Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and savory dish that originates from the famous Outback Steakhouse. This mouthwatering recipe features juicy chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and melted cheese, all drizzled with a flavorful honey mustard sauce. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive recipe for Alice Springs Chicken, including nutritional value, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
1.Nutritional Value
Alice Springs Chicken is a rich and hearty dish that provides a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving (approximate values):
Calories: 600-650 calories
Protein: 50 grams
Fat: 35 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 10 grams
Cholesterol: 160 mg
Sodium: 1200 mg
This dish is high in protein due to the chicken and bacon, and provides essential vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms and cheese.
2.Ingredients
To make Alice Springs Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sliced mushrooms
8 slices of bacon
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3.Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until well combined. Set aside.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the sliced mushrooms until they are tender and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken breasts until they are golden brown on both sides but not cooked through. This will take about 4-5 minutes per side.
Assemble the Dish: Place the partially cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of honey mustard sauce over each chicken breast. Top with sautéed mushrooms, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheeses.
Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
4.Variations
Spicy Alice Springs Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Version: Use turkey bacon and low-fat cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms and use plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the honey mustard sauce and bacon, are gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
5.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the dish and bake as directed.
What sides go well with Alice Springs Chicken?
Popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Gouda.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I cook this on the grill?
Yes, you can grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked and then assemble the dish on a grill-safe pan. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
Alice Springs Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With its combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, savory mushrooms, and melted cheese, all enhanced by a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, it’s a recipe worth trying. Explore the variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences, and enjoy this scrumptious meal with your favorite sides. Happy cooking