If you have ever craved that perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors, then you absolutely need to try the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a tangy honey-Dijon blend, topped with sautéed mushrooms and ooey-gooey Colby Jack cheese that melts beautifully to create layers of flavor in every bite. It’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to prepare but feels like a special occasion on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward yet essential because every component plays a key role in creating the iconic flavor and texture of the dish.
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick that brightens up the marinade.
- ½ cup honey: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the mustard.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Contributes creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Offers a refreshing citrus note to lift the flavors.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds): The star protein, tender and perfect for marinating.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté mushrooms to golden perfection.
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Earthy, meaty mushrooms that add depth to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken breasts with a delicious crust.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts into a luscious, gooey topping.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. This luscious mixture is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with tangy and sweet notes. Set aside ¼ cup of this marinade for serving later – it’s an extra little treat you’ll love to dip into.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal the bag and gently massage to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though popping it in overnight will deepen the flavor for a truly tasty experience.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Melt butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they shrink, release their moisture, and turn golden brown — this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the mushrooms to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and sear each side for about 5 minutes until a beautiful golden crust forms. This step locks in the chicken’s juices and adds a delightfully crispy texture.
Step 5: Add the Toppings and Bake
Now comes the fun part — spoon the sautéed mushrooms evenly over each chicken breast, then pile on that shredded Colby Jack cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and add salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the chicken hot with the reserved marinade on the side – this little dipping sauce is pure magic on each bite.
How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a vibrant green touch that not only looks lovely but also brings hint of herbal freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and savory mushrooms.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light yet satisfying sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad — each complements the hearty chicken without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, arrange the chicken breasts on a large platter topped with mushrooms and cheese, sprinkled with parsley. Drizzle the reserved marinade for dipping right around the edges to invite everyone to dive in. You can even serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or cooked quinoa to soak up every last bit of deliciousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Alice Springs chicken keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the reserved marinade separately if you want to enjoy it fresh when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, wrap each chicken breast individually and freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of sautéed mushrooms can be a bit softer after freezing, but the flavor remains delightful.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the juicy texture and to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.
What can I substitute for Colby Jack cheese?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar all work wonderfully in this recipe and melt beautifully to give you that cheesy topping you crave.
Is there a way to make the marinade spicier?
Sure thing! Add some cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to your marinade mix for an exciting kick without overpowering the classic flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and cook the chicken in batches or use multiple oven-proof skillets. It’s a fantastic dish to impress guests at your next dinner party.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating overnight is ideal for a deeper flavor and even juicier chicken, making it well worth the extra time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe that brings comfort and indulgence together in one delicious meal. Once you try it at home, with that buttery mushroom topping and melty cheese, you’ll see why this dish has such an enduring fan base. Don’t hesitate to whip it up for your next dinner — it’s a guaranteed winner that feels both cozy and impressive!
Print
Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful, restaurant-style dish featuring marinated chicken breasts topped with sautéed mushrooms and melted Colby Jack cheese. This recipe combines a tangy honey-Dijon marinade with creamy mayonnaise and lemon juice, delivering tender, juicy chicken with a golden crust and rich toppings baked to perfection. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with reserved marinade for dipping, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Outback Steakhouse to your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Chicken and Toppings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice. Mix well and set aside ¼ cup of this marinade in a covered container in the refrigerator to serve alongside the finished dish.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a large plastic zipper-top bag. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage gently to coat each piece evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Once melted and the foam subsides, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown. Remove mushrooms from skillet and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step helps seal in juices before baking.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Top each chicken breast evenly with the sautéed mushrooms and shredded Colby Jack cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove skillet from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken, if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot with the reserved marinade on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the depth of flavor and tenderness.
- Use an oven-proof skillet to avoid transferring the chicken after searing.
- You can substitute Colby Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for variation.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Leftover marinade reserved for dipping should not be used for basting or cooking to avoid contamination.
