Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Outback Steakhouse right into your kitchen. This recipe offers a perfect blend of tender chicken breasts topped with a rich honey-mustard sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its mouthwatering taste and simple preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey mustard, bacon, and cheese creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to cook in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal suitable for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is perfect for gatherings, ensuring your guests leave happy and satisfied.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add mushrooms or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Alice Springs Chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken while keeping all the flavors contained.
- Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing bacon and searing chicken before baking, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauces or marinades quickly without making a mess.
- Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly without overcooking, guaranteeing juicy results.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts (horizontally sliced in half)
- 6 slices of cooked bacon
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup mayo
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp stone-ground mustard
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
Step 3: Sear Chicken Breasts
- In the same skillet with remaining bacon fat, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked.
Step 4: Mix Honey-Mustard Sauce
In a mixing bowl:
Combine mayo, honey, and stone-ground mustard until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Place seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Spread honey-mustard sauce generously on each piece.
- Top with crumbled bacon and sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese over everything.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Serve
Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Alice Springs Chicken with sides of your choice!
How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
Serving Alice Springs Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and pairing it with the right sides. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that will make your meal truly special.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh salad: Serve the chicken sliced on top of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Spinach salad: Pair it with sautéed spinach for a nutritious touch.
With a Side of Grains
- Rice pilaf: The fluffy grains complement the savory chicken perfectly.
- Quinoa: This nutty grain adds texture and is packed with protein.
As a Sandwich
- Toasted bun: Slice the chicken and serve it on a toasted bun with extra honey mustard for a delicious sandwich.
- Wrap it up: Use tortillas to create a tasty wrap, adding lettuce and tomatoes.
Accompanied by Dipping Sauces
- Extra honey mustard: Provide additional sauce for dipping to enhance flavor.
- Barbecue sauce: A smoky twist that pairs well with the chicken’s sweetness.
How to Perfect Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
To ensure your Alice Springs Chicken turns out just like the restaurant version, follow these expert tips. These suggestions will help you achieve maximum flavor and presentation for your dish.
- Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken sit in honey mustard for at least an hour enhances flavor absorption.
- Cook bacon until crispy: Crisp bacon adds texture and depth; be sure not to skip this step!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and quality cheese make a big difference in taste.
- Monitor cooking time: Overcooking can dry out the chicken; aim for juicy, tender breasts by using a meat thermometer.
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
- Garnish wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add color and freshness when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
Pairing side dishes with your Alice Springs Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful crunch and sweetness alongside the savory chicken.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw balances out the richness of the dish.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: These provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors while being nutritious.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a favorite side that kids and adults love alike.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing complements the main dish well.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked veggies add color, texture, and nutrients to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will make your Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
- Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow time for the honey mustard sauce to soak in before cooking.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using lower-quality ingredients can affect taste. Choose fresh, high-quality bacon and cheese for the best results.
- Not prepping ingredients ahead: Failing to prep your ingredients can extend cooking time. Have everything ready to go before you start cooking.
- Serving without sides: Serving this dish alone can be unbalanced. Pair it with veggies or a salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water, cover, and heat until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat), you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.
What is Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)?
Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) is a delicious dish featuring chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, topped with bacon, cheese, and optional mushrooms.
Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store separately until ready to cook for optimal freshness.
What sides pair well with Alice Springs Chicken?
This dish goes well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to balance flavors.
How do I customize my Alice Springs Chicken?
You can add different toppings like avocado or bell peppers, or use different cheeses according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) is a delightful recipe that combines comfort and flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings or sides, making it suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy meal that everyone will love!
Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)
Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) is a mouthwatering dish that brings the bold flavors of the Outback Steakhouse right to your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken breasts slathered in a creamy honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this crowd-pleaser is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (horizontally sliced)
- 6 slices cooked bacon
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp stone-ground mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, and stone-ground mustard until smooth.
- Place seared chicken in a baking dish; spread honey-mustard sauce on top, then add crumbled bacon and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
