How to Make Alice Springs Chicken Like Outback Steakhouse

There’s something magical about a plate of Alice Springs Chicken. It’s the ultimate comfort food—a perfect medley of tender chicken smothered in honey mustard, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese that’s as gooey as your dreams. Originating from the famed Outback Steakhouse menu, this dish has become a flavor phenomenon, loved by foodies and casual diners. And while it might feel like you need a trip to the Australian outback (or just the nearest outlet) to satisfy this craving, here’s the good news—you can make it at home!

This blog takes you on an adventure through the history of Alice Springs Chicken, the secrets behind its flavor-packed profile, and step-by-step instructions to create this masterpiece in your kitchen. Grab your apron, folks—your Alice Springs Chicken expertise starts here.  

Outback Adventures: How Alice Springs Chicken Became a Flavor Phenomenon

“Alice Springs Chicken” conjures images of Australia’s rugged, sun-soaked landscapes. But make no mistake—this dish is a pure product of culinary genius. Born out of Outback Steakhouse’s knack for bold, playful flavors, Alice Springs Chicken represents everything the chain does best—comfort food with a touch of flair.

Why Alice Springs? Fun fact: Alice Springs is a remote town in the Australian Outback. While the dish isn’t a traditional Australian recipe, its name pays homage to the adventurous vibe of the land down under. Outback Steakhouse, known for its take on Aussie-inspired hits, crafted Alice Springs Chicken to deliver a one-two punch of flavors that’s nearly impossible not to love.

The dish took off due to its crowd-pleasing ingredients. Who can say no to chicken and bacon swimming under a layer of gooey cheese? Whether you’ve been to the restaurant ten times or just heard the legend, Alice Springs Chicken has become a favorite for its savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.

But here’s the kicker—while the dish might sound complicated, the beauty lies in its simplicity. Stick around, and you’ll learn how to whip this up like a pro with just a few supermarket staples.

Cheese, Please! The Melty Magic Behind Authentic Alice Springs Chicken

If you could crown one ingredient as the MVP of Alice Springs Chicken, it’s the cheese. Imagine pulling your fork through a cascade of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack—that’s the satisfaction we’re chasing here.

But wait, why two cheeses? Combining cheddar and Monterey Jack creates the perfect balance. Cheddar brings that sharp, tangy kick, while Monterey Jack adds creamy, melt-in-your-mouth vibes that make the dish irresistible. Alone, either cheese is excellent, but together? Pure culinary harmony.

Cheese Tips for Success  

1. Shred It Yourself  

Pre-shredded cheese might be convenient, but it’s often coated with anti-caking agents that hinder melting. Do yourself a favor and grab a block of cheese and a grater for that irresistible stretch factor.

1. Layer Strategically  

The order in which you stack your masterpiece matters. Add the sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon first, then pile on the cheese. This ensures that every bite is loaded with contrasting textures and flavor bursts.

1. Broil It Properly  

Once you’ve added the cheese, a quick trip under the broiler is key to achieving that golden, bubbly finish. Keep a close eye—cheese transforms from drool-worthy to burnt faster than you can say “Outback.”

Now, admit it—you already imagine the cheese pull as you slice into your homemade Alice Springs Chicken. Don’t worry, you’ll get there soon.

Marinade Mastery: Transforming Ordinary Chicken into Alice Springs Sensation

The backbone of any great Alice Springs Chicken is the tender and juicy chicken with a flavorful punch. But trust us, the secret lies in the honey mustard marinade. It’s the unsung hero that turns bare chicken breasts into restaurant-worthy bites.

The Science of a Great Marinade  

A great marinade doesn’t just sit on the surface—it penetrates the meat, infusing every bite with flavor. At the heart of our marinade is a sweet-and-tangy blend of honey, mustard, and spices. This combination adds a vibrant taste and helps lock in moisture so your chicken stays juicy.

Marinade Ingredients You’ll Need  

• 1/2 cup honey  
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard  
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (trust us, this adds richness)  
• A splash of fresh lemon juice  
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder  

Whisk these together in a bowl, pour over your chicken breasts, and mix them well. The longer you marinate, the better—the chicken will soak up all that good stuff!

Pro Tip: Marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. Tossing it all together in the morning ensures you’ll have dinner ready to wow.

Copycat Cooking: Nailing the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Vibe

Here’s where the magic happens—assembling and cooking your Alice Springs Chicken to mimic that tantalizing Outback Steakhouse version.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts  
• 6 slices of crispy bacon  
• 1 cup mushrooms, sautéed  
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese  
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese  
• Honey mustard sauce (use your marinade or whip up a fresh batch!)

Step-by-Step Assembly  

1. Sear the Chicken  

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear your marinated chicken breasts on medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side to lock in the flavors. Don’t thoroughly cook them yet; they’ll finish in the oven.

1. Layer with Love  

Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Add a generous layer of sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and that glorious mountain of shredded cheese.

1. Bake to Perfection  

Pop the dish in a 375°F oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1. Finish with a Drizzle  

Once out of the oven, drizzle some warm honey mustard over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Voila! You’ve just copycatted charm and flavor right from Outback Steakhouse’s menu.

Pandemic Pantry to Gourmet Plate:  

During the pandemic, many of us learned to get creative with what we had on hand. The beauty of Alice Springs Chicken is that it lends itself well to improvisation. Thought you didn’t have “fancy” ingredients? No problem.

Here’s how to make an elevated version using swaps:

• Chicken Breasts: Substitute whole thighs for a more succulent dish.  
• Cheese: Play with what you have! Swiss cheese or pepper jack can add fun twists to the classic.  
• Mushrooms: Out of fresh mushrooms? Canned may lack some texture but still bring solid flavor.  

Transforming your pandemic pantry into a gourmet feast comes down to technique. Sear your chicken with balanced flavors, and serve it up with confidence. Before you know it, you’ll be plating restaurant vibes right at your dining table.

Bringing It All Together  

Alice Springs Chicken is more than a dish—it’s an experience. From its adventurous origins to the alchemy of melty cheese and tangy marinades, it’s a prime example of comfort food. And now, you have the tools to recreate it perfectly at home.  

Do you have cravings yet? Fire up your stove, grab some chicken (and plenty of cheese), and start cooking! Trust us—it’s even better when you’re turning this Outback classic into the star of your kitchen.

Are you ready to bring the warmth of Outback Steakhouse into your home? Try this Alice Springs Chicken recipe, and tag us in your creations! Your path to culinary greatness starts now.