Alice Springs Chicken

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Golden, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, Alice Springs Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings steakhouse charm right to your dinner table. This savory dish is known for its juicy chicken breasts smothered in honey mustard sauce, loaded with melted cheese, and topped with crispy bacon. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make at home.

Originally made famous by Outback Steakhouse, this dish has found a permanent place in home kitchens because of its irresistible combination of sweet, smoky, and cheesy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a weekend dinner or looking for a way to level up your weeknight chicken routine, Alice Springs Chicken delivers a restaurant-worthy experience in every bite.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the flavorful layers of Alice Springs Chicken, make sure your kitchen is prepped with the right tools. The essential items include:

• Cast iron skillet or oven-safe frying pan: Crucial for getting a good sear on the chicken and finishing it in the oven without switching cookware.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken breasts without piercing them and losing juices.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect internal temp of 165°F.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Necessary for prepping bacon and slicing chicken, cheese, and toppings.
• Whisk & mixing bowl: Helps you blend the honey mustard sauce into a smooth and flavorful base.

Each tool plays an important role in maximizing flavor and keeping things efficient. Using oven-safe cookware allows a seamless transition from stove to oven, while a meat thermometer guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.

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Ingredients for the Alice Springs Chicken

Each ingredient in this recipe adds a layer of flavor that makes Alice Springs Chicken stand out. Here’s a closer look at why every component matters:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The hearty base of the dish, perfect for absorbing flavor and holding up to generous toppings.
• Seasoning salt & black pepper: Simple yet essential, these elevate the chicken with a well-balanced seasoning.
• Olive oil: Helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken, locking in moisture.
• Thick-cut bacon: Adds smoky, crispy texture and savory flavor that defines the dish.
• Fresh mushrooms (optional): Bring a soft, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Colby Jack cheese: Melts perfectly and offers a mild tangy creaminess.
• Honey: Brings a subtle sweetness to balance the bold flavors.
• Dijon mustard: Gives the honey mustard sauce its tangy kick.
• Mayonnaise: Provides richness and helps the sauce cling to the chicken.

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How To Make the Alice Springs Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Set aside part of the sauce for serving.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with seasoning salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden on each side. It doesn’t need to cook through yet.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms

In the same skillet or separately, cook chopped thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. If using mushrooms, sauté them in the bacon drippings until tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken

Brush the seared chicken breasts with the honey mustard sauce, then top with sautéed mushrooms (if using), shredded Colby Jack cheese, and crispy bacon bits.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 6: Serve with Extra Sauce

Drizzle the reserved honey mustard sauce over the chicken right before serving for an extra flavor punch.

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How to Serve and Store Alice Springs Chicken

Alice Springs Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with sides that complement its rich, savory flavor. Roasted baby potatoes, garlic green beans, or a crisp side salad work beautifully. For an extra indulgent option, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that honey mustard sauce.

For leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken or separate the cheese.

You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese is best for Alice Springs Chicken?

Colby Jack is the traditional choice because of its smooth melt and mild flavor, but cheddar or Monterey Jack can be great substitutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble everything ahead, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is there a substitute for the honey mustard sauce?

If you’re not a fan of honey mustard, a ranch and barbecue blend can offer a similar creamy-sweet profile.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Smoked turkey or crispy pancetta work as flavorful alternatives if you’d like a lighter or slightly different take.

Can I make this dish in an air fryer?

You can partially cook the chicken in the air fryer, but for best results with melted cheese and toppings, finish it in the oven or use an oven-safe skillet.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures juicy and safe-to-eat meat every time.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting chicken favorites:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with creamy layers of ham and cheese.
• One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken with Potatoes & Green Beans for a no-fuss, all-in-one meal.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for slow-cooked flavor with minimal effort.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that tastes like a cozy Sunday dinner.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you’re craving restaurant-style indulgence.

And for even more chicken recipes and inspiration, check out my Pinterest board here: Life With Olivia Pinterest.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go all-in with mushrooms, or skip them? Did you try it with a different cheese or spice it up a bit?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all in this flavor journey together.

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