What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful, comforting dish that originated as a signature menu item at the popular Outback Steakhouse. This hearty entrée features tender, juicy grilled chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a generous layer of melted cheese. The combination of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors makes it an all-time favorite for many.

Alice Springs Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 8 slices bacon
- 8 oz mushrooms sliced
- 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack or Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup honey mustard sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.2 tablespoons olive oil
- While chicken is cooking, cook bacon in a separate pan until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.8 slices bacon
- In the same pan used for bacon, sauté mushrooms until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).8 oz mushrooms sliced
- Transfer seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
- Spread each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of honey mustard sauce.1/2 cup honey mustard sauce
- Layer each chicken breast with 2 slices of crispy bacon.
- Top each chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each chicken breast, using about 1/2 cup per piece.2 cups shredded Colby-Jack or Cheddar cheese
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.Fresh parsley for garnish
Notes
- For best results, use chicken breasts of similar size or pound them to even thickness.
- Make your own honey mustard sauce by combining 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup mayonnaise.
- To make ahead: Prepare the components (cook bacon, sauté mushrooms) up to a day in advance.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheese.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- If cheese browns too quickly, tent with foil during baking.
Nutrition Facts and Serving Suggestions
- Serving Size:
- One chicken breast with toppings.
- Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Pairings:
- Best served with sautéed green beans, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread.

Creative Variations and International Twists
Having experimented extensively with this recipe, I’ve discovered that Alice Springs Chicken adapts beautifully to various culinary influences. For instance, giving it an Italian flair by substituting the cheddar with fresh mozzarella and provolone creates an entirely new experience. Furthermore, you might consider adding a layer of sautéed bell peppers alongside the mushrooms, which not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces a delightful sweetness to complement the honey mustard sauce.
One particularly successful variation I’ve developed involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of honey mustard and Greek yogurt for at least 4 hours before cooking.
Moreover, for those seeking a lower-carb option, consider wrapping the chicken in prosciutto instead of bacon – it crisps up beautifully while adding a sophisticated touch to this beloved comfort dish.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Over the years of making Alice Springs Chicken, I’ve tackled common issues. Uneven chicken breasts can cause inconsistent cooking, so I recommend butterflying or pounding them to 1/2-inch thickness. If the cheese browns too fast before the chicken is fully cooked, tent it with foil to ensure even cooking.
A key lesson I learned is to pre-cook mushrooms to release moisture; otherwise, they can make the dish watery and ruin the crispy bacon and golden cheese. Finally, let the dish rest for 5-7 minutes to redistribute juices and slightly thicken the honey mustard sauce for the perfect bite.
Keywords: Alice Springs Chicken recipe, honey mustard chicken, Outback copycat recipe, cheesy bacon chicken
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