Alice Springs Chicken Outback Copycat

By Tyla | Last modified on Dec 17, 2025

Featured in: Dinner

Alice Springs Chicken is a beloved dish inspired by the iconic Australian Outback Steakhouse. This savory and satisfying meal features tender grilled chicken breasts topped with a luscious honey mustard sauce, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese that creates a comforting, flavor-packed dinner perfect for any night of the week.

Recreating this restaurant favorite at home lets you enjoy juicy, well-seasoned chicken combined with rich, creamy toppings that melt beautifully together. It’s an inviting dish that’s sure to please both family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with accessible ingredients and straightforward steps.
Combines savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy honey mustard for balanced flavor.
Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or special gathering with loved ones.

Ingredients

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Four tender chicken breasts, the main protein, providing a juicy and healthy base to this dish.
Olive Oil or Butter: Two tablespoons for coating the chicken, adding moisture and enhancing seasoning adherence during cooking.
Garlic Powder: One teaspoon to impart warm, aromatic depth, enhancing the chicken’s flavor simply and effectively.
Paprika: One teaspoon adds a mild smoky flavor and a vibrant color that complements the grilled chicken.
Salt: Half a teaspoon for proper seasoning to bring out all the savory flavors harmoniously.
Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon of freshly ground pepper for a subtle heat and aromatic kick.
Bacon Slices: Four strips cooked crispy, providing a salty crunch and smoky richness to balance the creamy toppings.
Mushrooms: Half a cup of sliced mushrooms sautéed for earthy flavor and soft texture contrast.
Shredded Colby Jack Cheese: One cup melted over the chicken for a mild, creamy finish with a hint of sharpness.
Fresh Parsley: Two tablespoons finely chopped, optional for garnish to add freshness and a pop of color.
Mayonnaise: Half a cup serves as the creamy base for the homemade honey mustard sauce that complements the dish.
Dijon or Yellow Mustard: Two tablespoons adds tanginess and a subtle bite to brighten the sauce.
Honey: Two tablespoons lend natural sweetness balancing the tangy mustard perfectly.
Lemon Juice: One teaspoon fresh lemon juice for acidity that lifts and refreshes the honey mustard sauce.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and cheese toppings melt without sticking.
Make the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth. This creamy sauce brings sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the savory chicken and bacon.
Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter, then evenly sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend adds aroma and a flavorful crust when seared.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and creates a beautiful color before baking.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, quickly sauté the sliced mushrooms until tender and browned, intensifying their earthy flavor and adding soft texture as a topping.
Assemble the Chicken with Toppings: Place the seared chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Spread a generous spoonful of the honey mustard sauce on each piece followed by crispy bacon strips, sautéed mushrooms, and a hearty layer of shredded cheese.
Bake Until Cooked Through: Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted, bubbling, and golden.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the hot chicken for a fresh color contrast. Serve immediately with extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

You Must Know

Ensure chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to prevent dryness or undercooking.
The bacon and cheese toppings add saltiness and richness, balancing the tangy honey mustard.
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture and melt the cheese without drying out the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Alice Springs Chicken is delicious served alongside roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. A crisp white wine or iced tea pairs nicely with the savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Professional Tips

For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and searing.
Use freshly cooked bacon for crispy texture, and sauté mushrooms in bacon fat for enhanced flavor.
Substitute Colby Jack with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder or creamier cheese profile.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly as thighs may take longer to cook through.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?: Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels, especially for condiments like mustard and mayonnaise.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain chicken juiciness and melted cheese texture.
Can I make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?: Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir gently before using.
What side dishes complement Alice Springs Chicken?: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully to balance this rich and flavorful dish.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?: You can try replacing chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks topped with the same sauce and toppings.
How can I make this dish spicier?: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy mustard in the honey mustard sauce to introduce a gentle heat.