If you’ve ever been to Outback Steakhouse, chances are you’ve encountered Alice Springs Chicken—juicy, cheesy, bacon-topped perfection with a tangy honey mustard kick. It’s one of those dishes that feels like pure comfort, the kind of meal that turns an ordinary night into something special.
Good news: you don’t have to go out to enjoy it. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy step-by-step process, you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen.
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
At its heart, Alice Springs Chicken is a layered, flavor-packed dish featuring:
- Chicken breasts – the juicy foundation
- Crispy bacon – for a smoky crunch
- Melted cheese – a gooey blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar
- Honey mustard sauce – the sweet and tangy star
- Mushrooms and herbs – optional, but highly recommended
Though named after a remote Australian town, this dish has become a household favorite far beyond the Outback Steakhouse menu. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making it a go-to for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Essential Ingredients & Pro Tips
The beauty of Alice Springs Chicken lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you need:
Chicken Breasts
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to make cooking easier.
- Choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- If they’re thick, pound them to an even thickness—this helps prevent dryness.
Honey Mustard Sauce (The Secret to Flavor!)
A homemade honey mustard sauce makes all the difference. You’ll need:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- A dash of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Pro Tip: Store-bought honey mustard works in a pinch, but making your own lets you control the sweetness and tang.
Bacon & Cheese
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor. Cook until crispy!
- A Monterey Jack and cheddar mix melts beautifully.
Mushrooms & Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)
- Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy balance to the richness.
- Chopped parsley or chives provide a fresh finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken (for Maximum Juiciness!)
Before you even think about turning on the stove, give your chicken some love.
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Whisk everything together in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken evenly and marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best!).
Why marinate? It infuses the chicken with deep flavor while keeping it moist.
2. Cook the Bacon (Crispy is Key!)
- Start with a cold skillet (this helps render the fat).
- Cook on medium heat, flipping occasionally.
- Drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.
Pro Tip: Save a little bacon grease for searing the chicken—it adds extra flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken (for a Golden Crust)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil (or that reserved bacon fat!).
- Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Set aside (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet).
This step locks in moisture and creates a delicious base for all the toppings.
4. Assemble & Bake
Now for the fun part!
Assembly Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Brush a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over each piece.
- Add crispy bacon strips on top.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- (Optional) Add sautéed mushrooms.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Serving & Side Dish Ideas
Alice Springs Chicken is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with the right sides balances the meal:
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy goodness that soaks up the honey mustard sauce.
Rice Pilaf – Light and fluffy, it complements the dish’s richness.
Steamed Broccoli – A fresh contrast to the cheesy chicken.
Grilled Veggies – Zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers add color and crunch.
Pro Tip: Drizzle any leftover honey mustard sauce over the side dishes for extra flavor!
Recipe Variations & Customizations
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
- Replace honey with a keto-friendly sweetener.
- Serve with cauliflower rice or zoodles instead of potatoes or regular rice.
Vegetarian Twist
- Swap chicken for portobello mushrooms or tofu.
- Use plant-based bacon for a smoky bite.
Spicy Version
- Add a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of sriracha to the honey mustard sauce.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Overcooking the Chicken
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temp.
- If unsure, pull it out at 160°F—it will continue cooking as it rests.
Too Much Salt
- Remember, bacon and cheese are already salty—go easy on extra salt!
Skipping the Marinade
- Trust us, don’t skip this step! Even 2 hours makes a big difference.
FAQs
Can I Make Alice Springs Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and pre-cook the bacon in advance. Assemble when ready to bake.
How Do I Store & Reheat Leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) in the oven to maintain texture.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and cook as directed.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! They’re juicier than breasts, but adjust cooking time as needed.
What’s the Best Cheese Combo?
A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar gives the best flavor and melt.
Final Thoughts
Alice Springs Chicken is more than just a dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort, flavor, and a little restaurant magic to your table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe guarantees satisfaction.
So go ahead—give it a try, customize it to your liking, and enjoy every cheesy, bacon-y, honey-mustard-coated bite. And if you do, let us know how it turns out! Happy cooking!