Go Back

Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat)

This restaurant-style Alice Springs Chicken captures the essence of the beloved Outback Steakhouse dish. Tender chicken breasts are immersed in a tangy honey mustard marinade, then topped with sautéed mushrooms, smoky bacon, and a generous layer of melted Colby Jack cheese. It's an indulgent and savory main course perfect for recreating a steakhouse experience at home.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Marinate 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade:

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise

For the chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 ½ pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups Colby Jack cheese shredded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 8 ounces mushrooms sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley optional, for garnish
  • 4 slices cooked bacon chopped into 2-inch pieces

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a small bowl to prepare the marinade. Set aside ¼ cup of the mixture in a sealed container and refrigerate for serving. Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag, pour in the remaining marinade, and ensure the chicken is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Melt the butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms to a bowl and wipe the skillet clean.
  • Add olive oil to the same skillet and heat until shimmering. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet in a single layer, discarding excess marinade. Cook undisturbed until the underside develops a golden crust, approximately 5 minutes. Flip each piece and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until evenly browned.
  • Evenly distribute the sautéed mushrooms atop the browned chicken. Sprinkle over the chopped bacon and top with the shredded cheese. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F at the thickest point.
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if using, and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve with the reserved honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Chicken: While this recipe uses whole chicken breasts, quick-cooking cutlets or boneless thighs can be substituted as long as the total weight remains around 1 ½ pounds for four servings.
Mushrooms: Feel free to omit if not preferred—this step won't affect the overall integrity of the dish.
Cheese: Colby Jack is recommended, though other shredded cheese varieties can be used as substitutes.
Yield: One chicken breast with all toppings and sauce per serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 4 days.
Make Ahead: Chicken may be marinated up to 24 hours in advance.