If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, chances are you’ve heard of their famous Alice Springs Chicken—a sizzling plate of tender chicken breast layered with smoky bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and drizzled with honey mustard. It’s rich, savory, and satisfying—basically everything you want in a comfort-food classic. But did you know you can make this restaurant-style favorite right at home?
This article dives into the mouthwatering world of Alice Springs Chicken. We’ll break down what makes it so irresistible, reveal its key ingredients and marinade secrets, guide you step-by-step through the cooking process, and share tips for making it healthier or pairing it with the perfect side dishes. You’ll even find out how to store leftovers, reheat without losing flavor, and answer some of the most-asked questions from fans of this dish.
Don’t miss our 25 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes for more ideas on making weeknight meals exciting!
Jumo to:
What Is Alice Springs Chicken?
The Origin of Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse introduced Alice Springs Chicken as part of their menu inspired by Australian-themed cuisine. Despite the name, the dish isn’t a traditional Australian recipe—it’s named after the town of Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory, perhaps to reflect the rustic, hearty character of the dish.
The meal itself screams indulgence, offering a savory blend of grilled chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese, all crowned with a drizzle of tangy honey mustard sauce. It’s served sizzling hot on a skillet and has become one of the chain’s most iconic entrées.
Why It’s a Fan-Favorite: Flavor and Texture Profile
There’s a reason why this chicken dish keeps diners coming back. The blend of sweet, salty, creamy, and umami flavors hits all the right notes. The chicken breast is juicy, the bacon adds a salty crunch, the mushrooms bring earthy richness, and the cheese melts everything together into a gooey, delicious bite.
The real star, though? The honey mustard sauce. It cuts through the richness and balances the dish with a slight tang and sweetness. Pair that with grilled textures and bold seasoning, and you’ve got an all-time dinner classic.
Check out Easy & Delicious Chicken Cabbage Recipes if you’re looking to balance this meal with a lighter veggie side!
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Components of Alice Springs Chicken
To make an authentic Alice Springs Chicken at home, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that mirror what you’d find at Outback Steakhouse. Here’s what goes into this flavor-packed meal:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | The protein foundation—boneless & skinless |
| Honey Mustard Sauce | The flavor glue that binds sweet and tangy notes |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | Earthy, juicy balance to the richness |
| Bacon | Adds a smoky, savory crunch |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | Melts beautifully, offering creamy texture |
| Cheddar Cheese | Adds a sharp, bold cheesy finish |
| Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika) | Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor |
This combination creates the perfect storm of textures—crispy bacon, juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and tender mushrooms.
Looking for inspiration? Try Shaved Beef Steak – The Ultimate Guide for another hearty protein-packed meal idea!
The Secret to the Marinade Flavor Explosion
The secret sauce (literally) behind the flavor of Alice Springs Chicken is the marinade, which is actually just a deeper version of the honey mustard used on top. Here’s what typically goes in:
- Dijon Mustard: Sharp and tangy base
- Honey: Natural sweetness to balance the mustard
- Mayonnaise: Adds body and creaminess
- Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Depth of flavor
- Paprika: Slight smokiness
This marinade not only works as a coating but also penetrates the chicken when it’s left to rest for a few hours, making it juicy and flavorful all the way through.
Discover great ideas like How to Smoke Cream Cheese at 250 to add smoky richness to your table spread!
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken at Home
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions (Grill or Oven)
Making Alice Springs Chicken at home is easier than you think. Here’s a simple guide that works for either the grill or oven—your choice.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup honey mustard (½ cup for marinade, ½ cup for topping)
- 8 slices bacon
- 1½ cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or dish. Add ½ cup honey mustard, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best). - Prepare the Bacon & Mushrooms
In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Set aside on paper towels. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms in a bit of bacon grease or olive oil until golden brown. Set aside. - Cook the Chicken
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until internal temp hits 165°F.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F. Sear chicken in a hot skillet (2 minutes per side), then bake for 20 minutes.
- Assemble the Toppings
Place chicken on a baking sheet (or keep in skillet if oven-safe). Top with mushrooms, bacon slices, and a generous handful of both cheeses. - Melt & Serve
Bake or broil for another 5–7 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles. Drizzle remaining honey mustard on top. - Serve Hot
Plate up your Alice Springs Chicken with your favorite sides and dig in!
Don’t miss our Easy & Delicious Chicken Cabbage Recipes for a fresh veggie pairing.
Alice Springs Chicken Marinade: Explained
What’s in the Marinade and Why It Works
The marinade is the soul of Alice Springs Chicken. It’s not just about flavor—it’s about transforming the texture of the meat so it stays juicy, tender, and infused with a savory-sweet kick.
Here’s what typically goes into a homemade honey mustard marinade for this dish:
| Ingredient | Role in the Marinade |
|---|---|
| Dijon Mustard | Brings tang and a touch of spice |
| Honey | Adds natural sweetness and caramelization |
| Mayonnaise | Adds creaminess and helps emulsify the mix |
| Lemon Juice | Brightens the flavor and tenderizes the meat |
| Garlic Powder | Offers depth and warmth |
| Onion Powder | Enhances the umami flavor |
| Paprika | Introduces a hint of smokiness |
Why this combo works so well:
- Sweet meets savory: The honey contrasts beautifully with mustard’s spice
- Tang softens the chicken fibers: Lemon juice and vinegar start to “break down” the muscle structure
- Oil-based mayo locks in moisture
The result is meat that’s seasoned throughout, not just on the surface, and tender with every bite.
How Long Should You Marinate for Best Results?
When it comes to marinating Alice Springs Chicken, timing matters. Here’s what to aim for:
| Marinating Time | Result |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Mild flavor, good for quick meals |
| 2–4 hours | Ideal flavor absorption |
| Overnight (8–12 hrs) | Maximum tenderness and depth of flavor |
Important tip:
Always marinate in the refrigerator, never on the counter. And if using lemon juice or vinegar, avoid marinating more than 12 hours, as it could make the chicken mushy.
Check out our 25 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes to discover more great ways to use marinated chicken!
Sides That Go Well with Alice Springs Chicken
Classic Side Pairings: Potatoes, Veggies, and More
The rich and savory profile of Alice Springs Chicken deserves to be paired with sides that either complement or balance its bold flavors. Whether you’re going for something hearty or light, here are the most-loved side dishes that work like magic:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy texture that blends beautifully with the sauce |
| Steamed Broccoli | Adds a fresh crunch to balance the rich cheese |
| Seasoned Rice Pilaf | Light and fluffy with a buttery finish |
| Roasted Asparagus | Earthy and bright—cuts through the bacon & cheese |
| Buttered Corn on the Cob | Naturally sweet and easy to prepare |
| Classic Baked Potato | A steakhouse staple with lots of topping potential |
Want to keep things truly authentic? Outback serves their Alice Springs Chicken with steak fries—thick-cut potato wedges lightly seasoned and crispy on the outside.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options to Try
Trying to lighten things up or go low-carb? You’re in luck—there are plenty of sides that offer big flavor without the carbs:
- Cauliflower Mash – Creamy and filling without the starch
- Zucchini Noodles – A veggie-based side that’s great for soaking up sauce
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy edges, caramelized flavor
- Avocado Cucumber Salad – Cool, crunchy, and refreshing
- Garlic Green Beans – Simple, fast, and full of fiber
- Creamed Spinach – Rich and velvety, a great keto match
These sides bring out the smoky, cheesy richness of the chicken without competing with it.
Don’t miss our Shaved Beef Steak – The Ultimate Guide for another hearty meal with perfect side pairings!
How Alice Springs Chicken Compares to Other Chicken Dishes
Alice Springs Chicken vs Grilled Chicken – What’s the Difference?
At first glance, Alice Springs Chicken might just look like grilled chicken with toppings—but don’t be fooled. Here’s how it stacks up against a typical grilled chicken breast:
| Feature | Alice Springs Chicken | Grilled Chicken Breast |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, smoky, cheesy, and tangy | Mild, customizable based on seasoning |
| Toppings | Bacon, mushrooms, cheeses, honey mustard | Usually served plain or with herbs/spices |
| Marinade | Creamy honey mustard | Often olive oil, lemon, garlic-based |
| Cooking Method | Grilled or baked with toppings added after | Grilled or pan-seared with minimal add-ons |
| Visual Appeal | Golden, cheesy, loaded | Clean, minimal presentation |
While both options are delicious, Alice Springs Chicken is for those craving a more indulgent, layered meal, whereas grilled chicken is often preferred for simplicity or lean eating.
What Sets It Apart from Other Copycat Recipes?
There are plenty of restaurant copycat chicken recipes out there, but Alice Springs Chicken hits differently. Here’s why:
- Sweet + Savory Harmony
The blend of honey mustard and bacon isn’t something you find in your everyday chicken dish—it gives both contrast and richness. - Layers of Texture
From gooey cheese to crispy bacon to tender mushrooms, every bite has complexity. - Bold, Aussie-Inspired Branding
Even though it’s not authentically Australian, the Outback theme gives it a rustic, down-to-earth vibe that’s comforting and nostalgic. - Homestyle Meets Restaurant Quality
You get the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal with the indulgence of a steakhouse entrée.
Looking for something more adventurous? Discover How to Smoke Cream Cheese at 250 for an ultra-creamy side or appetizer idea!
Nutrition, Calories, and Allergen Info
Nutritional Breakdown per Serving
Alice Springs Chicken isn’t exactly light fare—but it’s protein-rich and filling, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner. Here’s a general idea of the nutritional values per serving (based on a single chicken breast with toppings and sauce):
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720–780 cal |
| Protein | 45–50g |
| Total Fat | 45g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 12–15g |
| Sugars | 9–10g |
| Sodium | 1100–1250mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
The dish is high in protein and flavor but also rich in fat and sodium—mostly from the cheese, bacon, and honey mustard. If you’re watching your intake, portions and smart sides can make a big difference.
Is Alice Springs Chicken Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free?
Let’s break it down:
- ✅ Gluten-Free (With Modifications):
The base ingredients—chicken, bacon, cheese, mushrooms, and homemade honey mustard—are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure:- Your honey mustard is GF-certified
- No cross-contamination occurs during prep
- Skip any wheat-based sides (like rolls or fries)
- ❌ Not Dairy-Free:
This dish contains cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mayonnaise, which are dairy-based. For a dairy-free version:- Use plant-based cheeses
- Sub in dairy-free mayo
- Check labels on your mustard and honey sauces
- ❗ Nut-Free:
Great news—there are no nuts in traditional Alice Springs Chicken recipes, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Want a lighter variation? Don’t miss our 25 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes to explore fresh, clean twists on comfort food classics.
Reheating and Storing Leftovers
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Reheating chicken—especially one loaded with cheese, sauce, and bacon—can be tricky. Done wrong, and you’ve got dry meat and rubbery cheese. Done right, and it tastes just as good as day one.
Here are the best methods for reheating Alice Springs Chicken:
1. Oven (Best Method)
- Preheat to 350°F
- Place chicken in an oven-safe dish
- Add a splash of chicken broth or cover with foil to retain moisture
- Heat for 15–20 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F
2. Air Fryer
- Set to 325°F
- Heat for 5–8 minutes, checking halfway through
- Great for re-crisping the bacon and melting the cheese evenly
3. Microwave (Quickest but Least Recommended)
- Place on a microwave-safe plate
- Cover with a damp paper towel
- Microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent drying
- Expect some texture loss in the bacon and cheese
Pro Tip: Always reheat toppings with the chicken—don’t separate them. That’s what keeps the flavors intact.
How Long Can You Store It in the Fridge or Freezer?
You’ll be glad to know that Alice Springs Chicken stores beautifully if packed right.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days in an airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months (wrap tightly in foil and freezer bags) |
Freezing Tips:
- Freeze individual portions for quicker reheating
- Let it cool completely before freezing
- Label with the date so you don’t forget
Want more make-ahead meal ideas? Don’t miss our Easy & Delicious Chicken Cabbage Recipes that freeze and reheat like a dream.
FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken
What is Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse?
Alice Springs Chicken is one of the most iconic dishes at Outback Steakhouse. It features grilled chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese, and drizzled with honey mustard sauce. It’s a hearty, layered entrée that balances smoky, cheesy, and sweet flavors—perfect for meat lovers.
What goes well with Alice Springs Chicken?
This rich chicken dish pairs well with:
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Seasoned rice
Crispy steak fries
For lighter meals, try cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, or a fresh garden salad.
Does Alice Springs Chicken have a distinct flavor?
Yes, it’s very distinct. The combination of smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, melty cheese, and tangy honey mustard gives it a sweet-meets-savory flavor explosion. It’s not your average grilled chicken—it’s indulgent, bold, and completely satisfying.
What are the ingredients in Alice Springs Chicken marinade?
The honey mustard marinade typically includes:
Dijon mustard
Honey
Mayonnaise
Lemon juice or vinegar
Garlic and onion powder
Paprika
This not only flavors the chicken but also keeps it moist and tender during cooking.
How much is the Alice Springs Chicken at Outback?
Prices may vary by location, but as of 2025, it typically costs around $17 to $19 per entrée. Making it at home is a more affordable—and often more flavorful—alternative.
What is Outback Steakhouse famous for?
Outback is best known for:
Its Aussie-themed menu and branding
The iconic Bloomin’ Onion appetizer
Steak and grill entrees like ribeyes and sirloin
Fan-favorites like Alice Springs Chicken
A casual, fun dining atmosphere with big portions
Alice Springs Chicken – The Best Outback Copycat Recipe
This Alice Springs Chicken recipe is a savory, cheesy, bacon-loaded Outback Steakhouse favorite you can recreate at home. Juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with honey mustard, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melty cheese—comfort food at its finest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked / Grilled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup honey mustard (½ cup for marinade, ½ for topping)
- 8 strips bacon
- 1½ cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a ziplock bag with ½ cup honey mustard. Refrigerate and marinate for 2 to 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms in olive oil or bacon grease until golden.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (or preheat grill to medium-high).
- Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken on both sides (2–3 minutes per side), then transfer to a baking dish.
- Layer chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bacon strips, and cheeses.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Drizzle with remaining honey mustard before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra juiciness, butterfly thick chicken breasts before marinating.
- For keto-friendly: use sugar-free honey mustard and pair with low-carb sides.
- Leftovers store well for 3–4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.