ll need:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts even in size
• 6-8 slices of high-quality crispy bacon
• 2 cups fresh sliced mushrooms
• 1 medium onion sliced
• 1-2 cups freshly shredded cheese (blend of Monterey Jack & Cheddar)

For best results choose:

• Chicken breasts that are uniform in thickness
• Premium-cut bacon that crisps well
• Fresh white mushrooms rather than pre-sliced
• Block cheese to shred yourself for better melting

Crafting the Ideal Honey Mustard Sauce and Marinade

The signature honey mustard sauce requires:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2-3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• Optional: splash of white wine vinegar for tang

• Use real mayonnaise not light versions
• Select pure honey for authentic sweetness
• Choose smooth Dijon mustard for proper texture
• Blend ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor

Component	Quantity	Notes
Mayonnaise	¾ cup	Full-fat recommended
Dijon Mustard	2-3 tbsp	Smooth variety
Honey	¼ cup	Pure honey preferred
Cheese Blend	1-2 cups	Freshly shredded
Bacon	6-8 slices	Crispy cooked

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken at Home Step-by-Step

Transform your kitchen into Outback Steakhouse with our detailed guide to creating the perfect Alice Springs Chicken. We’ll walk you through each stage of preparation to ensure restaurant-quality results.

Preparing the Marinade to Recreate the Outback Flavor

1. Combine 1/2 cup Dijon mustard 1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup mayo and 2 teaspoons lemon juice in a bowl
2. Whisk together until smooth and well combined
3. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag
4. Pour half the marinade over the chicken and reserve the remaining for later use
5. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Remove marinated chicken from the bag and discard used marinade
3. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat
4. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown
5. Transfer chicken to a 9×13 baking dish
6. Top each chicken breast with:

• Reserved honey mustard sauce
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Sautéed mushrooms
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes until:

• Cheese is melted and bubbly
• Chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature

1. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving

Cooking Stage	Time	Temperature
Marination	1-12 hours	40°F (refrigerated)
Initial Pan Sear	12-14 minutes	Medium-high heat
Final Bake	15-20 minutes	400°F
Internal Temperature	–	165°F

Tips for Elevating Your Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Transform your homemade Alice Springs Chicken from good to exceptional with these professional tips and techniques. These recommendations will help you achieve that authentic Outback Steakhouse flavor while adding your personal touch.

Enhancing Your Copycat Recipe with the Latest Recipes and Techniques

• Use butterflied chicken breasts for even cooking and better marinade absorption
• Cook bacon until extra crispy then crumble it finely for better distribution
• Sauté mushrooms in bacon grease to enhance their flavor
• Shred cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded varieties for superior melting
• Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature
• Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a better golden crust
• Layer ingredients in order: chicken honey mustard sauce mushrooms bacon then cheese

Adjusting the Honey Mustard and Seasonings for Your Personal Taste

• Experiment with different mustard combinations (Dijon stoneground whole grain)
• Adjust honey-to-mustard ratio for preferred sweetness level
• Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten flavors
• Include minced garlic or garlic powder for depth
• Try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
• Season mushrooms with black pepper while sautéing
• Mix Colby Jack with Monterey Jack cheese for enhanced flavor
• Double the honey mustard sauce recipe for extra dipping

Ingredient	Standard Recipe	Sweeter Version	Tangier Version
Honey	1/4 cup	1/3 cup	2 tablespoons
Dijon Mustard	2 tablespoons	2 tablespoons	3 tablespoons
Mayonnaise	1/2 cup	1/2 cup	1/2 cup
Lemon Juice	1 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon	2 teaspoons

Serving and Presenting Your Outback Steakhouse-Inspired Meal

Now we’ve shared all the secrets to recreating this beloved Outback Steakhouse classic at home. With our detailed recipe and expert tips you’ll be able to make Alice Springs Chicken that rivals the restaurant version.

We’re confident that once you try this recipe you’ll add it to your regular dinner rotation. The combination of tender chicken honey mustard sauce crispy bacon mushrooms and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Remember to serve your Alice Springs Chicken while it’s hot and bubbling. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a baked potato will complete your restaurant-style experience right in your own kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken is a popular Outback Steakhouse dish featuring grilled chicken breast topped with honey mustard sauce, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. It’s named after the Australian town of Alice Springs.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour in the honey mustard sauce for best results. You can marinate for up to 4 hours, but avoid longer periods as the acid in the marinade can start breaking down the meat’s texture.

What’s in the honey mustard sauce?

The honey mustard sauce combines mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Use real mayonnaise and pure honey for the best flavor. The sauce serves both as a marinade and a topping for the finished dish.

What temperature should the chicken be cooked to?

Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and prevent overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.

Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep components ahead of time. Cook bacon and sauté mushrooms in advance, and make the honey mustard sauce up to 3 days before. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

What sides go well with Alice Springs Chicken?

Traditional sides include steamed vegetables, baked potato, or rice pilaf. The dish also pairs well with fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget extra honey mustard sauce for dipping.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the chicken rubbery.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, while the traditional recipe calls for Monterey Jack and Cheddar, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Colby, Provolone, or Mozzarella. Just ensure you use block cheese for better melting.

Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe