Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Table of Contents
When I walked into Outback Steakhouse, the smell of their famous alice springs chicken hit me. The chicken was tender and juicy, covered in a sweet honey mustard sauce. It was topped with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
This dish left a lasting impression on my taste buds. Now, I’m excited to guide you through making this iconic dish at home. You’ll get to enjoy the flavors of Outback Steakhouse’s alice springs chicken.
Understanding Outback’s Signature Chicken Dish
The Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. It’s named after Alice Springs in Northern Australia. This dish is loved for its unique flavors and textures.
Origins of Alice Springs Chicken
Outback Steakhouse introduced the Alice Springs Chicken as a signature dish. It was inspired by Australia’s bold flavors. Now, it’s a top choice among Outback’s menu items.
What Makes This Dish Special
The Alice Springs Chicken has juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. This mix of ingredients makes it a rich and indulgent dish. It’s a favorite among Outback’s customers.
Key Flavor Components
The aussie chicken marinade is at the heart of the Alice Springs Chicken. It gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste. The marinade is made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
The savory toppings, like sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon, add depth to the dish. They make the flavor profile complex and satisfying.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 lbs (4 halves) |
| Honey Mustard Marinade | 1 cup |
| Sliced Mushrooms | 2 cups |
| Cooked Bacon Slices | 8 slices |
| Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
“The Alice Springs Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the best of Australian-inspired flavors and textures.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
To make the famous Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse, you need top-notch ingredients. At the core is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They make the dish tender and juicy. The marinade, made of honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
For extra flavor, sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon are added on top of the chicken. Then, a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese is sprinkled on. This cheese melts and adds a creamy, cheesy layer.
Some recipes suggest adding Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning or paprika for more taste. By picking and mixing these key ingredients, you can make Outback’s grilled chicken breast recipe at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 (about 1 1/2 pounds) |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 8 ounces |
| Cooked bacon, chopped into 2-inch pieces | 4 slices |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
By choosing and mixing these key ingredients, you can make Outback’s chicken breast marinade recipes at home.
Creating the Signature Honey Mustard Marinade
The secret to Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken is the honey mustard marinade. This sauce tenderizes the chicken and adds a sweet and savory taste. It makes the dish truly special.
Marinade Base Components
The marinade is made from Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Dijon mustard gives it a strong flavor. Honey adds sweetness, creating a perfect mix.
Proper Marination Techniques
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag.
- Pour in about one-third of the prepared marinade, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
- Refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 2 hours, but no more than 24 hours, to allow the flavors to permeate the meat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
You can store the leftover marinade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It’s great for basting the chicken or as a dipping sauce.
Make the marinade up to 24 hours before. Store it separately from the chicken until you’re ready to make the dish.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 650 |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 155mg |
| Sodium | 990mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugars | 18g (mostly from honey mustard) |
| Protein | 63g |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the famous Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse is simple. Just follow a few easy steps to make this tasty grilled chicken dish at home. Here’s how to prepare this easy chicken dinner idea and grilled chicken recipe.
- Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in homemade honey mustard sauce. This mix of tangy and sweet will make the meat taste amazing.
- Then, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Remove excess fat and save the bacon.
- Heat a skillet and sauté the mushrooms and onions until they’re soft and smell great.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. It should turn golden brown.
- Place the sautéed mushrooms and bacon on top of the chicken. Add shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Put the dish in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. The cheese should melt, and the chicken should be fully cooked, reaching 165°F inside.
Follow these steps to make the Alice Springs Chicken at home. Serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s a complete and tasty easy chicken dinner idea. Enjoy!
Mastering the Mushroom and Bacon Topping
The mushroom and bacon topping takes the classic Alice Springs Chicken to new heights. It adds depth, texture, and a unique flavor. Learning to sauté mushrooms and prepare perfect bacon is key to getting that Outback Steakhouse taste.
Mushroom Sautéing Technique
Start by picking your mushrooms, like button, cremini, or baby bella. Sauté them in a lot of butter over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir them now and then until they’re golden brown and their juices are out.
This caramelization brings out the mushrooms’ rich, earthy flavors. These flavors will match the chicken perfectly.
Bacon Preparation Methods
- You can cook the bacon on the stovetop or in the oven. On the stovetop, fry the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Or, bake the bacon in a 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This makes it crispy.
Assembly Tips
After sautéing the mushrooms and cooking the bacon, it’s time to put it all together. Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon slices, broken in half.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms | 8 oz (227 g) |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp (30 ml) |
| Bacon slices | 4-8 slices |
By following these steps, you’ll get a perfect mushroom and bacon topping. It will make your grilled chicken breast recipe a hit. It’s an easy chicken dinner idea that everyone will love.
Cheese Selection and Melting Techniques
For your grilled chicken recipes, the Alice Springs Chicken dish uses a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. This mix of creamy and tangy flavors goes well with the chicken, mushrooms, and bacon. You can also try Colby Jack as a cheese option.
To get the cheese just right, sprinkle it evenly over the dish. Make sure the chicken, mushrooms, and bacon are all covered. Then, bake the Alice Springs Chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. This will melt the cheese until it’s bubbly.
| Cheese Variety | Flavor Profile | Melting Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Monterey Jack | Mild, creamy | Melts smoothly |
| Cheddar | Tangy, sharp | Melts well, retains texture |
| Colby Jack | Mild, slightly nutty | Melts evenly |
The secret to a great melted cheese topping is the right mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar. This mix not only boosts the flavor but also makes the cheese layer smooth and gooey. It’s a look and taste that will make you want more.
Cooking Methods and Temperature Guidelines
To get the perfect grilled chicken breast, you need the right cooking methods and temperatures. You can choose between stovetop searing or oven finishing. The goal is to cook the chicken through while keeping it juicy and flavorful.
Stovetop Searing Process
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil starts shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until it’s golden-brown.
This initial searing seals in the juices and adds a caramelized flavor to your grilled chicken breast recipe.
Oven Finishing Temperatures
After searing, move the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven. Bake the chicken for 10 more minutes, until it reaches 165°F inside. This oven step ensures the chicken is cooked and stays moist.
Some recipes suggest using a cast-iron skillet. It works well from stovetop to oven, providing even heat and better chicken breast basting sauce flavors.
It’s important to check the chicken’s internal temperature often. Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough. Aim for 165°F to enjoy the juiciest and most flavorful grilled chicken breasts.
Plating and Serving Suggestions
When serving your Alice Springs Chicken, focus on its vibrant flavors and textures. Serve it hot, topped with fresh parsley. This adds color and a fragrant touch to the meal.
For a full Outback Steakhouse feel, pair the chicken with sides that match its savory taste. Try green beans, asparagus, mashed potatoes, or baked potatoes. For a treat, top mashed potatoes with bacon, cheese, and chives.
Don’t forget the honey mustard sauce. Serve it on the side for dipping. This way, your guests can enjoy it over the chicken or as a tasty sauce.
| Side Dish | Pairing Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Green Beans | The crunchy texture and bright, fresh flavor of green beans complement the richness of the Alice Springs Chicken beautifully. |
| Oven-Roasted Asparagus | The earthy, slightly sweet notes of roasted asparagus pair perfectly with the aussie chicken marinade used in the dish. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, comforting mashed potatoes provide a perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the easy chicken dinner ideas. |
| Baked Potatoes | The fluffy texture and versatility of baked potatoes make them an excellent accompaniment to the Alice Springs Chicken. |
The presentation of Alice Springs Chicken is key to a memorable meal. By plating it well and offering matching sides, you’ll bring Outback Steakhouse to your guests. This creates a dining experience that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
After enjoying the tasty Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll want to keep the flavors going. Here are some easy tips for storing and reheating your leftovers.
For short-term storage, place leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, heat the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until it’s hot inside.
If you want to freeze it, cool the dish first. Then, put it in an airtight container or Ziplock bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it in the oven or air fryer until it’s hot.
Using these storage and reheating tips will keep the Alice Springs Chicken delicious. You can enjoy this easy chicken dinner idea many times.
| Storage Method | Recommended Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Preheat oven to 400°F, reheat for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw in refrigerator overnight, then reheat in oven or air fryer until heated through |
These simple tips let you enjoy the chicken breast marinade recipes whenever you want. The Alice Springs Chicken is perfect for quick, tasty meals.
Conclusion
The Alice Springs Chicken recipe from Outback Steakhouse is a true delight. It can make your home cooking even better. By marinating the chicken, sautéing mushrooms, and melting cheese, you can easily make this iconic dish.
Remember to watch the cooking times and temperatures. This ensures the chicken is juicy and the toppings are crispy and flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a great meal, this recipe will impress. Try different variations and adjust the flavors to your liking. With the right techniques, your kitchen can feel like Outback Steakhouse.
So, get your ingredients ready, fire up the grill or oven, and enjoy the Alice Springs Chicken. Share it with family and friends. The mix of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors makes it a favorite.
FAQ
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. It’s marinated grilled chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce.
Where does the name “Alice Springs Chicken” come from?
It’s named after Alice Springs in Northern Australia. It’s a top pick at Outback Steakhouse.
What are the key ingredients in Alice Springs Chicken?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. You also need bacon, mushrooms, and cheese.
How do you make the signature honey mustard marinade?
Mix Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice for the marinade. Marinate the chicken for 2 to 24 hours.
How do you prepare and assemble the dish?
First, marinate the chicken. Then, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Next, sauté mushrooms and onions.
After that, sear the chicken. Finally, top it with mushrooms, bacon, and cheese.
Can Alice Springs Chicken be made ahead and stored?
Yes, you can make the marinade up to 24 hours ahead. Store it separately from the chicken. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 3 months.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Alice Springs Chicken?
Good sides include green beans, asparagus, mashed potatoes, or baked potatoes. For a full Outback Steakhouse feel, try loaded mashed potatoes or a side salad.
