Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Outback Steakhouse right into your home. This recipe features succulent chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Juicy and Flavorful: The honey mustard sauce keeps the chicken moist while adding a fantastic flavor.
• Family Favorite: With cheese and bacon involved, this dish is a guaranteed hit among kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with veggies, rice, or salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Gourmet Experience at Home: Enjoy restaurant-quality food without the hefty price tag by making it yourself.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Cooking skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in the chicken.
• Cooking skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken and sautéing any additional ingredients like mushrooms.

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: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on each side, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, honey, and stone-ground mustard. Mix well until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Place the browned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
2. Spread an even layer of honey mustard sauce over each piece of chicken.
3. Top with chopped bacon, followed by shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside your favorite sides!

Enjoy your homemade Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) as a delicious main course that captures all the flavors of Outback Steakhouse!

How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

Alice Springs Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the Outback Steakhouse right to your kitchen. Served hot and fresh, it pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

Pairing with Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons.
• Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing for a light complement.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that balances the savory chicken.

Accompanying Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a delicious carb boost to your meal.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra honey mustard sauce.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.

Adding Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears bring a smoky flavor when grilled, enhancing your dish’s richness.

How to Perfect Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

To achieve the best version of Alice Springs Chicken, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour to enhance flavor absorption.
• Cook Evenly: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F in the center for safe consumption.
• Crisp Bacon First: Cook bacon until crispy before adding it on top; this adds texture and flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Add cheese just before removing from heat so it melts perfectly without burning.
• Experiment with Mustard Types: Try different mustards like Dijon or spicy brown to change flavor profiles slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

When serving Alice Springs Chicken, complement it with some classic side dishes that enhance its deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs well with the chicken’s flavors.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth and heartiness to your meal.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes an excellent backdrop for the chicken’s richness.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter bite that balances the dish well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser at dinner tables.
6. French Fries: Crispy fries are always an indulgent choice that complements almost any main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Alice Springs Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting the sauce: If you don’t prepare the honey mustard sauce properly, it may not have the right balance of sweetness and tanginess. Mix mayo, honey, and mustard thoroughly for best results.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opting for lower-quality cheese can affect the dish’s creaminess and flavor. Choose good-quality Monterey Jack cheese for optimal taste.
• Forgetting about toppings: Skipping bacon or mushrooms can make your dish less flavorful. Ensure you add these toppings for that authentic Outback experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil; it can last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a piece of chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a lid, and heat in 1-minute increments until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then cover and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Alice Springs Chicken:

What is Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken is a popular recipe inspired by Outback Steakhouse featuring chicken breasts topped with honey mustard sauce, cheese, bacon, and optional mushrooms.

How do I make my own honey mustard sauce?

To create your own honey mustard sauce, combine mayonnaise, honey, and stone-ground mustard in a bowl until well blended. Adjust ingredients to taste.

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes! While Monterey Jack is traditional, you can substitute it with cheddar or Swiss cheese according to personal preference.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon and low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute in the sauce.

How do I serve Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken is best served hot with sides like steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with salad.

Final Thoughts

Alice Springs Chicken is a delightful dish that brings restaurant quality right into your kitchen. Its combination of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s dinner with family or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the sauce ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!