How To Make Alice Springs Chicken Recipe At Home

Have you ever craved the rich, savory flavors of a restaurant-quality meal but wanted to enjoy it from the comfort of your own kitchen? Alice Springs Chicken, a beloved dish inspired by Outback Steakhouse, is the perfect answer. This hearty recipe combines tender, pan-seared chicken breasts with crispy bacon or smoked turkey, sautéed mushrooms, and a melty blend of cheeses, all topped with a luscious honey mustard sauce.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply indulging in a cozy weeknight treat, this dish delivers a perfect balance of comfort and elegance. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home! Let’s dive in and recreate this Australian-inspired classic together.

What is Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s become a favorite on Outback Steakhouse menus—and for good reason! This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable. At its core, Alice Springs Chicken features juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a blend of gooey cheeses, all smothered in a creamy honey mustard sauce.

What makes it so special? It’s the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to replicate at home. This dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a comforting, memorable dining experience. Whether you’re an Outback Steakhouse fan or just discovering this gem for the first time, Alice Springs Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Plus, it’s versatile! Serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. This is a dish that brings everyone to the table—no passport to Australia required!

Key Ingredients

To make Alice Springs Chicken at home, you’ll need a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich, savory profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and juicy base. If they’re thick, consider butterflying or pounding them to ensure even cooking.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and locking in its natural juices.

For the Toppings:

• Smoked turkey slices: A lighter alternative to bacon that still provides a smoky, savory flavor. Opt for thinly sliced smoked turkey for best results.
• Mushrooms: Sliced and sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy balance to the dish.
• Cheese blend: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses melts perfectly, creating that iconic gooey topping.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
• Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick to the sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, smooth consistency.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle aromatic touch.

Optional Ingredients for Serving:

• Fresh parsley: Adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley not only enhances the visual appeal with its vibrant green hue but also infuses a delightful freshness to the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve on the side for a burst of brightness that complements the rich flavors.

Why These Ingredients Work

This combination of ingredients is carefully selected to balance flavors and textures. The savory chicken and bacon pair beautifully with the tangy honey mustard sauce, while the cheese and mushrooms add richness and depth. Together, they create a dish that’s satisfying and layered with flavor.

Pro tip: Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible to elevate the taste and make this homemade dish truly restaurant-worthy!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating Alice Springs Chicken at home is a rewarding experience that’s both fun and straightforward. With just a little prep and care, you’ll have a dish that rivals any restaurant meal. Follow these steps to achieve perfection:

1. Prep the Chicken

• Season the chicken: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it.

2. Sear the Chicken

• Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some olive oil.
• Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked—it will finish in the oven. Set aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Smoked Turkey and Mushrooms

• In the same skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
• Add slices of smoked turkey and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy and warmed through. Remove and set aside.
• Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized.

4. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together:
• 1/3 cup of honey
• 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Mix until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust the flavors if needed. Set aside half of the sauce for basting and the other half for serving.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Arrange the seared chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish or return them to the skillet if it’s oven-friendly.
• Spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast.
• Top with sautéed mushrooms, slices of smoked turkey, and a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve and Savor

• LAllow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain its juices.
• Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley to bring vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
• Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Pro Tip

For added smokiness, choose a high-quality smoked turkey that complements the other flavors in the dish. This swap keeps the dish flavorful while offering a lighter alternative to traditional bacon.

Enjoy your updated Alice Springs Chicken with a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on taste!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Mastering Alice Springs Chicken is all about the little details that elevate the dish from good to incredible. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get the best results every time:

1. Choose Quality Ingredients

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Organic or free-range chicken often yields juicier results.
• Swap out bacon for smoked turkey slices if you’re looking for a lighter, yet equally smoky, alternative. Smoked turkey adds a subtle depth of flavor while keeping the dish leaner.
• Shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a creamier texture.

2. Ensure Even Cooking

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook uniformly, avoiding dry or undercooked spots.
• Sear the chicken on medium-high heat to create a golden crust that locks in the juices.

3. Perfecting the Sauce

• Balance the honey mustard sauce by adjusting the ratio of honey to mustard according to your taste. A sweeter sauce complements the savory toppings, while more mustard adds tang.
• Make extra sauce! It’s so versatile and works as a delicious dip or drizzle for your side dishes.

4. Enhance the Flavors

• Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a subtle kick.
• Sauté the mushrooms in a bit of olive oil for a light and earthy flavor, especially if using smoked turkey instead of bacon.

5. Achieving Gooey, Melty Cheese

• Cover the dish with foil during baking to help the cheese melt evenly without over-browning.
• For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle a little more cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

6. Keep it Juicy

• Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

7. Experiment with Presentation

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Serve the chicken in individual skillets or plates to mimic a restaurant-style presentation.

8. Save Time with Prep

• Prepare the sauce and toppings (like cooking the smoked turkey and sautéing the mushrooms) ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.
• You can also marinate the chicken in a small amount of honey mustard sauce for a couple of hours before cooking to infuse it with flavor.

Pro Tip

If you’re short on time, use an air fryer for quick and even cooking of the chicken before assembling and baking the dish in the oven. This saves time while still delivering amazing results!

With these tips and tricks, your Alice Springs Chicken will be a showstopper every time—bursting with flavor and oozing with cheesy goodness, all while enjoying the lighter twist of smoked turkey. Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!

Variations of Alice Springs Chicken

The beauty of Alice Springs Chicken lies in its incredible versatility, making it a favorite for many! With just a few tweaks, you can customize this classic dish to suit dietary preferences, taste buds, or a creative flair in the kitchen. Here are some fun and practical variations to try:

1. Low-Carb Alice Springs Chicken

• Swap the honey mustard sauce: Use a low-carb version by substituting honey with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
• Replace the sides: Pair the chicken with roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or a crisp green salad to keep it low-carb and refreshing.

2. Vegetarian Alice Springs Chicken

• Go plant-based: Swap chicken breasts for thick slices of eggplant, portobello mushrooms, or even firm tofu as the base.
• Replace smoked turkey or bacon: Use plant-based bacon or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that smoky touch.
• Cheese options: Opt for dairy-free cheese blends for a fully vegan dish.

3. Spicy Alice Springs Chicken

• Add heat: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chipotle powder into the seasoning mix or sauce.
• Hot sauce drizzle: Finish the dish with a drizzle of your favorite spicy sauce for an extra kick.

4. Gluten-Free Alice Springs Chicken

• Check the sauce ingredients: Ensure your honey mustard sauce uses gluten-free Dijon mustard and mayonnaise.
• Thicken sauces naturally: If thickening is needed, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour.

5. Grilled Alice Springs Chicken

• Take it outdoors: Skip the skillet and oven by grilling the chicken breasts on a barbecue or grill pan. Brush the honey mustard sauce onto the chicken as it cooks for that signature flavor.
• Smoky perfection: Add the toppings (cheese, mushrooms, smoked turkey) after grilling and pop them under a broiler for melty, gooey goodness.

6. Air Fryer Alice Springs Chicken

• Speed things up: Use an air fryer to cook the chicken breasts until golden and juicy.
• Finish in the oven or air fryer: Once topped with cheese, mushrooms, and smoked turkey, transfer back to the air fryer for a quick melt.

7. Dairy-Free Alice Springs Chicken

• Cheese substitutes: Use dairy-free or nut-based cheese alternatives to create the same creamy topping.
• Sauce tweaks: Replace mayonnaise with a vegan-friendly option like avocado mayo or cashew cream.

8. Family-Style Alice Springs Casserole

• All-in-one meal: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and layer them in a casserole dish. Top with mushrooms, smoked turkey, honey mustard sauce, and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
• Great for sharing: This variation is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings!

Pro Tip

When experimenting with variations, always keep the core elements of the dish in balance—savory, smoky, creamy, and just a touch sweet. This ensures your version stays true to the essence of Alice Springs Chicken while catering to your preferences.

Let your creativity shine and adapt this recipe however you like! No matter how you spin it, Alice Springs Chicken is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

The Outback Experience at Home

Recreating the Outback Steakhouse experience at home is more than just following a recipe—it’s about bringing the essence of a warm, welcoming dining atmosphere to your table. Alice Springs Chicken is a cornerstone of that experience, combining hearty ingredients and bold flavors that capture the restaurant’s signature comfort food appeal.

Here’s how to elevate your at-home dining experience to match that of a cozy night out at Outback:

1. Set the Mood

• Table setting: Use rustic or wooden serving platters to echo the Outback vibe.
• Lighting: Dim the lights or add candles for a warm, intimate ambiance.
• Music: Play soft, upbeat tunes to create a casual yet inviting background.

2. Pair with Classic Sides

• Steakhouse-inspired sides: Serve your Alice Springs Chicken with a loaded baked potato, seasoned fries, or creamy mac and cheese for a true Outback-style meal.
• Healthy options: Pair it with steamed broccoli or a mixed green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

3. Add a Sweet Finish

• Wrap up your meal with a homemade dessert inspired by Outback’s menu, like a chocolate brownie sundae or a slice of cheesecake. These treats complement the hearty main dish and leave your guests with a lasting impression.

4. Create a Shared Experience

• Interactive meal prep: Involve family or friends in the cooking process by having them help assemble the toppings or prepare the honey mustard sauce.
• Serving style: Place the skillet or baking dish directly on the table and let everyone serve themselves, just like at a family-style restaurant.

Pro Tip

Add a little flair by printing out a simple menu for the evening. Include Alice Springs Chicken as the star of your Outback-inspired feast, along with your chosen sides and drinks. This small touch makes the experience feel extra special.

By focusing on these small details, you’ll not only enjoy the incredible flavors of Alice Springs Chicken but also recreate the charm and hospitality of an Outback Steakhouse meal. It’s the perfect way to transform a simple dinner into a memorable dining experience at home!

Conclusion

Alice Springs Chicken is great because it’s so adaptable. With its tender chicken base, smoky turkey or bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a blanket of melted cheese, all tied together with a creamy honey mustard sauce, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re recreating the Outback Steakhouse classic or adding your own personal twist, this recipe is guaranteed to impress family and friends.

The charm of Alice Springs Chicken stems from its exceptional versatility. It works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for a special occasion. Pair it with roasted veggies, a crisp salad, or buttery mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

And don’t forget: cooking at home allows you to customize every element. If you’re in the mood to explore more gourmet flavors, try pairing this recipe with something unique, like our Crab Brulee Recipe. The contrast of savory and indulgent dishes will take your dinner to the next level.

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, you have everything you need to bring the rich, satisfying taste of Alice Springs Chicken to your table. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Bon appétit!

How To Make Alice Springs Chicken Recipe At Home

Camellia

This creamy, cheesy Alice Springs Chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 6 slices smoked turkey or bacon
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

 

Prep the Chicken

• Season the chicken: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it.

Sear the Chicken

• Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some olive oil.
• Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked—it will finish in the oven. Set aside on a plate.

Cook the Smoked Turkey and Mushrooms

• In the same skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
• Add slices of smoked turkey and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy and warmed through. Remove and set aside.
• Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together:
• 1/3 cup of honey
• 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Mix until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust the flavors if needed. Set aside half of the sauce for basting and the other half for serving.

Assemble the Dish

• Arrange the seared chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish or return them to the skillet if it’s oven-friendly.
• Spread a generous layer of honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast.
• Top with sautéed mushrooms, slices of smoked turkey, and a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Savor

• LAllow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain its juices.
• Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley to bring vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
• Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Notes

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: (e.g., 450 kcal per serving)
• Fats: (e.g., 20g)
• Carbs: (e.g., 10g)
• Proteins: (e.g., 40g)

Pro Tip

For added smokiness, choose a high-quality smoked turkey that complements the other flavors in the dish. This swap keeps the dish flavorful while offering a lighter alternative to traditional bacon.

Enjoy your updated Alice Springs Chicken with a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on taste!

FAQ About Alice Springs Chicken

Cooking a new dish often comes with questions, and that’s perfectly normal! Here are some of the most common inquiries about making Alice Springs Chicken, along with helpful answers to guide you through the process:

Pro Tip:

If you have a specific question while cooking, don’t hesitate to make adjustments based on what works for you. This recipe is versatile and forgiving, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes and needs!

With these answers in mind, you’re ready to tackle Alice Springs Chicken like a pro. Happy cooking!