Description

Alice Springs Chicken hails from the famed Outback Steakhouse, famous for its laid-back vibe and hearty Australian-inspired cuisine. This dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts, savory bacon, rich mushrooms, and a generous melting of Colby-Jack cheese, all drizzled with a honey mustard sauce that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, embodying flavors that are both familiar and exciting, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a weekend treat.

Imagine walking into your kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with the rich notes of sautéing chicken and earthy mushrooms wafting through the air. Preparing Alice Springs Chicken is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, bringing together family and friends around the dinner table to relish the experience of good food and great company. It’s an approachable recipe that even beginner cooks can master, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied and craving more.

So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a recipe that promises to deliver not only a delicious meal but also an enjoyable cooking experience. Whether you're whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend, Alice Springs Chicken will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
• 1/2 cup prepared mustard
• 1/4 cup pure honey
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into four portions
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Season All or your preferred all-purpose seasoning
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and cut in half
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (fresh, canned, or jarred)
• 3 cups Colby Jack cheese, finely shredded
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Substitutions and Variations:
• If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using Dijon mustard for a stronger flavor profile, or try a blend of different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. For the mushrooms, feel free to use fresh sautéed varieties for an earthy freshness instead of canned or jarred ones. Don’t have corn syrup? You can use maple syrup as a natural alternative that adds a unique twist to your sauce.

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the honey mustard sauce, as this will serve as a delicious accent to your chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the prepared mustard, pure honey, light corn syrup, and mayonnaise. Use a whisk to mix everything thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Pay attention to the consistency; if you prefer a sweeter or tangier sauce, feel free to adjust the amounts of honey or mustard to suit your taste.

Next, take your chicken breasts and gently coat them with the McCormick Season All. This step is essential in adding a base layer of flavor. If you have the time, consider letting the chicken marinate for about an hour in the refrigerator. This helps to lock in moisture and allows the seasoning to make its way into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your chicken is ready to go in, it will cook evenly and lock in all those delicious flavors.

In a non-stick skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes perfectly crisp. This process may take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, draining it on paper towels to rid it of excess fat. Leave a tiny amount of fat in the pan; it adds flavor to the chicken.

Next, in the same skillet, add the marinated chicken breasts. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the chicken on one side for about 5-7 minutes until it develops a lovely golden-brown crust. It's important not to flip it too soon; let it develop that deep, caramelized color first. Once browned, flip the chicken over and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side, until it's cooked through and the internal temperature registers at least 165°F (75°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, promptly remove it from the skillet and place it on a clean cutting board. Now comes the fun part. Generously drizzle the honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast. This not only adds flavor but also moisture, ensuring your chicken remains juicy.

Next, sprinkle your sliced mushrooms over the sauced chicken. Follow this with half of the crispy bacon slices, arranging them evenly for that perfect bite of flavor in every forkful. Lastly, generously cover the chicken with the finely shredded Colby Jack cheese, ensuring an even layer for that melty goodness.

Now, carefully place the chicken in your preheated oven. Allow it to bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has completely melted and is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

When the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the baking dish from the oven. Allow the chicken to cool for a few moments before plating. For an elegant finish, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the melted cheese, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Tips and Conclusion

To complement your Alice Springs Chicken, consider serving it with classic side dishes like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing garden salad. The crunch of the salad will contrast with the creamy cheese and succulent chicken beautifully. If you want to enhance the whole meal experience, pair it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect balance.

Should you have any leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring the chicken remains moist.
In creating Outback Steakhouse's Alice Springs Chicken, you're not just preparing a meal; you’re crafting an experience full of flavor and warmth. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese topped with the sweet and tangy honey mustard is bound to bring smiles to your family and friends.

This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it suitable for cooks of all levels. After you’ve tasted the result, you may find yourself coming back to it time and time again. If you enjoyed preparing this delightful dish and exploring the world of flavors, consider trying other recipes from our site, like our creamy pasta dishes, hearty stews, or creative dessert options. Keep the joy of cooking alive, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends or family who might enjoy a culinary adventure of their own! Happy cooking!