Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious and comforting meal, this Alice Springs Chicken Recipe is perfect for you. This copycat version of the popular dish from Outback Steakhouse features tender chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and a flavorful honey mustard sauce. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that will bring the taste of Australia to your dinner table!
What is Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken features juicy grilled chicken breasts that are seasoned, topped with bacon and cheese, and drizzled with a flavorful honey mustard sauce. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory experience that is both filling and satisfying.
Why is it Called Alice Springs Chicken?
The dish is named after Alice Springs, a remote town in Australia, evoking the essence of Australian cuisine. The Outback Steakhouse designed this dish to reflect the flavors and spirit of the Australian outback.
How to Prepare Alice Springs Chicken
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 (horizontally sliced in half) |
| Cooked bacon | 6 slices |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 2 cups |
| Honey Mustard Sauce | |
| Mayonnaise | 1/3 cup |
| Honey | 1 Tbsp |
| Stone-ground mustard | 2 tsp |
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
- Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together the ingredients for the honey mustard sauce. Spread a generous amount of the sauce over each chicken breast.
- Top the chicken with the Monterey Jack cheese and crispy bacon slices.
- Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, drizzling additional honey mustard sauce over the chicken if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken Dinner
- Quick Cooking: Use pre-cooked bacon to save time on preparation.
- Cheese Choice: Slice the Monterey Jack cheese instead of using grated cheese to ensure it melts evenly without drying out.
- Mushrooms: If you enjoy mushrooms, consider adding sautéed white button mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can also use drained and pre-sliced canned mushrooms for convenience.
- Side Dish Pairing: Serve with a microwaved baked potato or your favorite vegetable side to complete the meal quickly.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Value | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Protein | 44 g |
| Fat | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Potassium | 632 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 335 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Calcium | 289 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and assemble it in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
2. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
3. Can I substitute other types of cheese?
Yes! While Monterey Jack is traditional, feel free to use cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
To reduce calories, you can use leaner cuts of chicken, reduce the amount of cheese, or swap out the mayo in the honey mustard sauce for Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of the Outback right to your dinner table. With its juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese topped with a tangy honey mustard sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for both casual meals and special occasions, you can customize it to fit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Outback classic!