Alice Springs Chicken Casserole Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about digging into a warm, cheesy casserole after a long day. When that casserole is inspired by the legendary Alice Springs Chicken, it becomes more than just dinner it becomes a moment. This dish, originally made famous by Outback Steakhouse, has evolved into a homemade favorite for families seeking restaurant-level satisfaction at their own table.

I first recreated this recipe during a snowstorm, with only a few fridge staples: chicken, bacon, cheese, and a craving for something indulgent. That night, this Alice Springs Chicken casserole recipe joined the ranks of my family’s must-haves along with cozy classics like our Swamp Soup for Southern comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Alice Springs Chicken

• Combines smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.
• Just one dish to bake perfect for weeknight ease.
• Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Pairs beautifully with your favorite sides, like this crispy French fry casserole.
• It’s meal-prep friendly leftovers reheat like a dream.

Pure Comfort

Imagine a bubbling dish of tender chicken coated in creamy honey mustard, topped with crispy bacon, melty Colby Jack cheese, and just enough mushrooms to add earthy richness. That’s Alice Springs Chicken in casserole form cozy, creamy, and deeply satisfying.

For more casserole magic, you might also love the hearty ground turkey and rice casseroles another family-style winner packed with flavor.

Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comfort classic:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Looking for a twist? Use this easy ranch chicken base as a flavor substitute for a tangy, herbaceous take.

What You Need

9×13-inch casserole dish
Mixing bowls
Large skillet
Whisk
Cutting board & knife

Time to Cook Alice Springs Chicken

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4–6

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté cubed chicken until golden, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Mix mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a bowl to create the honey mustard sauce.
4. Layer cooked chicken in a casserole dish.
5. Pour honey mustard sauce evenly over chicken.
6. Add mushrooms (optional).
7. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
8. Top generously with shredded cheese.
9. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Want to learn about cooking the chicken just right? Check out this guide on cooking thin-sliced chicken breast perfectly.

Make It Perfect

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken makes an excellent shortcut. Add a quick broil at the end for extra cheesy crispiness.

Mix It Up

Feeling creative? Try these fun variations:

• Swap in turkey or use leftover rotisserie meat.
• Add a layer of baby spinach before the cheese.
• Mix in cooked pasta or rice for a complete one-dish meal.
• Stir in jalapeños or chipotle for heat.

Perfect Partners

Serve your Alice Springs Chicken casserole with these flavorful favorites:

• Garlic butter broccoli bites
• Easy baked pasta salad
• Homestyle mashed potatoes
• Cheesy stuffed chicken for a double chicken feast

Busy Day Hero

This recipe was made for weeknight wins. You can fully prep it ahead of time just cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It’s a perfect choice when juggling kids, work, and everything in between.

Work Ahead

Make the sauce and cook your chicken a day early. Crumble the bacon ahead of time, and you’ll have a zero-stress dinner ready to assemble and bake the next evening.

For more meal prep wonders, see how slow cooker recipes can save your weekday sanity.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers? Oh yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

You can even repurpose leftovers into wraps using this easy tortilla wrap technique.

Everyone’s Happy

This is one of those rare recipes that checks every box: cheesy, flavorful, kid-approved, and adult-worthy. Even picky eaters are likely to ask for seconds. If you like this, you’ll probably enjoy Divorce Chicken another bold, satisfying chicken dinner.

Good For You Too

Lighten it up by using low-fat cheese, light mayo, or Greek yogurt in the sauce. Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to bulk it out without the guilt.

Easy Clean Up

One pan = one happy cook. You’ll only need to clean a bowl, a skillet, and your casserole dish. Line it with parchment or foil to make clean-up even easier.

Switch It Up

You can swap in different cheeses, omit the mushrooms, or layer in cooked quinoa or rice. Want something smoky? Add paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. Or go totally wild with a base inspired by this cheesy taco pasta twist.

Simply Perfect

This dish delivers everything you want from a casserole flavor, ease, and that special something. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, Alice Springs Chicken will never let you down.

FAQs for Alice Springs Chicken

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, just cover and refrigerate before baking.

What if I don’t like mushrooms?
Leave them out or sub with spinach or peppers.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze assembled or after baking.

Can I use a different cheese?
Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack.

Can I make this spicy?
Add a teaspoon of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the sauce.

How can I lower the calories?
Use light mayo and skip the cheese topping (or reduce it by half).

Conclusion for Alice Springs Chicken

The next time you’re craving serious comfort food, turn to this Alice Springs Chicken casserole. With bold flavors, a creamy texture, and family-friendly appeal, it’s more than just dinner it’s a memory in the making. From game days to Sunday suppers, it always satisfies.

Want more Outback-inspired flavor? Read this detailed guide to Alice Springs Chicken at Outback or master the original recipe in your own kitchen. For the nutrition-conscious, explore the full calorie count and health tips too.

Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!