Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: Outback’s Family Favorite, Made Easy

As the sun sets over the Australian Outback, a delicious smell fills the air. It’s the smell of grilled chicken, tangy honey mustard, and sizzling bacon. This is Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken, a dish loved by families in America.

This dish was always on our dinner table when I was growing up. It brought us laughter and made us feel close. It’s a dish that reminds us of home and comfort.

In this article, we’ll explore the history and flavors of Alice Springs Chicken. We’ll show you how to make it in your kitchen. This recipe will become a favorite in your family, enjoyed many times.

The Story Behind Outback’s Signature Alice Springs Chicken

The Alice Springs Chicken is a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. But, its story goes back to Australia’s outback cuisine. This dish celebrates the bold flavors of Australia’s wild lands.

Origins in Australian Outback Cuisine

The dish is named after Alice Springs, in the Australian outback. This area is known for its vast, dry lands. Here, people cook with what they have, creating dishes like the Alice Springs Chicken.

The chicken, bacon, and honey-mustard sauce mix is a result of this resourceful cooking. It shows the creativity and toughness of outback cuisine.

Evolution into an American Restaurant Favorite

When Outback Steakhouse came to the US, the Alice Springs Chicken joined the menu. Its mix of known and new tastes won over American diners. Now, it’s a top pick at Outback, blending Australian and American flavors.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Making the famous Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse at home needs the right ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, getting the ingredients right is key.

The grilled chicken breasts are at the heart of the recipe. Choose fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For the honey mustard glaze, you’ll need Dijon mustard, honey, and a bit of vinegar or lemon juice for balance.

To add more flavor, think about using spicy peri-peri sauce or a mix of herbs and spices. Mushrooms, bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese are also crucial for the top layer.

Key Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Peri-peri sauce (or your preferred spice blend)
• Sliced mushrooms
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Shredded cheddar cheese

The quality of your ingredients greatly affects the taste and texture of your Alice Springs Chicken. Choose fresh, high-quality products for the best taste.

“The secret to a truly exceptional Alice Springs Chicken lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures.”

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

To make Outback’s woodfired chicken and grilled chicken at home, you need the right tools. You’ll need everything from grilling gear to measuring devices. The right tools are key to mastering the Alice Springs Chicken recipe.

Grilling Equipment Essentials

• High-quality grill or smoker for woodfired chicken and grilled chicken
• Sturdy grill grates or racks to accommodate the chicken
• Long-handled tongs and spatula for safe and easy handling
• Meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection

Cooking and Preparation Tools

1. Sharp chef’s knife for cutting and trimming the chicken
2. Cutting board to provide a stable surface for prepping
3. Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
4. Baking dish or casserole for assembling the final dish

Measuring and Mixing Supplies

Accurate measurements are crucial for the Alice Springs Chicken sauce and marinade. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Liquid measuring cups for accurately portioning liquids
• Dry measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients
• Whisk or fork for blending the sauce and marinade

With the right tools, you can make Outback’s woodfired chicken and grilled chicken at home. It’s a delicious experience you can enjoy in your own kitchen.

Preparing the Signature Honey Mustard Sauce

Making the perfect honey mustard glaze is key to Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken. This sauce is great for marinating, dipping, or as a topping. Follow these steps to make a batch that will make your taste buds happy.

Ingredients for the Honey Mustard Glaze

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To make the glaze, just whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl. For a thicker flavor, let it sit for 10-15 minutes. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Want a spicy twist? Add some peri-peri sauce to the mix. The heat from the peri-peri will mix well with the honey’s sweetness, making your dish pop.

“The secret to a great honey mustard sauce is finding the right balance between sweet and tangy. With this recipe, you’ll be able to capture that irresistible Outback flavor in your own kitchen.”

Marinating Techniques for Tender, Flavorful Chicken

Getting the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor in your grilled or woodfired chicken starts with marination. By using the right marinating techniques, you can bring out the best in your chicken. This will make your meals a hit with your family and guests.

Optimal Marination Times

The secret to delicious chicken is in the marination. For the best results, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. But don’t marinate it for more than 24 hours. This time lets the flavors soak into the meat, making it tender and juicy.

• Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour for a quick flavor boost.
• Marinate for 2 to 4 hours for deeper flavor integration.
• Marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum tenderization and taste.

Temperature and Storage Tips

Keeping the right temperature is key during marination. Always marinate your chicken in the fridge. Keep the temperature between 40°F and 140°F. This keeps your food safe and stops harmful bacteria from growing.

1. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
2. Avoid leaving marinated chicken out for more than 2 hours (1 hour in hot weather).
3. Discard any unused marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken.

By using these marinating techniques, you’ll make your grilled chicken or woodfired chicken even better. You’ll enjoy a great dining experience every time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Learning to make the perfect grilled chicken or woodfired chicken at home is rewarding. By following the steps for Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken, you’ll make a tasty bushman’s dinner.

1. First, heat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If grilling, make sure it’s well-oiled and hot.
2. Put the marinated chicken on the grill or in a dish. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, until it’s 165°F (74°C) inside.
3. In the last 5 minutes, add honey mustard sauce, shredded cheese, and bacon on top of each chicken.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This makes it juicy and full of flavor.

For the best Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken, pay attention to the details. Stick to the marinating and temperature tips. This will give you the taste and tenderness that make this bushman’s dinner a favorite.

Mastering the Cheese and Bacon Topping

The cheese and bacon topping is the star of the Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse. It adds flavor and a rich texture that goes well with the grilled chicken. To make this dish at home, it’s important to pick the right cheese and cook the bacon just right.

Cheese Selection Guide

The cheese topping is key to the Alice Springs Chicken. It melts into a creamy layer that holds the dish together. The original recipe uses Monterey Jack and cheddar, but you can try other cheeses too. Here are some good choices:

• Pepper Jack: It adds a spicy kick that goes well with the chicken and bacon.
• Gruyère: It has a nutty, sweet flavor that’s great with the dish’s flavors.
• Mozzarella: It melts into a stringy texture that’s perfect for comfort food.

Bacon Preparation Methods

The bacon on the Alice Springs Chicken should be crispy and flavorful. To get the right texture, try these methods:

1. Baking: Cook the bacon on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. Pan-Frying: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat, turning it until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Air Frying: Cook the bacon in your air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

After cooking, drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. Then, place it on top of the chicken.

Plating and Presentation Tips

Make your homemade Alice Springs Chicken look as good as the restaurant version. Start by placing the grilled chicken breast on a clean, white plate. Position it at a slight angle for visual interest. Then, drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the top, letting it flow down the sides.

Next, add fresh, vibrant vegetables to the dish. Place sautéed mushrooms, crisp bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese around the chicken. This creates a colorful and appetizing display. Finish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of parsley for flavor and visual appeal.

To complete the meal, serve the Alice Springs Chicken with fluffy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. Place the side dish on the plate in a way that complements the main course. With these simple steps, you can make your dish look like it came from an Outback restaurant.