The smell of grilled chicken, mushrooms, and crispy bacon fills the air. It takes you to the Australian Outback. Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a classic crowd-puleaser, with flavors of the wild and adventure.
When you eat the chicken, the honey mustard, cheese, and herbs blend on your tongue, leaving a flavor that keeps you craving more.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the iconic Alice Springs Chicken at home. You’ll discover its origins, essential ingredients, and how to cook it to impress your loved ones with this Australian dish. This recipe calls for turkey bacon, but feel free to swap it for the bacon of your choice.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a popular menu item featuring grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, crispy turkey bacon, and melted cheese, all glazed with a delicious honey mustard sauce.
- The recipe can be easily replicated at home, and takes less than 30 minutes of preparation.
- Marinating the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for at least 2 hours is crucial for optimal flavor infusion.
- Baking the chicken at 400°F for approximately 10 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures a perfectly cooked chicken.
- The dish can be customized to personal preferences, such as using chicken thighs instead of breasts or omitting mushrooms.
The History Behind Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse
The Alice Springs Chicken has been a favorite at Outback Steakhouse for years. Its unique flavors and textures delight many, and this dish is a big part of what makes Outback Steakhouse known for its Australian-themed food in America.
Origins of the Signature Dish
The Alice Springs Chicken started when Outback Steakhouse first opened. The founders aimed to create a dish that captured the essence of the Australian Outback. They were inspired by Alice Springs and wanted to share its flavors with American diners.
Why It Became a Menu Favorite
The dish is loved for its mix of grilled chicken, mushrooms, bacon, and Monterey Jack cheese. The honey mustard sauce adds a unique flavor boost. It’s a big hit because it’s tasty and filling, with a hint of Australian flavor.
Cultural Impact on Australian-Themed Dining
The Alice Springs Chicken has greatly influenced Outback Steakhouse’s Australian-themed dining. It’s a key dish that defines the brand. It helps create a casual, welcoming atmosphere and boosts the restaurant’s reputation for outback-inspired food in the U.S.
Must-Have Ingredients for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
The secret to a mouthwatering Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse is in the ingredients. This steakhouse favorite combines flavors for a dish that’s truly exceptional.
The recipe begins with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are the key to the dish’s flavors. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise, with a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice
In this recipe, turkey bacon is the primary choice for its lighter, slightly smoky flavor, though you’re welcome to use any bacon you prefer to make it your own. This delicious dish is topped with sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon, then finished with a gooey layer of melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses. Together, these toppings enhance and seal in the dish’s rich flavors.
Using these ingredients, you can make the Alice Springs Chicken at home. It brings the taste of Outback Steakhouse right into your home.
How to Prepare the Signature Honey Mustard Sauce
The Outback Steakhouse’s famous Alice Springs Chicken has a secret ingredient: honey mustard sauce. This flavorful sauce is made with Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and a touch of lemon juice. It’s the key to the dish’s authentic taste, inspired by Australian cuisine.
Sauce Base Components
The honey mustard sauce is made from just four ingredients:
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh lemon juice
For a spicy twist, use hot honey instead of regular honey. It gives the sauce a nice burst of flavor.
Mixing and Storage Tips
To make the sauce, Stir all the ingredients together in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great with the Alice Springs Chicken or other dishes.
Customization Options
This honey mustard sauce is very versatile. You can adjust the sweetness with corn syrup or maple syrup. You can also change the heat level by adding more hot honey. Customize it to your liking for the perfect flavor with the Alice Springs Chicken.
With the honey mustard sauce, the Alice Springs Chicken becomes a standout dish. It highlights the bold flavors of Australian cuisine. Make the sauce the hero of your dish.
Preparing and Marinating the Chicken
To make the famous Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken, start by preparing the chicken. Pound the grilled chicken breast to about 3/4 inch thick. This guarantees even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy. You can also slice the chicken breasts horizontally to achieve the same result.
Then, season the seasoned chicken with salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning. This adds tasty flavors to the meat. After seasoning, marinate the chicken. Pour half of the honey mustard sauce over it, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours to let the flavors mix well.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 4 |
| Salt and Pepper | To Taste |
| Honey Mustard Sauce | 1/2 recipe |
By preparing and marinating the chicken right, you’ll get the grilled chicken breast and seasoned chicken full of Outback Steakhouse’s signature flavors, making for an amazing dining experience.
How to Cook Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken
Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite for its combination of savory and sweet flavors. To make it at home, use these expert tips for the best results.
Proper Cooking Temperature
To cook the chicken perfectly, start by searing it in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Then, move the chicken to a 400°F oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Make sure it reaches 165°F with an instant-read thermometer.
Timing Guidelines
- Sear the chicken breasts in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to a 400°F oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For thicker chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Professional Techniques
To make your Alice Springs Chicken taste like it’s from the restaurant, try these expert techniques:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness for consistent cooking.
- Marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours, to infuse maximum flavor.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to sear the chicken, then move it straight to the oven for easy cooking.
By using these expert tips, you can enjoy the same delicious outback steakhouse alice springs chicken that’s a hit at Outback Steakhouse.
Mushroom and Turkey Bacon Preparation Techniques
Creating the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken starts with preparing mushrooms and turkey bacon. This step boosts the dish’s flavor and adds a luxurious touch. It’s a key part of this casual dining signature dish.
Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove dirt without adding too much moisture. Then, slice the mushrooms thinly and sauté them in butter over medium heat. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and golden.
To get the turkey bacon just right, you can cook it in a skillet or bake it in the oven. Cooking in a skillet means turning the turkey bacon often until it’s crispy. Baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes also works well, but watch it to avoid burning. Feel free to use your preferred type of bacon if turkey bacon isn’t your favorite.
The amount of turkey bacon you use is up to you. For a lighter dish, use one slice per chicken breast. But for a richer taste, go for two slices per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| White Button Mushrooms | 8 oz | Cleaned with a damp paper towel, sliced thin, sautéed in butter for 7-10 minutes |
| Turkey Bacon | 2 slices per chicken breast | Cooked in a skillet or baked in the oven until crispy |
Mastering the art of sautéed mushrooms and crispy turkey bacon will take the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken to the next level. It turns this casual dining signature dish into something truly special. Feel free to use your preferred type of bacon if you like.
Cheese Selection and Melting Methods
Outback Steakhouse’s steakhouse favorites shine with the Alice Springs Chicken. This dish is famous for its cheese and how it’s melted. It adds a special touch to the Outback menu.
Best Cheese Combinations
Outback uses Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese for the Alice Springs Chicken. Monterey Jack makes it creamy, while Cheddar adds a tangy taste. You can also try Colby Jack for a similar flavor.
Melting Techniques for Perfect Coverage
- Shred the cheese for even melting. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often has anti-caking agents that can interfere with the melting process.
- Layer the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken, mushrooms, and turkey bacon before baking. This ensures that the cheese melts completely and creates a uniform, gooey topping.
- Bake the dish in a 400°F oven until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to seamlessly incorporate with the other components, resulting in a cohesive and indulgent dish.
Choosing the right cheese and melting it right can make your dish taste like Outback Steakhouse’s. It’s all about the cheese and how it’s melted.
Plating and Presentation Tips
Make your Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken stand out by focusing on plating and presentation. Serve it on a warm plate to maintain the ideal temperature. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Be creative with your plating. You can drizzle more honey mustard sauce over the chicken or offer it on the side for dipping. Pair the Australian cuisine-inspired dish with sides like roasted veggies, garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or green beans. Choose based on the occasion and what you like.
By paying attention to how it looks and choosing the right sides, you can make this casual dining experience special. Your guests will remember and enjoy this meal.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken has key ingredients like boneless chicken breasts and honey. It also includes Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Mushrooms, bacon, Monterey Jack cheese, and Cheddar cheese are also important. You might also need butter for sautéing mushrooms and parsley for garnish.
How do you make the signature honey mustard sauce?
To prepare the honey mustard sauce, mix Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. For a kick, use hot honey. This sauce is used for marinating and as a dip.
How should the chicken be prepared and marinated?
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to 3/4-inch thickness or halve them. Season with salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning. Marinate in half of the honey mustard sauce for 2 to 24 hours for optimal flavor.
What is the proper cooking method for Alice Springs Chicken?
Cook the chicken in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 4 minutes per side. Then, bake in a 400°F oven for 10 minutes or until it reaches 165°F.
How should the mushrooms and bacon be prepared?
Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Sauté them in butter for 7-10 minutes until golden. Crisp the bacon in a skillet or oven until it’s golden and crunchy.
What cheese combination is best for Alice Springs Chicken?
Use Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese for the best taste. You can also try Colby Jack. Shred the cheese for even melting and spread it over the chicken, mushrooms, and bacon before baking.
How should the dish be plated and served?
Serve the Alice Springs Chicken on a warm plate with chopped parsley for color and flavor. Drizzle more honey mustard sauce over it or serve it on the side. Pair it with green vegetables and mashed potatoes or a baked potato for a hearty meal.
Tried this for our family dinner and it was a hit!! will def make it again!