The Outback Steakhouse Chicken Recipe is a copycat version of the popular Alice Springs Chicken served at Outback Steakhouse. This delicious dish features juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with honey mustard sauce, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese. It’s a savory, satisfying meal that you can easily recreate at home. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Outback Steakhouse Chicken
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise until smooth. Set aside half of the sauce for serving and use the remaining half to marinate the chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, or until softened. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Assemble the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Top each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, a portion of sautéed mushrooms, and a generous amount of the shredded cheese blend.
- Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with the reserved honey mustard sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Outback Steakhouse Chicken
- Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to penetrate and results in juicier, more flavorful chicken.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy and tender.
Recipe Variations
- Grilled Version: Instead of searing the chicken on the stovetop, grill the marinated chicken breasts over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, then bake with the toppings.
- Spicy Honey Mustard: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with large portobello mushroom caps for a vegetarian twist. Marinate and cook the mushrooms as you would the chicken.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time, as thighs often take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the honey mustard sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a lighter option.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, for a well-rounded meal.
Outback Steakhouse Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for recreating the flavors of a restaurant meal at home. The combination of juicy chicken, savory bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese, all topped with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, makes for an unforgettable meal. This copycat recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with your loved ones!