Alice Springs Chicken is one of the most iconic and mouthwatering dishes from Outback Steakhouse. Imagine juicy, marinated chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and sautéed mushrooms. It’s a flavor explosion that keeps people coming back for more!
But what if you could make this restaurant-quality dish at home? The good news is—you can! This Alice Springs Chicken copycat recipe will show you exactly how to recreate the magic with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: ❤︎
✅ Tastes just like (or better than) the Outback version
✅ Easy to make with everyday ingredients
✅ Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
✅ Customizable to your taste – spice it up or make it keto-friendly
A Quick Look at What’s Inside:
- The secret to an authentic honey mustard marinade
- Step-by-step instructions to get the perfect flavor
- Pro tips to make your chicken extra juicy
- Variations & side dish pairings for a complete meal
Ready to unlock the secret behind this beloved dish? Let’s dive in! 🍽️🔥
Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken
To get the best flavor, you need the right ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for searing)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (for extra color and flavor)
For the Honey Mustard Marinade:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder taste)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for a tangy kick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
- 1 ½ cups Colby Jack or Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Substitutes:
🔹 Low-carb? Swap honey for sugar-free maple syrup.
🔹 Dairy-free? Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese.
🔹 No Dijon? Use regular mustard and add a little extra honey.
Now that we have everything ready to go, let’s move on to how to make it step by step!
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken (Step-by-Step Guide)
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together and recreate this Outback classic! Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to make juicy, cheesy, and flavorful Alice Springs Chicken right at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Marinade
The key to this dish is the delicious honey mustard sauce that doubles as both a marinade and a dipping sauce.
1️⃣ In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
2️⃣ Taste and adjust: If you like it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer it tangier, add more mustard.
3️⃣ Set aside ⅓ cup of this sauce to use later for drizzling and dipping.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Why marinate? Marinating infuses the chicken with flavor and helps keep it moist and juicy.

1️⃣ Place the chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or shallow dish.
2️⃣ Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken.
3️⃣ Massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated.
4️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight.
🚨 Pro Tip: The longer you marinate, the better the flavor!
Got extra chicken? Check out these Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for quick and tasty meal ideas.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Now, let’s sear the chicken to lock in the juices before baking.
1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Remove the chicken from the marinade (shake off excess liquid).
3️⃣ Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4️⃣ Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until it develops a golden-brown crust.
5️⃣ Remove from heat and set aside.
🔹 Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked—it will finish cooking in the oven!
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
To add even more depth of flavor, we’ll cook the mushrooms until they are golden and tender.

1️⃣ In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp butter.
2️⃣ Toss in 1 cup sliced mushrooms and sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir occasionally until they turn soft and slightly caramelized.
4️⃣ Remove from heat and set aside.
🚨 Pro Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the mushrooms while they cook to help them release moisture faster!
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken with Toppings
Now comes the best part—layering on all the cheesy, smoky goodness!

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
3️⃣ Spread a spoonful of the reserved honey mustard sauce over each piece.
4️⃣ Top with sautéed mushrooms.
5️⃣ Lay 1-2 slices of crispy bacon over each chicken breast.
6️⃣ Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese (Colby Jack or Cheddar).
Wondering how long cooked chicken lasts? Learn How Long Leftover Rotisserie Chicken is Good in the Fridge to keep your meals safe and delicious.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Time to melt that cheese and lock in the flavors!
1️⃣ Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
2️⃣ Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3️⃣ Check for doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
🚨 Pro Tip: Want an extra crispy cheese topping? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end!
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Your homemade Alice Springs Chicken is ready! 🍽️
✔️ Drizzle with extra honey mustard sauce.
✔️ Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
✔️ Serve hot with your favorite sides (see next section for ideas!).
Pairing Alice Springs Chicken with the Perfect Side Dishes
Now that you’ve mastered Alice Springs Chicken, it’s time to complete your meal with some delicious sides! Whether you’re looking for classic steakhouse pairings or healthier alternatives, I’ve got you covered.
1. Classic Outback-Style Side Dishes
If you want the full restaurant experience, pair your Alice Springs Chicken with these Outback-inspired sides:

🥔 Steakhouse-Style Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the cheesy, smoky flavors of the chicken.
🍟 Crispy Seasoned Fries – Just like Outback! Make homemade fries or grab a bag of frozen steak fries and season them with garlic salt, paprika, and pepper.
🥖 Texas Toast or Garlic Bread – A thick slice of buttery, garlicky toast is perfect for soaking up the extra honey mustard sauce.
🥗 Outback House Salad – A simple mix of romaine lettuce, tomatoes, croutons, and cheese, served with ranch or honey mustard dressing.
2. Healthier Alternatives for a Lighter Meal
Want to make your meal a bit healthier? Try these nutritious, yet delicious sides:
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – A mix of carrots, zucchini, and broccoli roasted with olive oil, salt, and garlic makes a tasty, low-carb side.
🥑 Avocado & Tomato Salad – Fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and lemon juice add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
🍠 Sweet Potato Mash – A naturally sweet and creamy side that pairs beautifully with the honey mustard marinade.
🥒 Cucumber Dill Salad – Light and refreshing with a mix of cucumbers, Greek yogurt, and fresh dill.
3. Low-Carb & Keto Side Dish Ideas
If you’re watching your carbs, these keto-friendly options will keep your meal low-carb without sacrificing flavor:
🥑 Loaded Cauliflower Mash – Just like mashed potatoes, but made with buttery mashed cauliflower, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.
🥬 Sautéed Garlic Spinach – A quick and healthy side that’s full of flavor and ready in 5 minutes.
🥒 Zucchini Noodles (“Zoodles”) – A light and tasty alternative to pasta that soaks up the extra honey mustard sauce!
Craving crispy, cheesy goodness? Give this easy Chicken Nachos Recipe a try for a crowd-pleasing snack.
4. Best Drinks to Pair with Alice Springs Chicken
A great meal isn’t complete without the perfect drink! Here are some beverage pairings:
🍷 White Wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) – Pairs beautifully with the creamy honey mustard and cheese.
🍺 Light Beer (Lager or Wheat Beer) – A refreshing choice that balances the richness of the dish.
🥤 Iced Tea with Lemon – A classic, Southern-style pairing that keeps the meal light and refreshing.
🍋 Homemade Lemonade – The sweet and tart flavors complement the savory chicken beautifully.
How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken for Different Occasions
🍽️ Weeknight Dinner: Serve with roasted veggies and a quick salad.
🎉 Dinner Party: Pair with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, and white wine for an elevated experience.
🥗 Low-Carb Meal: Keep it simple with steamed greens and cauliflower mash.
Customizing Alice Springs Chicken to Fit Your Taste
One of the best things about Alice Springs Chicken is how versatile it is! Whether you want to spice it up, make it low-carb, dairy-free, or even vegetarian, there’s a way to customize this dish to fit your dietary needs.
1. Adding a Spicy Kick 🌶️🔥
Love a little heat? Try these variations:
🔥 Spicy Honey Mustard Sauce – Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the honey mustard for an extra kick.
🌶️ Jalapeño Topping – Add thinly sliced jalapeños before baking for a spicy, zesty bite.
🧄 Spicy Garlic Butter – Brush the chicken with garlic-infused butter and red pepper flakes before baking.
2. Making It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly 🥑
To keep this dish keto-friendly, swap out the honey mustard for a sugar-free version:
✔️ Use sugar-free honey or keto maple syrup in the sauce.
✔️ Skip the honey mustard entirely and use a garlic butter marinade instead.
✔️ Serve with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash or roasted Brussels sprouts.
✅ Final Carb Count (Keto Version): About 4-5g net carbs per serving (without honey).
3. Making It Dairy-Free 🥛🚫
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can easily tweak this recipe without losing the amazing flavor:
🧀 Use dairy-free cheese – Brands like Violife or Daiya melt beautifully.
🥑 Avocado instead of cheese – Replace cheese with sliced avocado for a creamy, nutritious twist.
🌱 Use vegan mayo – Many store-bought mayos contain dairy, so opt for vegan mayo in the honey mustard sauce.
4. Turning It Into a Vegetarian Dish 🥦
Want to make a meat-free version of Alice Springs Chicken? Try these delicious swaps:
🍄 Portobello Mushrooms Instead of Chicken – Grill or bake portobello mushrooms and top with cheese, bacon alternatives, and honey mustard sauce.
🥬 Cauliflower Steaks – Roast thick cauliflower slices and add the same toppings for a vegetarian twist.
🌱 Jackfruit or Tofu – Marinate and bake jackfruit or tofu for a high-protein option.
5. Other Fun Variations
Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some creative twists:
🥓 Extra Bacon Lovers’ Version – Double up on crispy bacon for a smokier, more indulgent taste.
🧄 Garlic Parmesan Alice Springs Chicken – Swap the honey mustard for a garlic butter sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.
🥑 California Style – Add sliced avocado and fresh tomatoes on top before serving for a cool, refreshing contrast.
Tips for Meal Prepping, Storing, and Reheating Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken tastes amazing fresh, but it also stores and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Follow these tips to keep your chicken juicy, cheesy, and delicious even after storing it!
1. How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your chicken fresh, follow these storage guidelines:
🥶 In the Refrigerator:
- Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
❄️ In the Freezer:
- Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
🚨 Pro Tip: Store extra honey mustard sauce separately so you can drizzle fresh sauce on top when reheating!
2. Best Ways to Reheat Alice Springs Chicken
To keep your chicken juicy and the cheese melty, here’s how to reheat it properly:
🔥 In the Oven (Best Method!)
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil (to prevent drying out).
3️⃣ Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
4️⃣ Remove foil and broil for 2-3 minutes to make the cheese bubbly again.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a little extra honey mustard sauce on top before reheating for extra moisture!
🎯 In the Air Fryer (Fast & Crispy!)
1️⃣ Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Place the chicken in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes.
3️⃣ Check to make sure the cheese is melted and chicken is heated through.
🔥 On the Stovetop (Quick Fix!)
1️⃣ Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
2️⃣ Add a few drops of olive oil or butter.
3️⃣ Place the chicken in the skillet and cover with a lid.
4️⃣ Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping once.
🚫 Avoid the Microwave (If Possible!)
- While microwaving is the fastest way, it can make the chicken dry and rubbery.
- If you must microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, covered with a damp paper towel.
3. Can You Make Alice Springs Chicken Ahead of Time?
YES! Here’s how to prep in advance for easy cooking:
🥩 Marinate the Chicken in Advance – Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours for max flavor.
🧀 Pre-Cook the Bacon & Mushrooms – Store them separately in airtight containers.
🔥 Assemble & Bake Later – You can assemble the chicken in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Perfect for meal prep! Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
FAQs – Answering Your Most Common Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about making Alice Springs Chicken (Outback Copycat).
1. Can I Make Alice Springs Chicken Without Mushrooms?
✅ Yes! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, simply leave them out. The dish will still be cheesy, savory, and delicious!
🔹 Alternative Toppings: Try caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, or even avocado slices for a twist.
2. What’s the Best Cheese for This Recipe?
✅ Colby Jack is the best choice because it melts smoothly and has a mild, creamy flavor.
🔹 Other great options:
- Cheddar (for a sharp flavor)
- Monterey Jack (for a milder taste)
- Mozzarella (for extra stretchiness)
3. How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
✅ For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal.
🚀 Short on time? Try poking small holes in the chicken before marinating to absorb flavors faster.
4. Can I Make It Ahead of Time? 🍽️
✅ Absolutely! Here’s how:
Make it ahead for easy meal prep:
- Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
- Cook the bacon and mushrooms ahead and store them separately.
- Assemble everything in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate.
When ready to eat, bake it fresh!
5. Is Alice Springs Chicken Gluten-Free?
✅ Yes! The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
⚠️ Be careful with these ingredients:
- Some store-bought honey mustard sauces contain gluten—make your own to be safe.
- If using pre-shredded cheese, check the label (some contain additives with gluten).
6. What Can I Use Instead of Honey Mustard?
If you don’t like honey mustard, try these alternatives:
🔹 BBQ Sauce – A smoky, tangy alternative.
🔹 Ranch Dressing – Creamy and delicious!
🔹 Garlic Butter – A simple, rich option.
7. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Alice Springs Chicken?
✅ The oven or air fryer is the best way to reheat it without drying it out.
Oven Method:
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
3️⃣ Bake for 10-15 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes to melt the cheese again.
🚫 Avoid microwaving if possible—it can make the chicken rubbery.
Conclusion – Why You Need to Try This Alice Springs Chicken Recipe!
You’ve now unlocked the secrets to making Alice Springs Chicken just like Outback Steakhouse—or even better! This juicy, cheesy, bacon-loaded dish is a must-try for any comfort food lover.
Final Tips for the Best Alice Springs Chicken:
✔️ Marinate for maximum flavor – Overnight is best!
✔️ Use crispy bacon – It adds the perfect smoky crunch.
✔️ Choose the right cheese – Colby Jack, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack work best.
✔️ Sear before baking – This locks in juices and enhances flavor.
✔️ Save extra honey mustard sauce – It’s perfect for drizzling and dipping!
This recipe is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Give it a try and impress your family and friends!