Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: Outback Copycat Guide

The Origin of Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Before we get into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the origins of this dish. The Alice Springs Chicken is named after Alice Springs, a remote town in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory. Outback Steakhouse, with its Australian-themed menu, created this dish to evoke the rugged, hearty flavors that might be enjoyed in the Australian Outback. The dish itself, however, is a perfect representation of comfort food with its combination of grilled chicken, bacon, cheese, and a delectable honey mustard sauce. It’s no wonder that this dish has become a favorite among diners.

Ingredients for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

To recreate this restaurant-quality dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (horizontally sliced in half)
• 6 slices of cooked bacon
• 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons stone-ground mustard
• Salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning

Alternative Ingredients

• Low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce
• Turkey bacon as a leaner substitute
• Vegan cheese and plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version

Ingredient Details and Substitutions

Understanding your ingredients is key to perfecting any recipe. Let’s take a closer look at the main components of Alice Springs Chicken Recipe and explore some possible substitutions to cater to different dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Chicken Breasts

The base of this dish is the chicken breast. For the best results, use high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. You can choose to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or keep the skin on for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking to save time, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, although grilling your own will provide the most authentic flavor.

For those looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. While thighs are darker meat and contain more fat, they are also more forgiving during cooking and can remain juicy even if slightly overcooked.

Bacon

Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element to the dish that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and creamy cheese. For a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon, which is lower in fat and calories but still provides that satisfying crunch. If you’re following a vegetarian diet, plant-based bacon options are also available, made from ingredients like tempeh or seitan, which can mimic the texture and flavor of traditional bacon.

Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese is the traditional choice for this recipe due to its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of these cheeses can be used to add different flavors to the dish. For a more intense flavor, smoked gouda or pepper jack can be used.

For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, there are numerous plant-based cheeses available that melt well and can be used as a substitute. Look for a brand that offers good melting properties to ensure that the cheese melts evenly over the chicken.

Honey Mustard Sauce

The honey mustard sauce is what truly sets this dish apart. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a balance of flavors that complement the smoky bacon and rich cheese. To make the sauce healthier, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or replace it with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use a vegan mayonnaise or replace it entirely with a mix of Dijon mustard and a sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Honey Mustard Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients sorted, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making alice springs chicken recipe. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginners, and doesn’t require any complicated cooking techniques.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Slice and Season the Chicken: Begin by horizontally slicing the chicken breasts in half to create thinner pieces that cook more evenly. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and helps to create a nice crust on the chicken when it’s grilled.
2. Grill the Chicken: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are browned on both sides and cooked through. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chicken.
3. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer the pieces to a 9×13 baking dish. This dish will go into the oven after the sauce and toppings have been added.

Making the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, honey, and stone-ground mustard until well combined. The ratio of these ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste. For a sweeter sauce, add more honey; for a tangier sauce, increase the amount of mustard.
2. Season to Taste: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the sauce and taste it. Adjust the seasoning as needed. Some people like to add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for extra acidity, which can help balance the sweetness of the honey.

Assembling and Cooking

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the chicken.
2. Spread the Sauce: Spread the honey mustard sauce evenly over each piece of chicken in the baking dish. Make sure each piece is well coated, as this will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it bakes.
3. Add the Bacon and Cheese: Place slices of cooked bacon on top of each piece of chicken, then generously sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese over the bacon. The cheese should completely cover the bacon and chicken, creating a gooey, melted topping.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The sauce will meld with the juices from the chicken, creating a rich, flavorful base that complements the crispy bacon and melted cheese.

Finishing Touches

1. Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you like your cheese to have a bit of a crispy top, you can finish the dish by placing it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
2. Garnish: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for the Best Bacon and Cheese Chicken

Cooking the perfect Alice Springs Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out just right:

• Keep the Chicken Juicy: Marinating the chicken in a mix of baking soda, vinegar, and salt for 20 minutes before cooking can help tenderize it and keep it juicy. This is especially useful if you’re using chicken breasts, which can dry out easily if overcooked.
• Perfect Cheese Melt: Use freshly sliced Monterey Jack cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese to prevent it from drying out during baking. Freshly sliced cheese melts more evenly and has a creamier texture, which is key for this dish.
• Crispy Bacon: For the crispiest bacon, bake it separately in the oven on a wire rack before adding it to the chicken. This method allows the fat to drip away from the bacon, resulting in perfectly crisp strips that won’t become soggy when baked with the chicken.
• Avoid Overcooking: Chicken breasts can become dry and tough if overcooked. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Once it reaches this temperature, remove it from the oven to prevent further cooking.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Alice Springs Chicken with some delicious sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Baked Potatoes: A classic side that pairs perfectly with Alice Springs Chicken. You can make these in the oven or microwave for convenience. Top them with butter, sour cream, and chives for a simple yet satisfying side dish.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a refreshing side. Adding a sprinkling of feta cheese or nuts can add extra texture and flavor.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are excellent choices. Steaming them keeps them light and healthy while providing a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. For added flavor, toss the vegetables with a little garlic butter or olive oil before serving.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can complement the chicken nicely. Cook the rice in chicken broth and add sautéed onions, garlic, and a few herbs for a side dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with a little salt, is a simple but delicious side that adds a sweet crunch to your meal.

Pair your Alice Springs Chicken with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the rich flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing lemonade or iced tea would be equally delightful.

Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about Alice Springs Chicken is its versatility. Here are some ideas for customizing the dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Healthy Alternatives

• Low-Calorie Option: If you’re looking to cut calories, consider using low-fat mayonnaise in the sauce and replacing Monterey Jack cheese with a lighter cheese like mozzarella. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce fat content.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the honey in the sauce and replace it with a low-carb sweetener such as stevia or erythritol. This keeps the dish keto-friendly while still providing that sweet and tangy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: The traditional recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re using any packaged ingredients, such as sauces or cheese, make sure to check the labels for any hidden gluten. For added peace of mind, you can make your own honey mustard sauce from scratch using gluten-free ingredients.

Spicy Twist

• Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning on the chicken. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for an extra kick.
• Spicy Honey Mustard: For a spicy honey mustard sauce, add a tablespoon of hot sauce or sriracha to the sauce mix. This adds a bit of heat without overpowering the dish’s other flavors.

Vegetarian Version

• Use Plant-Based Alternatives: To make a vegetarian version of Alice Springs Chicken, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms. These mushrooms have a meaty texture and absorb the flavors of the sauce and seasonings well. You can also use tofu or tempeh as a base.
• Vegan Cheese and Bacon: Replace the cheese with a plant-based cheese that melts well, and use vegan bacon to replicate the smoky flavor and crispy texture of traditional bacon. Brands like Daiya or Follow Your Heart offer vegan cheeses that are great for melting.

International Flavors

• Mediterranean Twist: Add some Mediterranean flair to your Alice Springs Chicken by incorporating flavors like oregano, garlic, and lemon into the seasoning. You can also top the chicken with feta cheese and kalamata olives instead of Monterey Jack and bacon.
• Asian Fusion: For an Asian-inspired version, replace the honey mustard sauce with a teriyaki glaze, and use sesame seeds and green onions as toppings. Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and sautéed bok choy for a complete meal.
• Mexican Style: Add some Mexican flavors by seasoning the chicken with taco seasoning and topping it with cheddar cheese and pico de gallo. You can also drizzle some chipotle mayo over the top for an extra kick.

FAQs About the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Here are some frequently asked questions about Alice Springs Chicken:

What is Alice Springs Chicken Recipe?

Alice Springs Chicken is a popular dish from Outback Steakhouse, featuring grilled chicken smothered in a honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese.

Why is it called Alice Springs Chicken Recipe?

The dish is named after the town of Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory, reflecting Outback Steakhouse’s Australian theme.

How can I make the honey mustard sauce like Outback?

To make a sauce similar to Outback’s, mix mayonnaise, honey, and stone-ground mustard in a 1:1:2 ratio. For a richer flavor, try using stone-ground mustard.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Monterey Jack cheese is commonly used for its creamy melt, but you can also use cheddar or mozzarella depending on your preference. Learn more about the benefits of Monterey Jack cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before baking.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave on a medium setting.

What is Alice Springs Chicken Recipe at Outback?

At Outback Steakhouse, Alice Springs Chicken is a signature dish that includes grilled chicken topped with honey mustard sauce, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. It’s served with a side of fries or another side of your choice.

How much is the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe at Outback Steakhouse?

The price of Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse can vary depending on the location, but it typically ranges from $15 to $20.

How many calories are in Alice Springs Chicken Recipe?

A serving of Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse contains approximately 750 calories, including the toppings and sauce.

What is Chicken on the Barbie?

Chicken on the Barbie is another popular dish at Outback Steakhouse. It features grilled chicken breast that’s simply seasoned and served with a side of BBQ sauce for dipping. It’s a lighter option compared to Alice Springs Chicken.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of Alice Springs Chicken provides approximately:

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 44g
• Fat: 33g
• Sodium: 620mg

For a lighter version, consider using low-fat ingredients and reducing the amount of cheese.

Conclusion

This Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its savory flavors and rich textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it and explore more recipes that bring the taste of Outback Steakhouse into your kitchen.

For those who enjoy experimenting with new flavors, why not try some delicious Earl Grey Cookies or a Pumpkin Banana Loaf to accompany your meal? These treats could be the perfect sweet ending to a hearty dinner.

Happy cooking!