Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

If you crave that irresistible steakhouse flavor but prefer staying home, this Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken hits the spot. It’s a comforting combination of juicy chicken, sweet-tangy honey mustard, crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a blanket of melted cheese — a true crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make.

I first whipped it up on a busy weeknight when I wanted something cozy but effortless, and my family has requested it ever since. With its rich layers of flavor and satisfying texture, this dish turns an ordinary chicken dinner into something special. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, it brings the warmth and indulgence of a steakhouse meal straight to your kitchen table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Indulgent Flavor

The beauty of this chicken lies in the balance of flavors. The honey mustard sauce offers that perfect mix of sweet and tangy, while bacon and cheese bring smokiness and savory comfort. Add in the mushrooms, which lend an earthy depth, and you’ve got a combination that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen — but you made it yourself.

Simple and Accessible Ingredients

There’s nothing fancy or hard to find here — just everyday ingredients you probably already have at home. From the Dijon mustard and honey in your pantry to the cheese and bacon in your fridge, every component plays a role in creating that unforgettable flavor. Best of all, this recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, so it’s perfect for busy evenings.

Easy for All Skill Levels

Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is foolproof. The method is as simple as sear → top → bake, making it approachable and manageable for cooks of any skill level. No complicated techniques, just real, satisfying food.

Customizable to Your Taste

Make it your own! You can:

• Adjust the sweetness in the sauce.

• Try different cheese blends like Pepper Jack for extra heat.

• Use turkey bacon or skip mushrooms if you prefer a simpler version.

It’s one of those recipes that adapts beautifully to whatever’s in your fridge — and still tastes amazing every time.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

You’ll need:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish.

• ½ cup Dijon mustard – adds a tangy, zesty kick.

• ½ cup honey – balances the mustard with a touch of sweetness.

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise – adds creaminess to the sauce.

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – brightens everything up.

• 4 slices cooked bacon – for that smoky, savory crunch.

• 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced – adds texture and an earthy note.

• 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese blend – gives you the perfect gooey melt.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.

• Salt and pepper – simple seasoning that brings it all together.

• Fresh parsley, chopped – a fresh, vibrant garnish.

💡 Tip: Cook your bacon and slice the mushrooms ahead of time — it makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to cook.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through while the cheese melts into that irresistible golden topping.

2. Make the sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. This creamy honey-mustard sauce is the heart of the dish — sweet, tangy, and rich. Set it aside while you prepare the chicken.

3. Sear the chicken.
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, just until golden brown. You’re not cooking it through yet — this step locks in the juices and adds flavor.

4. Assemble the dish.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Spoon the honey-mustard sauce evenly over each piece, coating them completely.

5. Layer the toppings.
Add the sliced mushrooms, top each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, and finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Don’t hold back — that cheesy layer is what makes it so indulgent.

6. Bake.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Finish and serve.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if you like, a light drizzle of the reserved honey-mustard sauce.

Notes for Perfect Results

• Pound the chicken to even thickness before searing — it ensures even cooking.

• Let it rest a few minutes before slicing, so the juices redistribute.

• For an extra touch, broil for 1 minute at the end to get that perfectly golden, bubbling cheese topping.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Once your kitchen smells like a steakhouse and the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken emerges bubbling and golden, the only question left is: what should you serve alongside it? This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but the right sides and drinks can take it to the next level.

Suggested Pairings

Sides:
You can’t go wrong with classic comfort-food sides. Try creamy mashed potatoes, baked potatoes with sour cream and chives, or roasted broccoli for a fresh, healthy balance.

Salads:
Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple garden salad for something light and refreshing. The crunchy greens cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon perfectly.

Starches:
For a hearty meal, serve it with buttered pasta, rice pilaf, or even garlic bread to soak up any extra honey-mustard sauce.

Drinks:
This dish pairs beautifully with sweet iced tea, a light beer, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Desserts:
End on a bright note with lemon bars, fruit salad, or chocolate mousse for balance.

💡 Tip: Serve your chicken on a warm plate and drizzle a little extra honey-mustard sauce on top for that restaurant-quality finish.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs without losing that signature flavor.

Kid-Friendly or Lighter Version

If you’re serving a younger crowd or watching calories, try these lighter tweaks:

• Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option.

• Cut back slightly on the cheese or use a reduced-fat blend.

• Add extra mushrooms or sautéed spinach for more nutrients and texture.
  These swaps keep the dish satisfying while making it a little gentler on the waistline.

Extra-Cheesy and Indulgent Version

When you’re craving full comfort, go all in:

• Combine Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Pepper Jack cheeses for a melty, spicy twist.

• Add caramelized onions for sweetness and a touch of smoked paprika to deepen the flavor.
  This version is all about cozy indulgence — a dish that feels like a big, cheesy hug on a plate.

Gluten-Free or Custom Option

It’s easy to make this recipe work for everyone:

• Ensure your mustard and condiments are gluten-free.

• Swap mushrooms for bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer different textures.

• Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier bite — just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs cook faster.

With these small changes, you can tailor this chicken to any taste or table.

Storage Instructions

Whether you’re meal-prepping or storing leftovers, this dish keeps its flavor beautifully with just a little care.

Room Temperature

Try to serve or refrigerate your cooked chicken within 2 hours. Because of the bacon, cheese, and sauce, it’s best not to leave it sitting out too long.

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. This helps the chicken stay moist and keeps the cheese and bacon crisp — much better than microwaving.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. For best results:

• Cool the chicken completely before wrapping.

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Reheat in the oven until warmed through and bubbly.

💡 Pro Tip: For a freshly-baked taste, sprinkle a little new cheese and bacon on top before reheating. It restores that irresistible, melty finish.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Every great recipe has a few little secrets that make all the difference, and Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken is no exception. These tried-and-true tips will help you recreate that restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen — juicy chicken, crisp bacon, and perfectly melted cheese, every single time.

• Pat the chicken dry before searing to get that irresistible golden crust. Moisture prevents browning, so a quick pat with paper towels is worth it.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear in batches if needed. Giving each piece space helps it brown beautifully.

• Sauté the mushrooms until they release their liquid and turn golden; this deepens their flavor and keeps the topping from turning soggy.

• Crisp the bacon separately before baking so it stays crunchy under the cheese.

• Always check the internal temperature — 165 °F (74 °C) is the sweet spot for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.

• Reserve a little honey-mustard sauce for serving. It doubles as a flavorful dip that ties everything together.

• Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.

• Use an oven-safe skillet if you want a one-pan meal with less cleanup.

• Finish with fresh parsley or chives to add color and brightness.

• For presentation, slice each breast diagonally to show off those gorgeous layers of sauce, bacon, and cheese.

These simple steps make your home version every bit as impressive as the steakhouse favorite.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken, try these similar comfort-style dinners on Creative Cookery:

• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne: A comforting dish mixing tender chicken, vibrant broccoli and creamy Parmesan-sauce penne

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Juicy chicken breasts and roasted baby potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan

• Classic Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A simple, family-friendly chicken and buttered noodle combo

FAQs

What is Alice Springs Chicken?

It’s a beloved Outback Steakhouse dish featuring chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, bacon, mushrooms, and melted cheese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for recreating that restaurant experience at home.

Why is it called “Alice Springs”?

The dish is named after the Australian town of Alice Springs, in keeping with Outback Steakhouse’s Aussie-inspired theme.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since they tend to cook faster.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the honey-mustard sauce for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble and bake — it’s a huge time-saver for busy evenings.

How do I reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to keep the bacon crisp and the cheese perfectly melty.

Can I skip the mushrooms?

Of course! You can substitute caramelized onions or bell peppers if you’d like something sweeter or crunchier.

How long does it take from start to finish?

From prep to plate, this dish takes about 40 minutes total — ideal for a weeknight dinner that still feels special.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Use a larger baking dish and extend the bake time by about 5–10 minutes. It’s a fantastic option for family gatherings or potlucks.

Conclusion

This Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence — juicy, tender chicken coated in sweet honey mustard, layered with savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and melty cheese in every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for company.

Pair it with a fresh salad or a side of creamy mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a complete steakhouse-style meal right at home. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your dinner rotation.

If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below, share a photo, or pin this recipe for later — your family will thank you for bringing restaurant-quality comfort to the dinner table.

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