Alice Springs Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a signature dish at Outback Steakhouse that perfectly embodies their Australian-inspired flavors. With its juicy grilled chicken breast, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a drizzle of tangy honey mustard sauce, this dish has become a beloved favorite for diners craving something hearty and delicious. Whether you’re a regular at Outback or new to their menu, Alice Springs Chicken is a dish that promises to delight your taste buds.
Key Ingredients and How It’s Made
– What Makes Alice Springs Chicken at Outback a Must-Try?
Discover why this grilled chicken dish topped with bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce is a customer favorite at Outback Steakhouse.
Grilled Chicken Breast
The star of the dish is undoubtedly the high-quality, boneless chicken breasts used by Outback Steakhouse. These are carefully marinated with a flavorful blend of seasonings, which not only enhance the natural juiciness but also elevate the overall taste of the chicken to perfection.
- Flavor: Savory, smoky, and slightly charred from grilling.
- Texture: Tender and moist, with a firm yet juicy bite.
Bacon
Crispy strips of bacon are layered over the chicken, adding a smoky, salty punch to the dish. The bacon balances the richness of the cheese and complements the sweetness of the honey mustard sauce.
- Flavor: Smoky, salty, and indulgent.
- Texture: Crunchy, providing contrast to the tender chicken.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are sautéed to perfection, adding an earthy depth of flavor. They also contribute a soft, meaty texture that rounds out the dish.
- Flavor: Rich, umami-packed, and slightly nutty.
- Texture: Soft and succulent.
Cheese Blend
To start, a delicious blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses is melted over the chicken. Moreover, this creates a gooey, creamy topping that, in turn, perfectly brings all the elements of the dish together. Ultimately, this combination elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level of indulgence.
- Flavor: Mildly tangy and rich.
- Texture: Smooth and melty.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Of course, the dish wouldn’t be complete without Outback’s signature honey mustard sauce. Not only is this sauce drizzled over the top, but it is also served on the side for dipping, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Flavor: Sweet and tangy with a slight hint of spice.
- Texture: Smooth and silky.
Optional Garnishes
Many customers love to add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
– Step-by-Step: How Alice Springs Chicken Is Made at Outback
Learn how Outback creates their famous Alice Springs Chicken, from grilling the chicken to melting the cheese and adding savory toppings.
1: Preparing the Chicken
- The chicken breasts are marinated in a blend of spices and seasonings. This ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy.
- The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky, charred flavor while retaining its tenderness.
2: Layering the Ingredients
- Once the chicken is cooked, it’s placed on a plate and topped with crispy bacon strips.
- Sautéed mushrooms are layered generously over the bacon.
- Finally, a mix of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese is added to the top.
3: Melting and Finishing
- The chicken is placed under a broiler or in an oven until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- It’s then garnished with parsley and served with a generous drizzle of honey mustard sauce.
4: Presentation
- The dish is plated alongside a side of Aussie Fries or the customer’s chosen side, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
- A ramekin of honey mustard sauce is added for dipping or additional flavor.
– Flavor Profile and Popularity at Outback
– Alice Springs Chicken’s Flavor Profile: Smoky, Savory, and Sweet
To begin with, discover the irresistible taste of Outback’s Alice Springs Chicken, a dish that is bursting with bold, layered flavors. Moreover, these flavors come together harmoniously, leaving diners craving more with every bite. Ultimately, it’s a culinary experience that combines richness and satisfaction in every mouthful.
Flavor Highlights
- Savory and Smoky: The grilled chicken provides a deep, smoky flavor base, enhanced by the salty crunch of bacon.
- Rich and Creamy: The Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese topping adds a rich, creamy element that balances the dish’s savory notes.
- Earthy Undertones: Sautéed mushrooms contribute an umami depth, making the dish feel indulgent yet hearty.
- Sweet and Tangy: The honey mustard sauce is the pièce de résistance. Its sweetness complements the smoky bacon and chicken, while the tanginess cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Textural Balance
- Crispy: Bacon and grilled edges of the chicken add a satisfying crunch.
- Juicy: The chicken breast remains moist and succulent, even under layers of toppings.
- Melty and Gooey: The melted cheese creates a creamy texture, contrasting with the crunch of the bacon.
- Soft: Sautéed mushrooms add a tender, melt-in-your-mouth component.
The interplay of these flavors and textures is what makes Alice Springs Chicken stand out as a signature dish.
– Why Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse Is So Popular
Uncover the reasons this hearty dish is a hit, from its rich ingredients to its versatility and satisfying portion sizes.
Broad Appeal
- For Families: Its combination of familiar ingredients like chicken, cheese, and bacon makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
- For Adventurous Eaters: The layering of flavors—sweet, smoky, and tangy—offers something exciting for more refined palates.
- For Comfort Food Lovers: The hearty, cheesy nature of the dish makes it perfect for those craving a comforting, indulgent meal.
An Outback Staple
Outback Steakhouse, celebrated for its Australian-inspired theme, seamlessly incorporates Alice Springs Chicken into its narrative. The dish’s name, derived from the iconic and remote Australian town of Alice Springs, lends it a distinctive identity while reinforcing its connection to Outback’s brand story.
Why Customers Love It
- Customizability: Diners can choose their preferred sides, making it versatile for any appetite or dietary preference.
- Consistent Quality: Outback Steakhouse ensures that Alice Springs Chicken is prepared to the same high standard every time.
- Generous Portions: The dish is satisfying and filling, offering great value for the price.
Recognition
Alice Springs Chicken is frequently highlighted on social media and food blogs as a “must-try” item at Outback Steakhouse. Its unique combination of flavors has earned it a loyal following.
Pairing Options and Dietary Considerations
– Perfect Pairings for Alice Springs Chicken at Outback
Complete your Outback dining experience by pairing this iconic dish with sides like Aussie Fries, fresh salads, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Side Dish Pairings
– Aussie Fries: The default side, these crispy, golden fries complement the richness of the chicken with their salty crunch.
– Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter option, a medley of broccoli, carrots, and squash offers freshness and balance.
– Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes enhance the comfort food vibe of the dish.
– Loaded Baked Potato: Topped with sour cream, cheese, and chives, this indulgent side is a great match for the dish’s hearty flavors.
– House or Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can offset the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Dessert Pairings
Finish your meal with one of Outback Steakhouse’s signature desserts:
– Chocolate Thunder from Down Under: A decadent chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream.
– New York-Style Cheesecake: Light and creamy, offering a sweet ending to a savory meal.
– Health and Nutrition Tips for Alice Springs Chicken Lovers
Get insights into the calories, protein, and dietary customizations for enjoying Alice Springs Chicken at Outback guilt-free.
Nutritional Breakdown
While exact nutritional content varies, an average serving includes:
- Calories: Approximately 1,100–1,200 (including default sides).
- Protein: 70–80g (high protein content makes it a great choice for muscle recovery).
- Fats: Predominantly from bacon, cheese, and honey mustard sauce.
- Carbs: Limited unless paired with carb-heavy sides like fries or potatoes.
Customizing for Dietary Preferences
- – Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
- Request no honey mustard sauce or substitute it with a sugar-free option.
- Pair with steamed vegetables instead of fries or potatoes.
- – Gluten-Free Options:
- Outback Steakhouse offers a gluten-free menu; verify that the dish is prepared without cross-contamination.
- Skip the sauce if it contains gluten or request a gluten-free alternative.
- – Lighter Version:
- Ask for the chicken to be grilled with minimal oil.
- Reduce or eliminate the cheese and bacon to lower calorie and fat content.
- – Vegetarian Alternative:
- While not applicable to the traditional dish, vegetarian customers might enjoy Outback’s other options or request a version with plant-based ingredients.
Allergen Information
- Contains: Dairy (cheese, sauce), soy (sauce ingredients), and possibly gluten (depending on preparation).
- Tips: Always inform your server of any food allergies to ensure your meal is safely prepared.
DIY Alice Springs Chicken at Home
– How to Make Alice Springs Chicken at Home Like Outback
First, recreate the magic of Alice Springs Chicken in your own kitchen by following this easy, step-by-step recipe. Next, enjoy the signature flavors of Outback Steakhouse as you blend rich, savory ingredients into a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Finally, savor every bite of this homemade classic!
Ingredients
Serves: 4
– the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
– the Toppings:
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced and sautéed
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for added tanginess)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, and cook the chicken breasts for about 6–8 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth, then taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your preference.
- Set the sauce aside, reserving some for dipping.
3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking tray.
- Top each piece with crispy bacon slices, followed by sautéed mushrooms.
- Sprinkle an even layer of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the toppings.
4: Bake and Finish
- Bake the assembled chicken in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the chicken before serving, and garnish with parsley or green onions for added color.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the chicken with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Serve with the reserved honey mustard sauce for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack and cheddar are traditional, feel free to substitute with your favorites, like provolone or Swiss.
Why Make It at Home?
- Customizable: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Cost-Effective: A homemade version can be more budget-friendly than dining out.
- Convenience: Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without leaving your home.
FAQs and Conclusion
– FAQs About Alice Springs Chicken
What makes Alice Springs Chicken unique?
Alice Springs Chicken stands out because of its combination of bold flavors—grilled chicken, smoky bacon, creamy melted cheese, and tangy honey mustard sauce. This layering of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.
Can Alice Springs Chicken be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! By using gluten-free honey mustard sauce and other certified gluten-free ingredients while carefully avoiding cross-contamination, this dish can be easily adapted for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, Outback Steakhouse offers a gluten-free menu to provide helpful guidance.
How can I reduce the calories in this dish?
To create a lighter version of Alice Springs Chicken, opt for grilled chicken instead of pan-fried, use reduced-fat cheeses, and substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the honey mustard sauce. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a healthier meal.
- Use less cheese or opt for low-fat cheese.
- Skip the bacon or choose turkey bacon as a leaner alternative.
- Serve with a light side like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad instead of fries.
Why is it called Alice Springs Chicken?
The dish is named after Alice Springs, a famous town in Australia’s Northern Territory. This nod to Australia perfectly complements Outback Steakhouse’s theme of offering Australian-inspired cuisine.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Absolutely. To maintain the best texture and flavor:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- Cover the chicken with foil to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I prepare Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and prepare the toppings in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it, then bake it right before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or dinner parties.
Why is it called Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is named after Alice Springs, a well-known town in the Northern Territory of Australia. The name evokes the theme of the Australian Outback, as Alice Springs is a remote and iconic location in the heart of the country. While the dish itself does not originate from Australia, the name aligns with Outback Steakhouse’s branding, which incorporates Australian-inspired themes and names.
How Many Calories Are in the Outback Chicken Alice Springs?
The calorie count for Alice Springs Chicken at Outback Steakhouse can vary based on portion size and sides. On average:
- Calories: Approximately 1,160 calories for the dish, including the chicken with honey mustard sauce, cheese, bacon, and mushrooms.
- Adding sides (like Aussie fries) can increase the calorie count significantly, often exceeding 1,500 calories in total.
For more precise nutritional information, consult Outback Steakhouse’s official menu or nutrition guide.
Is Alice Springs Considered the Outback?
Yes, Alice Springs is considered part of the Outback, which refers to the vast, remote, and often arid regions of Australia. Alice Springs is centrally located in the Australian continent and serves as a gateway to Outback attractions like Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). While it is one of the more developed towns in the Outback, its location and cultural significance make it a quintessential part of the region.
What Is Chicken on the Barbie at Outback?
To start, Chicken on the Barbie is a signature dish at Outback Steakhouse, known for its irresistible flavors. Specifically, it features a grilled chicken breast that is perfectly seasoned and flame-grilled to perfection. Furthermore, the chicken is often brushed with Outback’s signature barbecue sauce, adding a smoky and tangy touch. Additionally, it is served with a side of fresh seasonal vegetables or other accompaniments, depending on your preference. Ultimately, this dish offers a balance of hearty protein and refreshing sides, making it a crowd favorite.
The phrase “on the Barbie” is an Australian slang term for grilling food on a barbecue, further emphasizing the restaurant’s Australian theme.
– Why You Should Try Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re dining at Outback Steakhouse or recreating it at home, this dish embodies the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as-is or adapt it to fit your dietary preferences.
Key Takeaways:
- Satisfying: Packed with protein and loaded with flavor, this dish is perfect for anyone craving a hearty meal.
- Customizable: From sides to sauces, you can tailor the dish to your liking.
- Memorable: Its rich, savory flavors make it a standout item on the Outback menu and a crowd-pleaser at home.
- Flavor Profile: Alice Springs Chicken combines the smoky richness of bacon, the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms, the creamy tang of melted cheese, and the sweet, tangy notes of honey mustard sauce.
- Popularity: This dish has become a staple for comfort food lovers, offering hearty portions and customizable side dishes like Aussie Fries, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- DIY at Home: With resources like the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe, recreating this iconic dish at home is easy and rewarding.
If you love comfort food with a gourmet touch, Alice Springs Chicken is a must-try. Whether you’re dining at Outback Steakhouse or preparing a special meal at home, let this iconic dish take the spotlight.
Highlights
- Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Delight: For who is interested in trying their hand at recreating this Outback classic, this resource provides a step-by-step guide to mastering the recipe in your own kitchen.
- Alice Springs Chicken Calorie Count: Nutritional Breakdown and Health Tips: Discussing the nutritional profile of Alice Springs Chicken, this link is perfect for those looking for lighter versions or specific dietary advice.
- What is Outback’s Chicken on the Barbie?: For fans of Outback’s grilled dishes, this page delves into another Australian-inspired favorite that complements Alice Springs Chicken.
- Mastering the Recipe for Alice Springs Chicken: Readers seeking pro tips and variations on the recipe can explore this link for in-depth cooking guidance.
- Master the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken: Dive into the art of recreating this restaurant-quality dish at home, complete with detailed instructions and insider tips.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken exemplifies the Outback Steakhouse commitment to bold flavors and hearty meals. Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, this dish is a must-try for fans of indulgent, flavorful comfort food. Use the above links to dive deeper into recipes, nutritional insights, and variations that make this classic even more versatile.
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!