Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish inspired by a popular menu item from Outback Steakhouse. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts marinated in a honey mustard sauce, topped with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. It’s a perfect dish for a special family dinner or a weekend treat. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, Alice Springs Chicken is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Alice Springs Chicken step-by-step.
Ingredients
Marinade Magic:
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard (Bonjour, French brands!)
- 1/2 cup honey (liquid gold)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (yes, mayo)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (a squeeze of lemon juice)
Chicken Symphony:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons butter (because butter makes everything better)
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (omit if you’re not a fungi fan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (liquid elegance)
- 4 slices bacon (crisped and chopped into 2-inch joyous fragments)
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or any cheese of your melty dreams)
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Mix Marinade Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Marinate Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the other half for later. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear Chicken:
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Bacon
- Cook Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and tender. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Bacon:
- In a separate skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into 2-inch pieces.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Assemble Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the oven-safe skillet or transfer them to a baking dish. Spoon the reserved marinade over the chicken.
- Top each chicken breast with the sautéed mushrooms, followed by the chopped bacon. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese generously over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Alice Springs Chicken hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Marinating: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the honey mustard sauce to penetrate the chicken.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture. You can also use turkey bacon if you prefer.
- Cheese: Colby Jack cheese melts well and adds great flavor, but feel free to use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you like.
Variations
Spicy Alice Springs Chicken
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
BBQ Alice Springs Chicken
- Add BBQ Sauce:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce with the marinade for a tangy twist.
Low-Carb Alice Springs Chicken
- Omit Mayo:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and reduce the amount of honey for a lower-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Mashed Potatoes:
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables:
- Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced plate.
With Salads
- With Garden Salad:
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette dressing.
- With Coleslaw:
- Pair with coleslaw for a crunchy and refreshing contrast.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- With Iced Tea:
- Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze Alice Springs Chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking? A: Yes, you can grill the marinated chicken breasts and then top them with cooked mushrooms, bacon, and cheese before serving.
Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of honey mustard, bacon, and cheese. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Alice Springs Chicken with your family and friends!
