Alice Springs Chicken is a beloved dish inspired by the famous Outback Steakhouse recipe. It features juicy chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and a creamy honey mustard sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that feels a little special without being complicated. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken and Toppings:
– 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
– 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons salted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack)
– Seasoned salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or sliced green onions for garnish
For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
– ½ cup Dijon mustard
– ½ cup honey
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Reserve about one-third of this sauce for dipping later. This sauce will both marinate the chicken and be served alongside it for extra flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-lock bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining honey mustard sauce over the chicken, seal, and toss to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
Add the butter to the skillet, then sauté the sliced mushrooms with a pinch of seasoned salt and pepper until golden and tender, about 5 minutes. Remove the mushrooms and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken
Add olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and place the breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Assemble and Bake
Top each chicken breast with the sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve with the reserved honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Alice Springs Chicken
– Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
– Cheese Choices: Try different cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, or Swiss for a unique twist.
– Grill Option: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
– Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Alice Springs Chicken is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors that will impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home anytime. Enjoy the juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy honey mustard sauce that make this dish a true delight. Give it a try tonight and savor every bite!