Name: Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Dijon mustard (preferably French brand); 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds); 2 tablespoons butter; 8 ounces white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped into 2-inch pieces (uncured recommended); 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 6 reviews

If you have ever craved the delicious flavors of Outback Steakhouse right at home, the Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe is your golden ticket. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a mouthwatering combination of honey-mustard sauce, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted Colby Jack cheese. It’s comfort food that feels special enough for a weeknight treat or a casual dinner party, bursting with layers of rich, tangy, and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this copycat version, you'll wonder why you ever thought you had to leave home for a taste this good.

Ingredients You'll Need

A round silver pan sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a single layer of sliced cooked mushrooms spread unevenly, mostly gathered on one side of the pan. The mushrooms are light to dark brown with a soft, moist texture and show some slight browning from cooking. The pan handle is visible at the top and bottom, and the pan interior shows slight signs of use with oil spots. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the zesty honey-Dijon mustard marinade to the creamy cheese and smoky bacon topping, every element contributes a unique note to the final dish.

½ cup Dijon mustard: A tangy, smooth base that balances the sweetness in the sauce perfectly.
½ cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooking.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and richness to the marinade.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Injects a fresh, citrusy brightness to brighten up the sauce.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein; aim for evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing mushrooms and adding a wonderful buttery depth.
8 ounces white button mushrooms: Or cremini mushrooms, sliced to bring earthiness and texture.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a gorgeous golden crust.
4 slices bacon: Cooked and chopped, providing smoky, crispy contrast to tender chicken.
2 cups Colby Jack cheese: Shredded for gooey, mellow cheesy topping that melts like a dream.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Optional but recommended to add a fresh pop of color and aroma.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Honey-Mustard Marinade

Start by whisking together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a small bowl until silky and smooth. This marinade is the heart of the dish, offering a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet vibes. Reserve a quarter-cup of this sauce separately for serving later, so your chicken will stay luscious and flavorful throughout the process.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal the bag and turn it gently to coat each piece evenly. This step is pure magic because it infuses your chicken with flavor and keeps it tender while resting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—and if you have more time, even overnight is fantastic.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then melt butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the mushrooms and sauté until they've released most of their moisture and develop a rich, golden-brown color, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms to a bowl and wipe your skillet clean—this ensures a perfect sear for your chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in the same skillet until shimmering, then add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Avoid moving them around so they can form a gorgeous golden crust on the bottom—this takes about 5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes, sealing in all those juicy flavors and creating a texture contrast that makes each bite so satisfying.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Scatter the sautéed mushrooms evenly on top of the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the chopped bacon and shredded Colby Jack cheese over everything. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, about 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese will melt beautifully, and the bacon crisps up in the oven, transforming the dish into complete deliciousness.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

Once your chicken comes out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve alongside that reserved honey-mustard sauce for dipping—or for drizzling more of that saucy goodness on top. This final touch elevates each forkful.

How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe

A white plate with three main sections: one has a creamy yellow layer of cooked chicken topped with melted cheese, browned mushroom slices, small pieces of bacon, and green herbs sprinkled over; another section contains bright green steamed broccoli with a firm texture; the last section holds smooth, white mashed potatoes with a dash of green herbs on top. Next to the mashed potatoes is a small white round bowl filled with yellow gravy. A silver fork and knife rest on the top left edge of the plate, which is placed on a white marbled surface with a mustard yellow cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, offering a subtle herbal flavor and a vibrant green that contrasts beautifully with the golden cheese and mushrooms. You could also sprinkle a bit more freshly ground black pepper or even a light drizzle of extra honey-mustard sauce to add a glossy finish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Side Dishes

Because Alice Springs Chicken is rich and flavorful, it pairs wonderfully with lighter, fresher sides. Try a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette, garlic roasted green beans, or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the juices. For something heartier, buttery rice pilaf or creamy cauliflower mash both complement the dish’s bold flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts crosswise and fan them out on warm plates, then pile the mushrooms, bacon, and cheese on top like a mini mountain of goodness. You can even serve the reserved honey-mustard sauce on the side in little ramekins for dipping, adding an interactive element to your meal that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Alice Springs Chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking to keep everything fresh and safe to eat. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but to maintain the best texture, flash freeze the cooked chicken breasts without the mushroom and cheese topping. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before adding fresh toppings.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until warmed through, usually about 15 minutes, uncovered to help maintain texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the cheese separate. Adding a bit of extra reserved sauce on the side can revive the dish if it feels dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Colby Jack?

Absolutely! Colby Jack is traditional for its mild flavor and excellent meltability, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even mozzarella depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses will change the flavor profile.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

While an overnight marinade deepens the flavor and tenderness, 30 minutes is perfectly fine if you’re short on time. Even a short soak in the honey-mustard marinade will add wonderful flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the mustard and mayonnaise you use don’t contain gluten. Always check labels to be safe, especially with prepared condiments.

What can I substitute for bacon?

If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have bacon, consider crispy fried shallots or smoked paprika for that smoky flavor punch. Turkey bacon can also be used as a leaner alternative.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling the chicken?

Grilling is an option, but be cautious with the marinade’s sugar content—it may cause the chicken to burn quickly. If grilling, marinate briefly and watch the heat carefully, then add the toppings under a broiler to melt the cheese and crisp the bacon.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly delightful about recreating a beloved restaurant favorite like this Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this recipe promises smiles all around—and a plate that disappears fast. Give it a try and savor the comforting taste of Outback right at home!

Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat) Recipe