The Best Recipe for Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

If you’ve ever craved that smoky, cheesy, honey-mustard-covered chicken from Outback Steakhouse, you’re not alone. This recipe for Alice Springs chicken brings that savory magic straight to your kitchen—no reservation needed. Juicy chicken breasts layered with sizzling bacon, sautéed mushrooms, a blanket of gooey cheese, and that famous tangy honey mustard sauce—yep, it’s all here. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or planning a weekend dinner, this Outback-inspired dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Discover great ideas like this one in our Easy & Delicious Chicken Cabbage Recipe, another flavorful favorite you can whip up with pantry staples.

In this guide, we’ll break down every step of the Alice Springs chicken recipe, from the key ingredients and homemade sauce to cooking techniques and side dish pairings. Let’s start by learning more about what makes this dish so iconic.

Introduction to Alice Springs Chicken

What Is Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs chicken is a restaurant-style dish that blends smoky, sweet, and savory flavors into one indulgent plate. Originating from the popular Outback Steakhouse menu, it features marinated grilled chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and honey mustard sauce. It’s a comforting, rich meal that balances protein, fat, and flavor like few other dishes.

Named after the remote Australian town of Alice Springs, this dish captures the hearty, rustic spirit of the Outback with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re a fan of grilled chicken recipes or simply love creamy sauces with a smoky twist, this dish is a must-try.

Origins: The Outback Steakhouse Connection

This dish rose to fame thanks to its spot on the Outback Steakhouse menu. Known for their bold flavors and Aussie-themed meals, Outback nailed the perfect balance between smoky bacon, sweet honey mustard, and savory chicken. Over time, fans of the restaurant wanted to recreate that experience at home—thus, the copycat recipe for Alice Springs chicken was born.

Today, dozens of versions exist online, but only a few hit the right notes in flavor, texture, and satisfaction. That’s why this recipe focuses on authenticity while giving you room to adjust based on your taste and dietary needs.

Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Juicy, Tender Short Ribs if you enjoy meaty, flavorful dinners with depth and richness.

Ingredients for the Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Must-Have Ingredients with Substitutions

Creating the perfect recipe for Alice Springs chicken starts with assembling the right ingredients. The dish blends sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, and each component plays a role in that signature Outback taste. Here’s what you need—and what you can substitute if you’re short on something.

You don’t have to stick with the exact cheeses Outback uses, but combining Monterey Jack with cheddar gives you the perfect melt and flavor balance. Likewise, while homemade honey mustard is best, you can use a good-quality store-bought option to save time.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Air Fryer Salmon Bites for a quick, crispy protein fix that’s also kid-approved!

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

While most recipes for Alice Springs chicken use boneless, skinless breasts, the real trick is in choosing cuts that stay juicy under high heat. Thicker chicken breasts work well when properly flattened or butterflied, which helps with even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Here’s a breakdown of chicken options:

• Chicken breasts: Classic, lean, and best for marinating. Be sure to pound them evenly for faster, uniform cooking.
• Chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful. If you’re okay with a slightly different texture, these make a great alternative.
• Tenders or strips: Perfect for a faster version of the dish—ideal if you’re short on time or serving kids.

Pro Tip: Marinate your chicken in honey mustard sauce for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you can). This locks in flavor and helps tenderize the meat for that restaurant-style juiciness.

Check out our Best Guide for Cooking Shaved Beef if you want more meaty dinner options with bold flavor and fast prep.

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken Step-by-Step

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

The secret to nailing the recipe for Alice Springs chicken lies in the marinade. That honey mustard base doesn’t just sit on top—it needs time to sink into the chicken, making it flavorful through and through. Here’s how to do it right:

Homemade Marinade:

• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a medium bowl until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or glass container and pour half the sauce over the chicken.
3. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

The remaining sauce will be used later for brushing and serving. This marinade gives the chicken its signature tangy-sweet flavor with just the right amount of zip.

Quick Note: Don’t skip the marination step. It’s crucial for getting that tender, flavorful texture you expect from a restaurant-quality Alice Springs chicken recipe.

Cooking the Chicken Perfectly Every Time

Once your chicken has soaked up all that delicious honey mustard flavor, it’s time to cook it. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking, the goal is golden brown outsides and juicy, moist insides.

Pan-Searing Method (Stovetop to Oven):

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
5. Top each piece with mushrooms, bacon, and shredded cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Grilling Option:

• Grill chicken on medium-high heat for about 6–7 minutes per side.
• Add toppings in the last few minutes and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Baking Only:

• Place marinated chicken directly in a greased baking dish.
• Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, then add toppings and return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes.

Internal temperature tip: Always check the thickest part of the chicken. A food thermometer ensures your recipe for Alice Springs chicken is both safe and juicy.

Don’t miss our Guide to Oven-Cooked Short Ribs for more fall-apart tender meat ideas perfect for special occasions.

Making the Signature Honey Mustard Sauce

Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe

The defining flavor of any great recipe for Alice Springs chicken is the sauce. Sure, the chicken, bacon, and cheese are stars, but it’s the honey mustard that ties it all together. Rich and tangy with just enough sweetness, this sauce is easy to make and elevates every bite.

Here’s how to whip up the Outback-style honey mustard sauce from scratch:

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard and honey until well blended.
2. Stir in the mayo and lemon juice. Add garlic powder if you want a kick.
3. Taste and adjust salt, or add more honey if you prefer a sweeter touch.
4. Refrigerate the sauce for 15–30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

This creamy, velvety sauce pairs perfectly with the savory elements of bacon and mushrooms, helping create that unmistakable Alice Springs chicken experience right at home.

Discover more flavor-packed dishes like our Roll Alaska Sushi Guide, a perfect smoky and creamy combo for seafood lovers.

Store-Bought vs Homemade: Which is Better?

You might be tempted to skip a step and buy honey mustard off the shelf. But if you’re serious about mastering the recipe for Alice Springs chicken, making your own is absolutely worth it. Here’s a quick comparison:

Verdict: Go homemade if you want the authentic Outback-style experience. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and truly elevates the dish. Once you try this version, you’ll never go back to bottled.

Looking for lighter sauce ideas? Explore our Smoked Cream Cheese Spread—it’s a low-carb, keto-friendly dip that’s perfect for pairing with meats and veggies.

Cheese, Bacon, and Mushroom Toppings Explained

Best Cheese for Alice Springs Chicken

When it comes to cheesy goodness, the recipe for Alice Springs chicken doesn’t hold back. Outback Steakhouse uses a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar to create a melt-in-your-mouth topping that’s both creamy and flavorful.

Let’s break down your cheese options:

Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged blends. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent melting smoothly. For the best Alice Springs chicken recipe, fresh is best.

Prepping Bacon and Sautéing Mushrooms

No recipe for Alice Springs chicken is complete without the savory crunch of bacon and the earthy richness of mushrooms. These toppings not only enhance the flavor—they add contrast in texture and aroma that brings the whole dish together.

Here’s how to prep them right:

Crispy Bacon Instructions:

1. Use thick-cut bacon for better flavor.
2. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. Drain on paper towels and crumble or leave in strips.

Sautéed Mushroom Tips:

• Use baby bella or white mushrooms for best texture.
• Sauté in olive oil or butter with a pinch of salt and a splash of chicken broth.
• Cook until golden brown, not soggy—this prevents the dish from becoming watery.

Flavor Combo Tip: Layer the bacon over the mushrooms just before adding cheese. This locks in the flavor and prevents bacon from losing its crisp in the oven.

These toppings take the recipe for Alice Springs chicken from good to unforgettable. Once baked, the layers of melted cheese, smoky bacon, and umami-rich mushrooms create a flavor bomb in every bite.

Oven-Baked or Pan-Seared? Cooking Methods Compared

How to Bake Alice Springs Chicken

If you’re after a hands-off, no-fuss method, baking is your best bet. It’s great for evenly cooking the chicken while melting the cheese perfectly. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

Baking Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place marinated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
3. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness.
4. While baking, prep your mushrooms and bacon toppings.
5. Remove chicken, top with mushrooms, bacon, and shredded cheese.
6. Return to oven and bake an additional 5–7 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Why it works:

• Even cooking without babysitting.
• Retains moisture thanks to gentle heat.
• Easy to make in large batches for family dinners.

If you’re making a weeknight meal, baking makes the recipe for Alice Springs chicken stress-free and consistent.

How to Cook It on the Stovetop or Grill

For those who prefer crispier edges and smoky flavor, pan-searing or grilling brings out the best in the meat while adding charred notes.

Pan-Searing (Skillet Method):

1. Heat a cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high.
2. Sear each marinated chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
3. Lower heat, add mushrooms and bacon directly to pan or transfer to baking dish.
4. Add cheese, cover, and cook on low for 5 minutes until cheese melts—or finish in oven.

Grilling Instructions:

• Preheat grill to medium-high.
• Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until internal temp hits 165°F.
• In final 2 minutes, add toppings, close lid to melt cheese.

Why it works:

• Adds caramelized crust for texture contrast.
• Infuses chicken with a smoky char (especially grilled).
• Perfect for summer meals or BBQ cookouts.

Pro Tip: If grilling, wrap bacon in foil and pre-cook separately to avoid flare-ups. Then add as topping.

Whether you’re baking or searing, the key to mastering the recipe for Alice Springs chicken is monitoring the temperature and layering the toppings at the right time. And remember—always let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Learn more about texture-perfect proteins in our Salmon Patties Recipe Guide—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and ready in minutes.

What to Serve with Alice Springs Chicken

Delicious Side Dishes That Pair Well

When serving the recipe for Alice Springs chicken, the toppings bring richness and depth—so the sides should balance that out. You want sides that complement the honey mustard sauce and savory toppings without overpowering the dish.

Here are some popular options:

Pro Tip: Use sides that can be prepped while the chicken is baking—this saves time and keeps everything hot when served.

Don’t miss our Sourdough Loaf Pan Guide if you want to serve up a homemade bread to mop up that delicious sauce.

Salad, Bread, and Low-Carb Pairings

Looking to lighten things up? No problem. The richness of the recipe for Alice Springs chicken actually pairs beautifully with fresh, crunchy, low-carb sides.

Low-Carb Pairing Ideas:

• Cauliflower Mash: A great swap for potatoes.
• Zucchini Noodles: Soaks up sauce without the carbs.
• Avocado & Tomato Salad: Fresh, creamy, and keto-friendly.
• Grilled Asparagus: Add a smoky note without the heaviness.

Best Bread Options:

• Keto Garlic Rolls
• Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
• Almond Flour Biscuits (great gluten-free option)

Great Salad Pairings:

• Spinach salad with red onions, walnuts & feta
• Arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette
• Classic Caesar with shaved Parmesan

Whether you’re hosting dinner or just meal prepping for the week, pairing the recipe for Alice Springs chicken with the right side elevates the entire experience.

Looking for quick dessert pairings? Try our Pineapple Cake Mix Ideas for something sweet, moist, and incredibly easy to make.

Is Alice Springs Chicken Healthy?

Nutritional Breakdown and Calorie Count

The classic recipe for Alice Springs chicken is rich, satisfying, and full of flavor—but it’s also loaded with cheese, bacon, and a sweet honey mustard sauce. While it’s not exactly a “light” dish, it can still fit into a balanced diet—especially when paired with healthier sides and served in moderate portions.

Estimated Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

• Calories: 680–750 kcal
• Protein: 48–55g
• Fat: 40–48g
• Carbohydrates: 12–18g
• Sugar: 9–12g
• Fiber: 1–2g
• Sodium: 1100–1300mg

These numbers are based on standard ingredients and full toppings (cheese, bacon, sauce). The chicken itself provides solid lean protein, but the bacon and cheese contribute most of the fat content.

So, is it healthy? It really depends on your goals. As a high-protein, low-carb meal, it works great for keto or low-sugar diets when modified slightly.

Healthier Ingredient Swaps

Luckily, you can enjoy a healthier version of the recipe for Alice Springs chicken with a few simple tweaks—without giving up the signature taste.

Other Healthy Tips:

• Grill instead of fry or bake to reduce oil usage.
• Skip or reduce the cheese layer to cut back on saturated fat.
• Serve it over greens or cauliflower rice instead of heavy starches.

If you’re managing cholesterol, sodium, or sugar, these swaps make the recipe for Alice Springs chicken both delicious and guilt-free.

Don’t miss our guide on Healthy Air Fryer Recipes that help you keep meals crispy and clean.

Storing, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips

How to Store Leftovers Properly

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, the recipe for Alice Springs chicken holds up surprisingly well when stored correctly. The key is keeping the toppings intact while preserving moisture.

Storage Instructions:

• Let the chicken cool to room temperature.
• Store each piece in an airtight container with a layer of parchment or wax paper to prevent toppings from sticking.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you’re planning to freeze it:

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• Place in freezer-safe bags and label the date.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Note: The cheese and mushrooms may lose a bit of texture after freezing but the flavor holds up well.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

No one wants dry chicken or rubbery cheese. Here’s how to reheat your Alice Springs chicken leftovers like a pro.

Oven Method (Recommended):

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes to re-melt the cheese.

Microwave Method (Quick Option):

• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel.
• Heat for 60–90 seconds, checking halfway through.

Air Fryer Method (Best for Crisp):

• Set to 350°F.
• Heat for 6–8 minutes, checking for cheese melt and internal temp.

Meal Prep Tip:
Prepare extra servings and store the sauce separately. This way, you can reheat the chicken and add freshly warmed sauce on top to revive the dish completely.

The recipe for Alice Springs chicken is actually perfect for meal prep—it reheats beautifully and keeps its rich flavor even days later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Make This Alice Springs Chicken Recipe Tonight

If you’re craving a restaurant-style dinner without the price tag, this recipe for Alice Springs chicken is your golden ticket. It’s packed with juicy, tender chicken, crispy bacon, mushrooms, and two types of melted cheese—all tied together with that sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce.

Whether you’re baking it for a weeknight dinner or grilling it for a backyard BBQ, it’s easy to prep, totally satisfying, and even better as leftovers.

Looking for more bold and delicious recipes? Try our Easy Dinner Chicken Cabbage Recipes for another satisfying meal that’s quick and full of flavor.

The Best Alice Springs Chicken Recipe (Outback Copycat)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

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Description

This juicy, cheesy, bacon-loaded Alice Springs chicken recipe is a copycat of the popular Outback Steakhouse favorite. Made with a creamy honey mustard sauce and tender grilled chicken breasts, it’s the perfect restaurant-style meal you can make at home in under 45 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled or in strips)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
2. Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half the marinade over the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top with sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, and cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Serve with extra reserved honey mustard sauce on the side.

Notes

• Cheese Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than packaged shreds.
• Bacon Option: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter version.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well for 4 days in the fridge.
• Reheating: Use oven or air fryer to preserve texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking, Pan-searing
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: recipe for Alice Springs chicken, Outback copycat chicken, honey mustard chicken, cheesy chicken dinner, easy chicken bake