Alice Springs Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines flavorful ingredients with tender chicken, making it an excellent option for any occasion. This delightful recipe originated from Outback Steakhouse and features juicy grilled chicken topped with honey mustard sauce, cheese, and crisp bacon. Whether you’re preparing for a casual dinner with family or hosting a special event, this recipe will guide you through making a mouthwatering Alice Springs Chicken.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation:
**For the Chicken Marinade:**
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey mustard dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Toppings:**
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese –
1 cup mushrooms (sliced; you can use button, cremini, or your preferred variety)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**For the Side (Optional):**
– Steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad or mashed potatoes to complement the meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. **Prepare the Marinade:**
Start by mixing the honey mustard dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium-sized bowl. This flavorful blend will act as both a marinade for the chicken and a sauce that enhances the overall dish.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:**
Take the two chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours. If you have time, marinating overnight allows the flavors to deepen and make the chicken even tastier.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
1. **Sauté the Mushrooms:**
While the chicken is marinating, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and tender. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside once done.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
1. **Preheat the Grill:**
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium high heat, approximately 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can easily make this dish on a stovetop skillet or in the oven.
2. **Grill the Chicken:**
After the marinating period is over, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken breasts on your preheated grill or skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side before flipping it and cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side. It’s important to ensure the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
3. **Add Toppings:**
In the final moments of cooking, add sautéed mushrooms, chopped bacon, and a balanced blend of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the grill (or skillet) to help melt the cheese.
Step 4: Serve the Chicken
1. **Check for Doneness:**
Once the cheese has melted and the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove it from the grill or skillet. Let the chicken sit for approximately 5 to 8 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite remains juicy and flavorful.
2. **Plate and Garnish:**
Cut the chicken breasts and place them on a plate. You can drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken for extra flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top to brighten up the dish and make it visually appealing.
3. **Add Sides:**
To complete your meal, serve your delicious Alice Springs Chicken alongside sides such as steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, mashed potatoes, or even baked potatoes for a heartier option.
Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken
– **Choosing the Right Chicken:**
Opt for high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. Organic or free-range chicken usually has a better flavor and texture, which enhances the overall dish.
– **Don’t Rush the Marinade:**
Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer gives it a better flavor. If you can, marinate the chicken overnight for a more robust flavor profile.
– **Use a Meat Thermometer:**
To prevent overcooking your chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aiming for 165 degrees Fahrenheit will ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender.
– **Bacon Variations:**
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the type of bacon you use. Experiment with flavors like maple or peppered bacon to introduce a unique twist to your dish.
Alternative Cooking Methods
In case grilling is not an option for you, there are several other cooking methods to achieve the same delicious end result:
Oven-Baking
1. **Preheat your Oven:**
Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.
2. **Bake the Chicken:**
Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper. Cook the chicken in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it is thoroughly cooked., or until fully cooked. Add the cheese and bacon on top in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow them to melt.
Stovetop Cooking
1. **Heat the Pan:**
In a large frying pan, warm up a tablespoon of oil on medium heat.
2. **Cook the Chicken:**
Add the marinated chicken breasts to the heated skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. In the final couple of minutes, sprinkle the bacon and cheese on top, covering the skillet to help the cheese melt.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers from your Alice Springs Chicken, it’s important to store them properly for later enjoyment:
1. **Cool and Store:**
Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container.
2. **Refrigeration:**
You can store the leftovers in your refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cooked chicken, which can last for up to two months.
3. **Reheating:**
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are warmed through. As another option, you can use a microwave for a faster solution.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken is a delightful dish that harmoniously merges the fantastic flavors of honey mustard, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, elevating ordinary grilled chicken to something extraordinary. By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to make a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more. So go ahead and embark on your cooking adventure with Alice Springs Chicken—your taste buds will thank you!