Perfect Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken
Ever tasted something that brought back memories of warmth and laughter? The Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken does just that. It combines honey mustard, bacon, and melted cheese over tender chicken. This mix sends a wave of emotions, reminding you of a great night out.
What if you could make this magic happen at home? This copycat recipe is a tribute to comfort food. It promises to bring joy and satisfaction whenever you need it.
With a bit of effort, you can bring Outback Steakhouse into your kitchen. Imagine the smell of sizzling chicken, smoked bacon, and melted cheese. All this is smothered in a tangy honey mustard sauce. This recipe is about creating moments of warmth and connection.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is a key dish on the Outback Steakhouse menu. It showcases Australian inspired cuisine. The dish features juicy chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and a blend of Colby-Monterey Jack shredded cheese.
The dish is known for its mix of textures and flavors. The chicken, bacon, and mushrooms create a memorable taste. A honey mustard sauce adds a sweet and tangy touch, making it a favorite.
This dish represents the variety of tastes in Australian cuisine. It’s a beloved choice on the Outback Steakhouse menu. From start to finish, Alice Springs Chicken offers a satisfying experience for food lovers.
The History Behind Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken
Outback Steakhouse started in 1988 in Tampa, Florida. Bob Basham, Chris T. Sullivan, Trudy Cooper, and Tim Gannon founded it. They wanted to offer a casual dining experience with Australian flavors.
Today, Outback Steakhouse has over 1,000 locations worldwide. It’s a big name in American dining.
Alice Springs Chicken is a standout signature dish at Outback Steakhouse. It combines Australian flavors with American tastes. The dish has chicken, mushrooms, bacon, and cheese, all with a honey mustard sauce.
The dish was made to offer a memorable dining experience. It’s become a favorite, along with the Bloomin’ Onion and Outback Special Steak.
Creating Alice Springs Chicken shows Outback Steakhouse’s commitment to quality. It blends traditional flavors with modern tastes. This approach keeps Outback Steakhouse popular for families and individuals.
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken
The Alice Springs Chicken is a hit because of its main ingredients. It has boneless chicken breasts, fresh mushrooms, and crispy bacon. These are mixed with cheeses and a homemade honey mustard sauce. You can also add optional ingredients to make it even more special.
Main Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 ½ to 2 pounds, pounded to ¾-inch thickness
- Grey Poupon Dijon mustard: 1 cup
- Honey: 1 cup (regular or spicy for a kick)
- Mayonnaise: ¾ cup (regular or light)
- Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
- Sliced mushrooms: 8 ounces
- Thick bacon slices: 6 slices
- Colby jack cheese: 1 cup
- Creole/Cajun seasoning blend: 1 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s
Optional Ingredients
- Thinly sliced yellow onion: 1 cup
- Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Additional bacon or mushrooms for topping
- Spicy honey for an extra zing
Using these ingredients, you’ll make a delicious Alice Springs Chicken. For a healthier option, try grilled chicken or crispy chicken tenders. This dish is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests, whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the perfect Alice Springs Chicken takes a few key steps. This guide will show you how to make it, from marinating to baking. Each step is important for the dish’s flavor and texture.
Marinating the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes. Mix together:
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Put all ingredients in a bowl. Coat two large chicken breasts, about two pounds. Let the chicken soak up the flavors while you get ready for the next steps.
Cooking the Chicken
Grill or cook the chicken on the stovetop on medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 5 minutes. Ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. This makes the chicken juicy and fully cooked.
Layering and Baking
After cooking the chicken, it’s time to layer and bake. Here’s how:
- Prepare Ingredients: While grilling, cook bacon in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 400°F until crispy. Sauté sliced baby bella mushrooms for 5 minutes, then add broth and cook for 8-10 minutes more.
- Layer the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms, then crispy bacon slices on top.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses over the chicken, mushrooms, and bacon.
- Baking: Put the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake until the cheese melts and the dish looks and tastes great.
Follow this guide to make delicious Alice Springs Chicken. Enjoy it with your loved ones. Here’s a quick table of key steps:
Step | Description |
---|---|
Marinating | Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes using a simple marinade. |
Cooking | Grill chicken for 5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F |
Layering | Layer cooked chicken with mushrooms, bacon, and cheese. |
Baking | Bake at 375°F until cheese is melted and bubbly. |
Making the Honey Mustard Sauce
The honey mustard sauce plays a crucial role in defining the flavor of Alice Springs Chicken It adds a sweet and tangy flavor. This homemade sauce lets you make the Outback Steakhouse taste at home.
Ingredients for the Sauce
To make this tasty recipe, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra zest)
Mixing the Sauce
Here’s how to mix the honey mustard sauce:
- In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Whisk until it’s smooth and even.
- Taste and adjust the flavors. Add more honey or mustard if you like.
- Put the sauce in a container with a tight lid. Chill it until you’re ready to use it.
With this easy homemade sauce recipe, your Alice Springs Chicken will impress everyone. It shows off your cooking skills.
Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
To make Alice Springs Chicken like a restaurant at home, pay close attention to details. Marinating the chicken well is key. It adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Use boneless skinless chicken breasts, seasoning salt, and olive oil for the best flavors.
Choosing the right cheese is also important. Mix Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese for a creamy, flavorful topping. Cooking bacon until crispy adds a nice crunch. Aim for 8 to 10 minutes for the perfect crispiness.
Sautéing mushrooms until golden brown is crucial. This step, taking about 6 minutes, boosts their flavor and texture. Layering these elements on the chicken ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.
“To further enhance the flavor profile, using the honey mustard sauce generously can make a significant difference. Ensure you evenly spread it over the chicken for balanced taste.”— Food Expert
For a lighter version, try the Skinny remake of the Alice Springs Chicken. It has 264 calories and 9 grams of fat per serving. This is much less than the original Outback Steakhouse version, which has 756 calories and 47 grams of fat.
Here’s a comparison of the Original and Skinny remake:
Component | Original | Skinny Remake |
---|---|---|
Calories | 756 kcal | 264 kcal |
Fat | 47 grams | 9 grams |
Bacon | Regular | Oscar Meyer Center Cut |
Cheese | Regular Cheddar & Monterey Jack | Reduced-Fat Cheddar |
Always cook the chicken to 160ºF to ensure it’s safe and juicy. Small changes in how you prepare and what you use can make a big difference. Following these kitchen tips will help you make perfect Alice Springs Chicken every time.
Substitutions and Variations
Customizing recipes like Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken is easy. You can make it fit different diets and tastes by using different ingredients and toppings. This way, you can create unique versions that you’ll love.
Alternative Ingredients
Changing the cheese is a simple way to modify the recipe. Instead of Colby Jack, try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella. Each cheese brings a special flavor.
- Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs for a juicier taste. Cook them until they hit 165°F, about 10 to 15 minutes in the oven.
- Vegetable Mix: Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Sauté them with mushrooms for extra taste and health.
- Mustard Variations: Spice up the honey mustard sauce with stone-ground or spicy brown mustard. It gives a new flavor twist.
Additional Toppings
Adding toppings to your Alice Springs Chicken makes it even better. It’s a chance to get creative and enjoy new flavors. Here are some ideas:
- Extra Bacon: Add more bacon for a richer taste. It adds a smoky, crispy touch.
- Avocado Slices: Avocado brings a creamy contrast. It’s great for adding healthy fats.
- Jalapeños: Sliced jalapeños add spice and crunch. Place them on top before baking.
Variation | Effect | Additional Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Chicken Thighs | Juicier texture | None, still 10-15 minutes |
Vegetable Mix | Extra flavor and nutrients | Additional 5-7 minutes for sautéing |
Mustard Variations | Different flavor profiles | None |
Extra Bacon | More indulgent | None |
Avocado Slices | Creamy contrast | None |
Jalapeños | Spicy element | None, add before baking |
Serving Suggestions
Adding the right side dishes and garnishes can make your meal better. Here are some great ideas to make your Alice Springs Chicken taste and look amazing.
Side Dishes
Choosing the right sides for Alice Springs Chicken is key for a great meal. Here are some tasty options:
- Roasted Vegetables: Try oven-roasting carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting match for the savory chicken.
- Crisp Salad: A fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber is a refreshing choice.
- Baked Potato: Top a baked potato with sour cream and chives for a tasty side.
- Roasted Broccoli: This side is both healthy and tasty, adding a green touch to your meal.
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can make your dish look and taste better. Here are some ideas to enhance your Alice Springs Chicken:
- Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh herbal taste.
- Sliced Green Onions: These add crunch and a mild onion flavor.
- Shredded Colby-Jack Cheese: Extra cheese on top makes the dish even cheesier and more delicious.
These suggestions will make your meal complete and enjoyable. Whether you like healthy greens or rich potatoes, you’ll find the perfect match for your Alice Springs Chicken.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper food storage and reheating instructions are key to keeping leftover Alice Springs Chicken safe and tasty. Always store chicken in airtight containers to keep it fresh. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to stop harmful bacteria from growing.
This dish stays good in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, set your oven to 350°F and allow it to preheat. Place the chicken on a baking sheet, cover it with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
If you need to reheat it quickly, use the microwave. Heat it on medium power in one-minute bursts until it’s hot all the way through.
For longer storage, freezing is a good choice. Put the chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags, squeezing out air. Frozen chicken can last up to three months. Defrost the chicken in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its flavor and texture before reheating.
FAQ
Which key ingredients are used to prepare Alice Springs Chicken?
The main ingredients are boneless, grilled chicken breast, crispy bacon, and sautéed mushrooms. You also need a blend of cheeses and a rich honey mustard sauce.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with another type of meat?
Absolutely, chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts. This gives a different texture and flavor, making the dish unique.
What is the process for preparing the honey mustard sauce for Alice Springs Chicken?
To make the sauce, mix mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and a bit of lemon juice. Blend these until smooth for a flavorful condiment.
Which side dishes pair well with Alice Springs Chicken?
Good sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. These enhance the rich flavors of the chicken and make the meal better.
How should I store leftovers of Alice Springs Chicken?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. Eat within 3-4 days for best quality. Reheat properly to keep the texture and flavor.
Are there optional ingredients I can add to enhance the Alice Springs Chicken?
Yes, you can add onions or spicy honey for extra flavor. These options let you customize the dish to your taste.
What cooking tips can help achieve the perfect Alice Springs Chicken?
Key tips include marinating the chicken well and using the right cheese for melting. Also, cook the bacon just right. These details ensure the authentic taste.
How do I personalize Alice Springs Chicken to meet dietary preferences?
Personalize by swapping out ingredients like cheese or meat. Adding more veggies can also make it healthier.
What garnishes work well with Alice Springs Chicken?
Chopped parsley or sliced green onions are great garnishes. They add color and freshness, improving the dish’s look and taste.
What is the best method to reheat Alice Springs Chicken?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature for the best results. This keeps the dish’s texture and flavor. Microwaving can make it uneven and less tasty.