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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting richness, the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe is your perfect answer. This beloved classic pairs tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a tangy honey-Dijon blend with savory sautéed mushrooms and gooey melted Colby Jack cheese, creating a mouthwatering harmony of tastes and textures that will instantly become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding four or simply treating yourself, this recipe effortlessly delivers restaurant-quality goodness right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe plays a starring role, providing a balance of tangy, creamy, savory, and fresh notes. While the list might be simple, the magic happens through thoughtful combinations and cooking techniques that elevate every bite.
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy depth that forms the base of the marinade, tenderizing and flavoring the chicken beautifully.
- ½ cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that balances the mustard and creates a glossy, irresistible coating.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and helps keep the chicken moist throughout cooking.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty lift to brighten the marinade flavors.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds): The star protein—lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing mushrooms, enriching their flavor with a luscious, golden finish.
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and juicy, they add texture and an umami boost that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a perfect golden crust without sticking.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts into a creamy topping that crowns the chicken in gooey indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of fresh color and subtle herbaceous notes to finish the dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in every bite.
How to Make Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well combined. This luscious marinade is the heart of the recipe, infusing the chicken with that perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and creaminess. Set aside about a quarter cup of this mixture in a covered container and chill it for serving later. This extra marinade will double as a delightful dipping sauce that complements the dish beautifully.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts inside a large plastic zipper-top bag. Pour in the remaining marinade and gently massage the chicken through the bag to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This step is key because it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken that sings with every bite.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the foam subsides, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they have released their moisture and started to brown nicely, turning into little flavor bombs that add rich earthiness to the dish. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the chicken.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and place the marinated chicken breasts into the pan. Sear each breast for about 5 minutes per side over medium-high heat, achieving a gorgeous golden-brown crust that locks in juices. This creates a flavorful exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior, a hallmark of this Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Once the chicken is seared, pile the sautéed mushrooms evenly over each breast, followed by a generous heap of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, then transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. This final baking step melds all the flavors together and creates that signature melty topping.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and, if you like, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Serve the chicken hot with the reserved marinade on the side as an irresistible dipping sauce. This complete dish is rich, comforting, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.
How to Serve Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but wonderful garnish that adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness to the hearty chicken. If you want to experiment, a light sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few thinly sliced green onions can also add an appealing visual and flavor twist that complements the mushrooms and cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower to soak up the flavorful juices. Roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad provide a fresh contrast, while steamed jasmine or basmati rice will help balance the richness. Whichever you choose, aim for sides that add texture or freshness to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on the classic presentation, try serving the chicken sliced on a platter with the mushrooms and cheese spread over the top elegantly. You can also plate it over a bed of rice or creamy risotto to up the wow factor. For gatherings, serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets to keep everything warm and looking restaurant-chic. The Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe is versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the reserved marinade separate for dipping and reheat the chicken gently to preserve its texture and flavors.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in freezer-safe wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay great for up to three months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work well and add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
Is there a substitute for Colby Jack cheese?
You can substitute Colby Jack with Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, or even mozzarella for a similar melty texture and mild flavor. Each option adds its own unique touch but still complements this recipe beautifully.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The chicken can marinate anywhere from 30 minutes up to 24 hours. For the most intense flavor and tenderness, overnight marination is ideal, but if you’re short on time, 30 minutes still gives great results.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, skip the butter and use a dairy-free oil for sautéing mushrooms, and swap out the cheese for a plant-based alternative. The marinade itself is naturally dairy-free and still packs serious flavor.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and perfect juiciness. If you don’t have one, slicing into the thickest part to check that juices run clear is another option.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe feels like passing along a little culinary treasure. Its harmonious blend of tangy, sweet, earthy, and cheesy flavors makes for a truly memorable meal that’s as satisfying as it is approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe promises warmth, comfort, and a delicious taste of restaurant magic at home. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated chicken breasts topped with sautéed mushrooms, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a flavorful honey-Dijon sauce. Baked to perfection, this dish is both rich and comforting, ideal for a satisfying dinner that captures the essence of a classic Aussie steakhouse favorite.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Chicken and Toppings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice. Set aside ¼ cup of this mixture in a covered container in the refrigerator to be used later as a dipping sauce.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large plastic zipper-top bag. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the foam subsides, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms and set aside. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil, then add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Add the Toppings: Place the sautéed mushrooms evenly on top of each chicken breast, then generously sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over the mushrooms. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the covered skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, garnish the chicken breasts with fresh parsley if desired, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with the reserved marinade on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- If you don’t have an oven-proof skillet, cook the chicken and mushrooms in a regular skillet, then transfer to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- For a lower fat option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Leftover reserved marinade should not be reused as a marinade once mixed with raw chicken; only use it as a dipping sauce.
