If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you’ve likely come across their famous Alice Springs Chicken. This beloved dish combines tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a sprinkling of fresh green onions. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknight dinners or a special family gathering.
Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to recreate this mouthwatering classic in the comfort of your home.
Why This Recipe Works
Savory Layers: The saltiness of bacon paired with creamy, melted cheddar cheese brings a depth of flavor to the chicken.
Easy and Quick: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this a stress-free dish.
Versatile Dish: You can pair it with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, to create a complete meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts: 3 large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise for even cooking).
Bacon: 6 thick slices (or more if you love extra bacon!).
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.
Green Onions: 1/3 cup, chopped, for garnish.
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise for thinner pieces, which cook faster and more evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
While the chicken is baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook just until the fat has rendered and the bacon is soft—not crispy. This ensures it won’t overcook during the next step in the oven. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven. Place two pieces of cooked bacon on top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the bacon.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately.
Tips for Recipe Success
Avoid Dry Chicken: To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overbaking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby for a different twist.
Extra Flavor Boost: Brush the chicken with honey mustard or barbecue sauce before adding the bacon and cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Crispier Bacon Option: If you prefer crispy bacon, fully cook it before placing it on the chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Restaurant-Quality at Home: This recipe allows you to enjoy a classic Outback Steakhouse dish without leaving your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Bacon, cheese, and chicken—what’s not to love? This dish is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can partially prepare the dish in advance by pre-cooking the chicken and bacon, then assembling and baking when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Alice Springs Chicken with these side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for soaking up the cheesy, bacon-topped goodness.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful touch.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a great accompaniment for this hearty dish.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle hot sauce on the chicken before baking for a kick of heat.
Keto-Friendly Option: Swap the cheddar cheese with a low-carb cheese and serve with a side of cauliflower rice.
Extra Toppings: Top with sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the chicken and assemble the dish on a grill-safe pan to melt the cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Outback Steakhouse-Inspired Alice Springs Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It brings together the comfort of home-cooked food with the flavors of a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
So, grab your ingredients and recreate this classic dish at home—your taste buds will thank you!