Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Inspired by Outback Steakhouse
Table of Contents
Are you craving the flavors of Outback Steakhouse’s famous Alice Springs Chicken? We’ve got you covered! This guide will share a delicious copycat recipe. It will make your taste buds feel like they’re in the Outback.
Get ready for juicy chicken breasts marinated in a honey mustard blend. They’re topped with crisp bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. This dish is a favorite on the Outback menu.
Key Takeaways
- Learn the story behind Outback Steakhouse’s signature Alice Springs Chicken dish
- Discover the essential ingredients and kitchen tools needed to recreate this restaurant-quality meal at home
- Master the art of preparing the perfect honey mustard marinade
- Explore techniques for selecting and preparing the chicken breasts
- Uncover the secrets to cooking the bacon and sautéing the mushrooms to perfection
- Understand how to achieve the perfect cheese melt topping
- Elevate your presentation with plating and garnish suggestions
The Story Behind Outback’s Famous Alice Springs Chicken
The Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse is a favorite for many. But, have you ever wondered how it became so popular? Let’s explore the story of this Australian-inspired dish.
Origins of the Signature Dish
The Alice Springs Chicken was introduced in the late 1980s. It was inspired by Australia’s Outback, known for its bushcraft and food traditions.
The dish combines grilled chicken with a honey mustard marinade. It also has sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. This mix of flavors and textures quickly won over fans.
Why It Became a Restaurant Favorite
- The Alice Springs Chicken was a hearty, satisfying meal. It fit perfectly with Outback Steakhouse’s Australian theme.
- Its mix of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, along with its rich toppings, made it irresistible.
- The Alice Springs Chicken was a standout dish. It made Outback Steakhouse stand out from other casual dining places.
Years later, the Alice Springs Chicken remains a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. It delights customers with its comforting flavors and unique style. This dish is a must-try for those who want a taste of the Australian Outback.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
To recreate the renowned Alice Springs Chicken at home, you’ll need the proper ingredients. At the center are juicy chicken breasts, which are the base of the dish. You also need a tasty honey mustard marinade, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and lots of melted cheese.
Let’s look at the key parts that make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts – Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and plump. This ensures the dish is tender and juicy.
- Honey Mustard Marinade – A mix of honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices. It gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste.
- Bacon – Crispy, smoky bacon brings a delightful crunch and rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy, umami-rich taste that goes well with the other flavors.
- Cheese – A layer of melted cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, keeps the dish moist and adds a creamy finish.
With these ingredients, you can make the recipe for alice springs chicken in your kitchen. Savor the flavors that have made Outback Steakhouse’s Alice Springs Chicken a beloved classic.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make the perfect Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll need some key tools. You’ll need cookware, measuring tools, and prep tools. Let’s make sure you have everything to make this dish easily.
Recommended Cookware
Start with a sturdy, oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan. It helps cook the chicken evenly and gets a nice sear. You’ll also need a baking sheet or oven-safe dish for baking the chicken and toppings.
Measuring and Prep Tools
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- A sharp chef’s knife for cutting mushrooms and chicken
- A cutting board for chopping and slicing safely
- A meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature
Cooking Accessories
- A sturdy spatula or a pair of tongs is essential for flipping and handling the chicken.
- A whisk or fork for mixing the honey mustard marinade
- A basting brush for applying the marinade to the chicken
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy baking sheet cleanup
With these tools, you’re ready to make the alice springs chicken recipe inspired by Outback Steakhouse.
| Item | Purpose |
| Oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan | Searing and cooking the chicken |
| Baking sheet or oven-safe dish | Baking the chicken and toppings |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurately portioning ingredients |
| Chef’s knife and cutting board | Prepping the mushrooms and chicken |
| Meat thermometer | Ensuring proper internal temperature |
| Spatula or tongs | Flipping and transferring the chicken |
| Whisk or fork | Mixing the honey mustard marinade |
| Basting brush | Coating the chicken with marinade |
| Aluminum foil or parchment paper | Lining the baking sheet for easy cleanup |
Preparing the Honey Mustard Marinade
The secret to the iconic alice’s spring chicken from Outback Steakhouse is the honey mustard marinade. This sauce adds a sweet and savory taste to the chicken. It also keeps the meat tender and juicy. Follow these steps to make the perfect marinade for your recipe for alice springs chicken.
Start by getting the ingredients: honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Measure them carefully for the best flavor.
- In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to the bowl.
- Whisk everything together until the marinade is smooth and even.
To make a great alice’s spring chicken, marinate the chicken in this sauce for at least 30 minutes. Or, marinate it for up to 4 hours for even more flavor. Always refrigerate the chicken during marinating to keep it safe.
“The honey mustard marinade is the backbone of the alice springs chicken recipe, providing a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the juicy chicken perfectly.”
How to Select and Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Creating the perfect Alice Springs Chicken starts with choosing and preparing the chicken breasts. A few simple steps can make your Outback Steakhouse-inspired dish a hit. You’ll get juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs well with other tasty ingredients.
Choosing Quality Chicken
Start by picking fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Look for breasts that are plump, firm, and without any discoloration or bruises. Choose organic or locally sourced chicken for better texture and taste.
Proper Trimming Techniques
To get the chicken ready for marinating and cooking, trim it properly. Use a sharp knife to cut off any extra fat or connective tissue. This makes the surface clean and even. Also, pound the chicken breasts to the same thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay moist.
- Remove any visible fat or connective tissue from the chicken breasts.
- Place the breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
| Chicken Breast Characteristics | Ideal Qualities |
| Appearance | Plump, firm, and free of discoloration or bruising |
| Source | Organic or locally sourced for optimal texture and flavor |
| Trimming | Remove excess fat and connective tissue, pound to even thickness |
By carefully choosing and preparing your chicken breasts, you’re on your way to making a delicious Alice Springs Chicken. It will be just as good as the famous version from Outback Steakhouse.
Step-by-Step Alice Springs Chicken Instructions
Creating the iconic Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse at home is easy. Just follow these easy steps. You’ll get the perfect mix of flavors and textures that everyone loves.
Start by placing your marinated chicken breasts on a lightly greased grill or baking sheet. Grill them for 5-7 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. This will make sure they’re fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Or, bake them in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes.
After cooking the chicken, it’s time to add the toppings. Spread the sautéed mushrooms evenly over the chicken. Then, place crispy bacon slices on top, making sure each piece covers the chicken. Finally, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese all over.
Put the chicken back on the grill or in the oven. Let the cheese melt until it’s golden and bubbly, about 5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
Your recipe for alice springs chicken is now ready. Serve it up and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fancy look. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, for a complete meal.
Mushroom and Bacon Topping Guide
To make your alice’s spring chicken or alice springs chicken recipe even better, a great mushroom and bacon topping is key. Learning to cook crispy bacon and sauté fresh mushrooms can turn your dish into something amazing.
Cooking Perfect Bacon
To get the perfect bacon topping, follow a few steps. Choose thick-cut bacon for the best taste and texture. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the bacon slices in a single layer, without overlapping. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until it’s crispy and golden. Let the bacon drain on a paper towel-lined plate, and it’s ready to top your alice springs chicken.
Sautéing Mushrooms
For the mushroom topping, pick fresh, tasty mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster.Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth and slice them evenly. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt a tablespoon of butter or olive oil.
Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re tender and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder to add more flavor.
By following these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious mushroom and bacon topping. It will perfectly match the flavors of your alice’s spring chicken or alice springs chicken recipe. Enjoy the tasty mix of crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms, making your dish even more flavorful and satisfying.
Perfecting the Cheese Melt
The Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken is famous for its gooey, golden cheese. Getting the cheese just right is key to making this dish at home. Here are some tips to make sure your alice springs chicken has a delicious cheese topping every time.
Cheese Selection
The cheese you pick is very important. For the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken, use shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. These cheeses melt well, making a creamy topping.
Melting Method
- Preheat your oven to about 400°F (200°C) for quick and even melting.
- Put the shredded cheese over the cooked chicken breasts, covering them all.
- Bake in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Timing is Key
Getting the cheese melt timing right is important. You want it hot and gooey, but not burnt. Watch the chicken closely in the oven. Take it out when the cheese is melted and has a golden crust.
| Cheese Melt Stages | Ideal Timing |
| Cheese starts to melt | 1 minute |
| Cheese is fully melted | 2 minutes |
| Cheese develops a golden-brown crust | 3 minutes |
Mastering the cheese melt will make your own Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken a hit. It’s a dish that will impress anyone.
Plating and Presentation Tips
Making your Alice Springs Chicken look good is as key as making it taste great.Thoughtful plating and presentation can elevate a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. Here are some tips to make your Alice Springs Chicken stand out.
Garnish Suggestions
Garnishes not only make your dish look better but also add flavor and texture. Consider enhancing your Alice Springs Chicken with these garnishes:
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and herbaceous notes
- Thinly sliced green onions or chives for a delicate onion flavor and crunchy texture
- Toasted sliced almonds or crispy fried onions for a satisfying crunch
- Dollops of cool sour cream or tangy crumbled feta cheese to balance the richness
Side Dish Pairings
Choose side dishes that complement the flavors of your Alice Springs Chicken. Here are some great options:
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes: The creamy, savory potatoes pair beautifully with the chicken’s honey mustard and bacon-mushroom topping.
- Grilled or sautéed asparagus: The bright, crisp asparagus provides a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.
- Caesar salad: The cool, crunchy salad makes a refreshing accompaniment to the hearty main dish.
- Buttered biscuits or dinner rolls: These tender, fluffy breads soak up the delicious sauces and juices from the alice springs chicken recipe.
By focusing on presentation and side dish pairings, you can make your outback steakhouse recipes shine. This will create a memorable alice springs chicken recipe experience.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After enjoying your homemade Alice Springs Chicken, you might have leftovers. To keep your dish tasting great, follow these easy storage and reheating tips.
First, let the Alice Springs Chicken cool down completely. Then, put it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. This way, the chicken, mushrooms, and cheese will stay fresh.
When you’re ready to eat your recipe for alice springs chicken again, reheat it. You can use the oven or microwave for this.
To reheat in the oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Put the alice’s spring chicken in a dish, covered with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully heated through and the cheese is melted. For the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals until it’s warm all the way through.
FAQ
What is the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken?
The Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite dish. It has juicy chicken breasts, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and a creamy honey mustard sauce.
Where does the name “Alice Springs Chicken” come from?
The dish is named after Alice Springs in the Australian Outback. This town inspired the creation of this signature item at Outback Steakhouse.
What are the key ingredients in the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, bacon, mushrooms, honey mustard sauce, and melted cheese.
What kitchen tools and equipment do I need to make Alice Springs Chicken at home?
You’ll need a skillet or baking dish, measuring tools, a sharp knife, and cooking accessories. These include a meat thermometer and tongs.
How do I make the honey mustard marinade for the chicken?
Mix honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, garlic, and seasonings for the marinade. Thoroughly mix and marinate the chicken for maximum flavor.
How should I prepare the chicken breasts for the Alice Springs Chicken recipe?
Choose high-quality, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts. Trim excess fat, pound to even thickness, and marinate in honey mustard sauce before cooking.
What is the best way to cook the Alice Springs Chicken?
Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through. Then, top with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese for the Outback Steakhouse taste at home.
How do I cook the bacon and sauté the mushrooms for the toppings?
Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain it on paper towels.Sauté the mushrooms in butter or oil until they are tender and golden.
How can I ensure the cheese melts perfectly on the Alice Springs Chicken?
Opt for high-quality melting cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Bake or broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a gooey finish.
What are some tips for plating and serving the Alice Springs Chicken?
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a nice presentation. Serve with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How should I store and reheat leftover Alice Springs Chicken?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop until hot. Be careful not to overcook.