What is the Alice Springs Chicken at Outback? A Complete Guide

Have you ever taken a bite of something so delicious that you instantly wanted to know its secrets? That’s exactly what happens when you try the Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse. It’s juicy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with bold flavors that make it one of the most popular dishes on their menu.

But what makes it so special? Why do people keep coming back for more? And, most importantly, can you make it at home? In this article, we’ll uncover everything about this legendary dish, from its origins to how you can recreate it in your own kitchen. Let’s dig in!

Overview of Alice Springs Chicken

Alice Springs Chicken is a signature dish at Outback Steakhouse, a famous Australian-themed restaurant chain. It’s a grilled chicken breast topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, melted cheese, and drizzled with a rich honey mustard sauce. If that combination doesn’t make your mouth water, I don’t know what will!

Fun Fact: The dish is named after Alice Springs, a town in Australia known for its rugged landscape and unique wildlife.

The dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, thanks to the smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, gooey cheese, and the slightly tangy honey mustard sauce. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just love comfort food, this chicken dish is a must-try.

The Origins of Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse is famous for its hearty, flavorful dishes inspired by Australian cuisine. While Alice Springs Chicken isn’t a traditional Australian dish, it was created to fit the restaurant’s theme. The inspiration likely came from a mix of classic grilled chicken recipes combined with elements that Americans love—cheese, bacon, and honey mustard.

Over the years, it has become a fan favorite, often competing with their famous Bloomin’ Onion in popularity. Some diners even claim it’s the best chicken dish on the menu! If you’ve never tried it, you’re seriously missing out.

Why is Alice Springs Chicken So Popular?

Why do people keep ordering this dish over and over again? Here are a few reasons:

• It’s bursting with flavor: The combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• It’s protein-packed: If you’re looking for a high-protein meal, this dish is a great option.
• It’s comfort food at its best: The warm, gooey cheese and crispy bacon give it that homemade, cozy feel.
• It pairs well with almost anything: Whether you want mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a salad, Alice Springs Chicken fits right in.

Pro Tip: If you’re ordering this at Outback, ask for extra honey mustard sauce on the side—it takes the dish to a whole new level!

Ingredients That Make Alice Springs Chicken Irresistible

The magic of Alice Springs Chicken lies in its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in making it one of the most flavorful chicken dishes out there.

Did You Know? Colby Jack cheese is a mix of Colby and Monterey Jack, which melts beautifully over the chicken.

Secret to the Unique Honey Mustard Sauce

The honey mustard sauce is what truly sets Alice Springs Chicken apart from other chicken dishes. It’s not just a simple mix of honey and mustard; it’s a well-balanced blend of sweetness and tanginess that enhances the entire dish.

Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe

If you want to make this sauce from scratch, here’s a quick and easy recipe:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Simply whisk all the ingredients together until smooth, and you have a homemade version that tastes just as good—if not better—than the restaurant’s!

How Alice Springs Chicken is Prepared at Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse uses a simple yet effective cooking process to ensure every piece of Alice Springs Chicken is packed with flavor. Let’s break it down step by step:

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Marinate the chicken: The chicken breasts are marinated in honey mustard sauce to soak up the flavor.
2. Grill the chicken: The chicken is grilled until it’s juicy and slightly charred.
3. Sauté the mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are cooked in butter until tender.
4. Assemble the toppings: The grilled chicken is topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a generous amount of Colby Jack cheese.
5. Broil to perfection: The dish is placed under a broiler until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve with extra sauce: A side of honey mustard sauce is served for dipping.

Chef’s Tip: If you’re making this at home, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.

Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

Alice Springs Chicken may be incredibly delicious, but if you’re watching your diet, you might be wondering how it fits into your meal plan. Let’s take a look at its nutrition profile.

Calories and Macros of Alice Springs Chicken

Health Tip: Want to reduce calories? Try using turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, and a lighter honey mustard sauce.

Can You Make It a Healthier Option?

Yes! Here are some easy swaps:

• Use lean chicken breasts: Trim off excess fat to lower the calorie count.
• Swap the cheese: Use reduced-fat Colby Jack or a sprinkle of Parmesan for flavor.
• Go light on the honey mustard sauce: Reduce the amount or use Greek yogurt as a base.
• Choose turkey bacon: It has less fat but still gives a smoky flavor.

Pro Tip: Pair it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Common Problems When Making Alice Springs Chicken at Home

Cooking this dish at home is totally doable, but a few things can go wrong. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.

Why Does My Chicken Turn Out Dry? Solutions & Tips

One of the biggest challenges with chicken breast is keeping it juicy. If yours keeps coming out dry, try this:

• Marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
• Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer and cook until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let it rest: Always let your chicken sit for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

How to Get the Cheese to Melt Perfectly

Ever put cheese on your chicken only to have it sit there like a cold blanket? Here’s the trick:

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Broil it: Pop the chicken under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to get a gooey, bubbly top.
• Cover the pan: If broiling isn’t an option, cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat and melt the cheese.

Fixing a Bland Sauce – Enhancing the Flavor

If your honey mustard sauce tastes “meh,” try this:

• Adjust the sweetness: Add a little extra honey if it’s too tangy, or more Dijon mustard if it’s too sweet.
• Add garlic powder: A pinch of garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Use fresh lemon juice: It brightens up the sauce and balances the sweetness.

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken at Home

Now that you know the secrets, let’s get cooking! Here’s a **copycat Alice Springs Chicken recipe** that tastes just like the one from Outback.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken breasts with half of the honey mustard sauce. Cover and let it sit for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
2. Cook the bacon: In a pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Set aside on a paper towel.
3. Sauté the mushrooms: In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook the mushrooms until soft. Remove and set aside.
4. Grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
5. Assemble the toppings: Place the grilled chicken in an oven-safe dish. Top each piece with a slice of bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a generous amount of shredded cheese.
6. Broil to perfection: Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and enjoy: Drizzle extra honey mustard sauce on top and serve with your favorite sides!

Chef’s Tip: For extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken on a charcoal grill instead of a stovetop grill pan.

Variations and Customizations for Different Tastes

Want to tweak the recipe to fit your preferences? Here are some fun variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
• Keto-Friendly: Skip the honey mustard sauce or make a sugar-free version.
• Low-Calorie: Use turkey bacon and light cheese to reduce the fat content.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Alice Springs Chicken

This dish is already packed with flavor, but it pairs wonderfully with these sides:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or carrots)
• Mashed potatoes (creamy garlic or buttery mashed potatoes)
• Side salad with a light vinaigrette
• Sweet potato fries for a crispy and sweet contrast

Pairing Tip: A light Chardonnay or iced tea complements the flavors perfectly!

Alice Springs Chicken vs. Other Popular Chicken Dishes

With so many chicken dishes out there, you might be wondering how Alice Springs Chicken stacks up against other favorites. Let’s compare!

How It Compares to Outback’s Grilled Chicken on the Barbie

Outback Steakhouse offers another grilled chicken dish—**Grilled Chicken on the Barbie**. So, how do they differ?

Verdict: If you’re looking for something hearty and cheesy, go for Alice Springs Chicken. If you want a lighter, grilled option, choose the Chicken on the Barbie.

Alice Springs Chicken vs. Monterey Chicken – What’s the Difference?

Another popular dish that’s often compared to Alice Springs Chicken is **Monterey Chicken**, found at many restaurants like Chili’s.

• Monterey Chicken is also grilled but topped with BBQ sauce instead of honey mustard.
• It usually features **tomatoes** and **green onions**, giving it a fresh taste.
• Both dishes have **cheese and bacon**, but Monterey Chicken often has **cheddar cheese** instead of Colby Jack.

Which is better? If you love BBQ, go for Monterey Chicken. If you prefer a sweet-savory combo, Alice Springs Chicken is your best bet!

Is Alice Springs Chicken Gluten-Free? Keto-Friendly?

With so many people following **gluten-free** and **keto** diets, let’s break down whether Alice Springs Chicken fits these lifestyles.

Gluten-Free Options for Alice Springs Chicken

Good news! Alice Springs Chicken **can be made gluten-free** with just a few simple adjustments.

What to Watch Out For:

• Make sure the **honey mustard sauce is gluten-free** (some brands contain additives).
• Check that the **bacon is gluten-free** (some brands use fillers).
• Ask for **no croutons** if you’re ordering it with a salad.

How to Order It Gluten-Free at Outback:

When dining at Outback Steakhouse, simply ask your server for a **gluten-free version** of Alice Springs Chicken. They will ensure your meal is prepared without any gluten-containing ingredients.

How to Make a Keto-Friendly Version

Alice Springs Chicken is **almost keto-friendly** as is, but there are ways to make it even lower in carbs.

Keto Modifications:

• Use a **sugar-free honey mustard sauce** (or make your own with Dijon, mayo, and a keto sweetener).
• Skip the **honey** entirely if you want zero sugar.
• Pair it with **steamed veggies** instead of starchy sides like potatoes.

Carbs in Alice Springs Chicken (Keto Version):

Net Carbs Estimate: About 3-5g per serving when made keto-style.

Where to Get Alice Springs Chicken Outside of Outback

Can’t make it to Outback Steakhouse? No worries! Here are some places to find **similar dishes** or make it at home.

Restaurants Offering Similar Dishes

While Alice Springs Chicken is exclusive to Outback, some restaurants serve **grilled chicken with cheese and bacon** that are just as satisfying.

• Chili’s: Their Monterey Chicken is a great alternative.
• Texas Roadhouse: Offers a smothered grilled chicken with similar toppings.
• Applebee’s: Has a Bourbon Street Chicken that’s flavorful and cheesy.

Ordering Tip: If you want something close, ask for **grilled chicken with bacon, cheese, and a side of honey mustard** at most casual restaurants.

Ordering Alice Springs Chicken for Takeout or Delivery

If you’re craving Alice Springs Chicken but don’t want to cook, check if your local **Outback Steakhouse offers delivery or takeout**. Many locations are available on **DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub**.

Pro Tip: When ordering for takeout, ask for extra honey mustard sauce on the side!

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Alice Springs Chicken

By now, you’ve learned everything there is to know about Alice Springs Chicken—its history, ingredients, cooking method, and even how to make it gluten-free or keto-friendly. But the real question is: **Should you try it?**

Is It Worth the Hype?

Absolutely! Here’s why:

• It’s loaded with flavor – Sweet honey mustard, smoky bacon, cheesy goodness.
• It’s easy to customize – You can make it healthier, spicier, or keto-friendly.
• It’s perfect for any meal – Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Best Times to Enjoy Alice Springs Chicken at Outback

Wondering when to order this dish? Here’s when it’s best enjoyed:

• **Casual Dinners:** A perfect option when you want something indulgent but not steak.
• **Weekend Treat:** Enjoy it on a Friday night with a cold drink.
• **Family Gatherings:** A dish that both adults and kids love.

Final Tip: If you’ve never tried Alice Springs Chicken, don’t wait—order it next time you’re at Outback, or better yet, make it at home!

Now that you know all about Alice Springs Chicken, what do you think? Have you tried it before? Let us know your thoughts and happy cooking!