Experience the thrill of recreating a beloved restaurant classic right in your kitchen with this incredible copycat recipe for Alice Springs Chicken! Say goodbye to long waits and hello to perfectly grilled honey mustard chicken, generously topped with savory sautéed mushrooms, crisp, smoky bacon, and a blanket of deliciously melted cheese. This iconic dish from Outback Steakhouse is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen, promising a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
Table of contents
- The Outback Inspiration
- Why This Copycat Recipe is the Best
- Ingredients for Your Outback Masterpiece
- Step-by-Step Instructions to Alice Springs Perfection
- No Grill? No Problem! Stove-to-Oven Method
- Pro Tips for a Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
- Storage and Reheating Leftovers
- What to Serve with Your Homemade Alice Springs Chicken
- More Irresistible Chicken Recipes
The Outback Inspiration
My journey into the world of Alice Springs Chicken began during my high school years, working at the takeout window of Outback Steakhouse. It was there that I first encountered the irresistible allure of their honey mustard chicken, the tangy mustard vinaigrette dressing, and, of course, that legendary bread. The flavors were truly unforgettable, and it quickly became a personal favorite.
Inspired by these culinary delights, my Dad and I embarked on a mission to replicate this popular menu item at home. What started as a fun kitchen experiment soon transformed into a cherished family tradition. For over two decades, this homemade Alice Springs Chicken has graced our dinner table, bringing smiles and satisfaction with every serving. Now, after countless iterations and perfecting the nuances, I’m thrilled to share my insider secrets and present to you the ultimate copycat recipe for Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken!
Why This Copycat Recipe is the Best
What makes this particular Alice Springs Chicken recipe stand out is its balance of restaurant-quality taste with home-cook friendly preparation. My top recommendation for tackling this dish is to embrace the power of prep ahead. Imagine this: while your bacon crisps up in the oven and the savory mushrooms caramelize on the stovetop, your chicken can be happily marinating. This streamlined approach means that all the foundational prep work can be accomplished in under 30 minutes, freeing you up to effortlessly assemble this show-stopping dinner in just about 15 minutes when it’s time to eat.
Beyond its efficiency, this copycat Alice Springs Chicken recipe boasts remarkable versatility. It’s designed to be easily customizable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences within your family. If certain members aren’t keen on mushrooms or prefer to skip the bacon, these toppings can be effortlessly omitted from individual portions. And if you’re like me, you’ll be asking for all the extra bacon and mushrooms piled high on your plate – because when it comes to flavor, more is always better!
Ingredients for Your Outback Masterpiece
Crafting the perfect Alice Springs Chicken begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that authentic Outback flavor:
- Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, aim for two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ideally weighing around two pounds total. We’ll butterfly these larger breasts, slicing them horizontally through the middle, to yield four thinner, more manageable pieces of chicken. This ensures quicker, more even cooking and better absorption of the delicious marinade.
- Honey Mustard Dressing: This is the heart of the dish! You can either whip up my highly recommended homemade dressing using the linked recipe – it’s a delightful blend of Dijon mustard, sweet honey, rich olive oil, bright lemon juice, and aromatic spices – or opt for your favorite high-quality store-bought honey mustard sauce for convenience. The dressing acts as both a marinade and a finishing glaze, infusing the chicken with its signature sweet and tangy flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sliced baby bella mushrooms, also known as crimini mushrooms, are my preferred choice for their robust, earthy flavor and firm texture. However, sliced white button mushrooms will also work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand. They add a wonderful umami depth to the dish when sautéed.
- Unsalted Butter + Olive Oil: This dynamic duo provides the perfect fat base for sautéing the mushrooms. The butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures, ensuring perfectly golden-brown mushrooms.
- Soy Sauce: A crucial ingredient for the mushrooms, soy sauce delivers a punch of both saltiness and an incredible umami depth, mimicking flavors often found in restaurant dishes. For a slight variation or if you prefer, Worcestershire sauce can be used to add a similar savory complexity, or simply a pinch of kosher salt to taste.
- Vegetable Broth: Used to deglaze the skillet and tenderize the mushrooms, vegetable broth (or chicken broth) introduces moisture and additional savory notes, creating a rich sauce base for the mushrooms.
- Fresh Garlic + Dried Thyme + Black Pepper: These aromatic seasonings are essential for elevating the mushrooms’ flavor profile. Freshly minced garlic offers a pungent, fragrant kick, dried thyme contributes an herbaceous warmth, and freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice that ties everything together.
- Bacon: Whether you choose traditional thinly sliced bacon or a thicker cut, crispy bacon is non-negotiable for that authentic Alice Springs experience. It provides a salty crunch and a savory, smoky flavor that beautifully complements the chicken and cheese.
- Monterey Jack + Cheddar Cheese: This classic combination provides the ultimate melty, gooey topping. Monterey Jack is known for its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy flavor, while cheddar adds a sharper, more distinct cheese taste. For the absolute best melting results and superior flavor, I strongly recommend grating both cheeses yourself at home. Pre-shredded cheeses sold in bags often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can prevent them from melting smoothly and result in a slightly gritty texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Alice Springs Perfection
Follow these detailed steps and accompanying photos to effortlessly create this incredible Alice Springs Chicken in your own kitchen. For the precise ingredient quantities and a quick-reference summary, please refer to the recipe card found at the bottom of this post.
- Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet. The foil not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps contain the grease. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Set aside until ready to use.
- Marinate the Chicken for Flavor Infusion: While the bacon is cooking, prepare your chicken. Take the two large chicken breasts and carefully slice each one horizontally through the middle to create four thinner, even pieces. Place these chicken cutlets into a large, sturdy zipper-lock bag. Pour ¾ cup of the irresistible honey mustard dressing over the chicken. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible, and gently massage the dressing into the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Transfer the bag to the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
- Sauté the Savory Mushrooms: In a large skillet on your stovetop, melt the unsalted butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy and the oil is shimmering, add the sliced mushrooms along with the soy sauce. Stir everything together gently to coat the mushrooms. Now, here’s a crucial tip for perfectly browned mushrooms: resist the urge to stir! Cook the mushrooms undisturbed for 5 minutes. This allows them to develop a beautiful golden-brown sear and deepen their flavor. After 5 minutes, add the vegetable or chicken broth to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until almost all the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms are tender and richly flavored. Finally, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for just 1-2 more minutes until the garlic is fragrant, then remove the skillet from the heat and set the sautéed mushrooms aside.
Excellent news for meal planners! These first three crucial steps—cooking the bacon, marinating the chicken, and sautéing the mushrooms—can all be completed up to 24 hours in advance. For optimal freshness and safety, store the cooked bacon and mushrooms in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator if preparing them more than an hour ahead of time. This significantly cuts down on active cooking time when you’re ready to serve.
- Grill the Marinated Chicken: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, use tongs to carefully remove the chicken breasts from the honey mustard marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard any remaining marinade in the bag. Place the chicken directly on the hot grill. Season lightly with salt and the remaining black pepper. Cook the chicken for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature of each piece reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
- Top and Melt: Once the chicken is cooked through, turn off the heat on one side of your grill to create a cooler, indirect heat zone. Lay a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil on the grill grates in this cooler section. Carefully transfer the grilled chicken breasts onto the foil. Now, brush each piece of chicken generously with the remaining ¼ cup of honey mustard dressing. Evenly divide the flavorful sautéed mushrooms over the chicken, then place two slices of crispy bacon on top of each piece. Finally, sprinkle a heaping handful of both shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the bacon. Close the lid of the grill and allow the cheese to melt beautifully over the chicken for 1-2 minutes. The residual heat will transform the cheese into a bubbly, golden topping. Once the cheese is perfectly melted, open the grill and use tongs to remove the chicken from the foil and serve immediately. For an added touch of freshness and color, you can optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
No Grill? No Problem! Stove-to-Oven Method
Don’t have a grill, or perhaps the weather isn’t cooperating? You can still enjoy this incredible Alice Springs Chicken recipe by adapting it for your stovetop and oven. First, complete the initial steps of cooking the bacon, preparing the mushrooms, and marinating the chicken as outlined above. Then, proceed with these adjusted instructions:
- Preheat your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). Place a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works wonderfully) on your stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to get thoroughly hot. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from their marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken into the hot skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust, until the chicken is fully cooked and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).
- Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, reduce the stovetop heat to low or turn it off. Brush the remaining honey mustard dressing evenly over each chicken breast in the skillet. Distribute the sautéed mushrooms generously, then top each piece of chicken with two slices of the crispy bacon. Finally, cover with a liberal handful of both Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
- Without removing the skillet from the stovetop, carefully transfer the entire oven-safe skillet to the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and beautifully golden brown. Remove from the oven with caution, as the skillet handle will be hot, and serve your delicious oven-baked Alice Springs Chicken immediately.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
- Grill Grate Preparation is Key: Before placing your chicken on the grill, always ensure that your grill is preheated to the correct temperature and that the grates are meticulously clean. A hot, clean grill will create those coveted sear marks and, most importantly, prevent the chicken from sticking, ensuring an even cook and easy flipping.
- Utilize Foil for Toppings: I highly recommend transferring your perfectly grilled chicken to a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil on the grill (or a baking sheet if using the oven method) before adding any toppings. This simple step is a game-changer! It prevents delicious mushrooms, bacon, and melting cheese from falling through the grill grates and creating a messy cleanup situation.
- Proper Mushroom Cleaning: When preparing your mushrooms, it’s vital to avoid submerging them in water. Mushrooms are like sponges; they will readily absorb liquid, which can lead to soggy, unappetizing results. The best method is to gently wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. If they are particularly dirty, a very quick rinse under cold water followed by immediate and thorough drying with paper towels is acceptable.
- Master the Mushroom Sauté: For mushrooms with incredible flavor and texture, resist the urge to constantly stir them while sautéing. You want them to have ample time to develop a beautiful golden-brown color and caramelization, which won’t happen if they’re moved around too frequently. Let them cook undisturbed for at least 5 minutes after adding them to the hot pan to achieve that desirable deep flavor and appealing texture.
- Bacon Cooking Best Practices: Always use a rimmed baking sheet when cooking bacon in the oven. The rim acts as a barrier, preventing the hot grease from splattering all over your oven and making a mess.
- Foil for Effortless Bacon Cleanup: Lining your rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil when cooking bacon is not just ideal for easy cleanup, it’s essential. Once the bacon is cooked and cooled slightly, you can simply fold up the sides of the foil to safely contain all the rendered grease, making disposal incredibly simple and keeping your baking sheet spotless.
- Don’t Rush the Marinade: While 30 minutes will impart some flavor, allowing the chicken to marinate for a longer period (up to 24 hours) will yield significantly more tender and flavorful results. The acids and flavors in the honey mustard dressing need time to penetrate the meat.
- Internal Temperature is Key: Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This is not just for food safety but also guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
Storage and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage is essential to enjoy your delicious Alice Springs Chicken leftovers. Place any remaining chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures its freshness and flavor are maintained.
When it comes to reheating, we highly recommend using an air fryer. This method helps the chicken remain tender while ensuring the bacon crisps up beautifully, just like it was freshly made. Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a conventional oven. Place it on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed and the cheese is bubbly again. While possible, reheating in the microwave is less ideal, as it can make the bacon soggy and the chicken dry; if you must, use short bursts of heat.
What to Serve with Your Homemade Alice Springs Chicken
To truly complete your Outback Steakhouse copycat experience, pair your homemade Alice Springs Chicken with some classic side dishes that you’d find on their menu. These selections are chosen to complement the rich flavors of the chicken, mushrooms, bacon, and cheese:
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet vibrant side, steamed broccoli offers a healthy and fresh contrast to the rich main course. Its slight bitterness and crisp-tender texture cut through the savory flavors.
- Air Fryer French Fries: Achieve perfectly crispy and golden fries without the deep-frying mess. These are always a crowd-pleaser and offer that satisfying salty crunch alongside your chicken.
- Blue Cheese Salad (Chopped Wedge): A classic steakhouse pairing, a refreshing chopped wedge salad with a robust blue cheese dressing provides a cool, tangy, and crunchy counterpoint to the warm, hearty chicken.
- Air Fryer Baked Potato: Light and fluffy on the inside with a perfectly crispy skin, an air fryer baked potato is an easy and delicious canvas for all your favorite toppings, just like at Outback.
- Roasted Sweet Potato (Oven, Air Fryer or Microwave): For a sweeter, nutrient-rich alternative, a roasted sweet potato offers a delightful earthy sweetness that complements the honey mustard flavors.
- Asparagus (Grill, Stove or Oven): Elegant and flavorful, grilled or roasted asparagus adds a touch of sophistication and fresh, green notes to the plate.
- Mac and Cheese (Easy Stovetop Recipe): For ultimate comfort, a creamy, dreamy mac and cheese is an undeniable pairing, offering a rich, cheesy indulgence that kids and adults alike will adore.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes loaded with butter, cheese, sour cream, and chives create an incredibly satisfying and hearty side that embodies the steakhouse experience.
- Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: If you’re looking for another vegetable side with a touch of sweetness and smoky bacon, these Brussels sprouts are a fantastic choice, offering complex flavors and textures.
Consider serving with a simple green salad or even some crusty bread to soak up any extra honey mustard sauce for a truly complete and satisfying meal.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed mastering this Alice Springs Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Explore these other popular and delicious chicken recipes that are perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion:
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Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Steakhouse Copycat)
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, two large chicken breasts, butterflied lengthwise through the middle, for 4 thinner cutlets
- 1 cup honey mustard dressing, divided for marinade and glaze
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces sliced baby bella mushrooms, or crimini/white button mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or 1 teaspoon salt or Worcestershire sauce for umami
- ¼ cup vegetable broth, or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt, for seasoning chicken
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded for best melting
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly shredded for best melting
Instructions
Prepare Ahead (Bacon, Marinade, Mushrooms)
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is perfectly crisp. Remove from the baking sheet and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Set aside.
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Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally through the middle to create 4 thinner pieces. Place the chicken into a large zipper-lock bag. Add ¾ cup of the honey mustard dressing. Seal the bag and massage the dressing into the chicken to ensure it’s fully coated. Refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
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In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Stir to combine, then cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow for browning.
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Pour in ¼ cup of vegetable or chicken broth. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until almost all the liquid has evaporated.
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Stir in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the mushrooms aside.
Grill and Assemble
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled.
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Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade. Place chicken on the hot grill and season with ½ teaspoon salt and the remaining ½ teaspoon black pepper.
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Grill for 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with an instant-read thermometer.
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Turn off the heat on one side of the grill to create a cooler zone. Place a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil on the grill grates in this cooler section.
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Transfer the grilled chicken breasts onto the foil. Brush each piece with the remaining ¼ cup honey mustard dressing.
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Evenly divide the sautéed mushrooms over the chicken, then place two slices of crispy bacon on top of each piece.
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Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese generously over the bacon. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using tongs and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Advance Preparation: The initial three steps—cooking the bacon, marinating the chicken, and sautéing the mushrooms—can all be completed up to 24 hours prior to serving. Ensure cooked bacon and mushrooms are stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator if prepared more than an hour in advance.
- Stove-to-Oven Method (No Grill):
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Remove chicken from marinade and sear in the hot skillet for 5-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Brush the cooked chicken with the remaining honey mustard dressing. Top with sautéed mushrooms, two slices of bacon per piece, and the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Leftovers: Store leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For reheating, an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes is recommended to maintain tenderness and crisp bacon. Alternatively, reheat in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce, tamari, or Worcestershire sauce in place of traditional soy sauce.