Grilled Alice Springs Chicken: A Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Grilled Alice Springs Chicken is one of the most iconic dishes featured on the menu at Outback Steakhouse. Inspired by the Australian Outback, this hearty meal combines tender grilled chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese with a touch of honey mustard sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience.

If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you’re likely familiar with their famous Alice Springs Chicken. It’s a dish that combines flavors and textures in a way that makes it a fan favorite. But what if you could recreate this savory meal in your own kitchen? In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this dish at home and provide additional tips for customization.

For more about the official Outback Steakhouse menu, check out their menu here. You can also explore the nutrition facts for Alice Springs Chicken on fastfoodnutrition.org by following this link.

What is Grilled Alice Springs Chicken?

The Alice Springs Chicken consists of several key ingredients:

Grilled chicken breast – The star of the dish, it’s marinated and grilled to perfection.
Bacon – Adds a crispy texture and a smoky flavor.
Melted cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack – These two cheeses bring richness and creaminess to every bite.
Sautéed mushrooms – Provide a savory element to balance the richness.
Honey mustard sauce – The final touch that ties everything together with a sweet and tangy note.

This combination of flavors is why it’s become a signature item on the Outback Steakhouse menu. It’s a classic recipe that combines both simplicity and indulgence.

The Origin of Alice Springs Chicken

The dish is named after Alice Springs, a town in the heart of the Australian Outback. The region is known for its arid landscapes, rugged beauty, and unique culture. While the dish itself may not be directly linked to any traditional Australian recipes, it draws inspiration from the country’s culinary influences. The combination of grilled chicken, smoky bacon, and cheese feels like a nod to the outback and down-under flavors. The addition of sautéed mushrooms and honey mustard sauce gives it a distinctive twist that has resonated with food lovers worldwide.

Grilled Alice Springs Chicken: Nutritional Information

When you’re preparing this dish at home, it’s important to understand its nutritional profile. The Alice Springs Chicken packs quite a punch, and it’s not a light meal, but it can be adjusted based on personal preference.

Here are some general nutritional facts for one serving of Alice Springs Chicken:

Calories: 1,100 – 1,200
Protein: 60g
Fat: 85g
Carbs: 10g

If you’re looking for specific nutrition details, you can find the official Outback Alice Springs Chicken nutrition information here.

This dish is a calorie-dense meal, so it’s perfect for those looking for a filling option, but it might not be the best choice if you’re trying to cut down on calories. However, with some adjustments, such as choosing a leaner cut of chicken or using a lighter cheese, you can make the dish a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Adjusting Calories for a Healthier Version

If you want to reduce the calorie count, consider these alternatives:

Chicken Breast: Stick with lean skinless chicken breasts to keep the calorie count lower. Alternatively, you can use grilled chicken thighs, which are juicier and slightly higher in fat but offer more flavor.
Cheese Options: Opt for lower-fat cheese varieties or reduce the amount of cheese you use. Even using just one type of cheese will help cut back on the calorie density.
Bacon Substitutes: If you want to reduce fat, you can substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon or other leaner alternatives. These can still provide that crispy texture and savory flavor without the extra fat content.
Honey Mustard Sauce: Make your own honey mustard sauce using low-calorie honey and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream. This will significantly lower the overall fat content while keeping the dish flavorful.

How to Prepare Grilled Alice Springs Chicken at Home

Ingredients

To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup of honey mustard sauce
8 slices of bacon
1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil for grilling

Instructions

Marinate the chicken: Start by marinating your chicken breasts in honey mustard sauce. Let the chicken soak up the flavor for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the bacon: While the chicken marinates, cook your bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. Set it aside to drain on paper towels.
Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and both types of cheese. Cover and let the cheese melt for a few minutes.
Serve: Drizzle some extra honey mustard sauce over the top for added flavor and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success

Grill Marks: For an extra smoky flavor, make sure you get nice grill marks on your chicken by not moving it around too much on the grill.
Cheese: If you want a spicier twist, try using pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
Mushrooms: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out or substitute them with onions or other grilled vegetables.

Variations and Substitutions

There are many ways to customize your Grilled Alice Springs Chicken, whether you’re looking for dietary adjustments or simply want to experiment with flavors.

Cheese Options: While the classic recipe uses Monterey Jack and Cheddar, you can experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Swiss, provolone, or even a sharp blue cheese for extra flavor.
Bacon Substitutes: For those who prefer a healthier option or follow a specific diet, turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon substitutes can provide similar texture and flavor.
Honey Mustard Sauce: If you like your dishes with a bit more zing, try adding a bit of hot sauce or Dijon mustard to the honey mustard sauce for an added kick.

Dietary Adjustments and Customization

Gluten-Free: If you’re on a gluten-free diet, this dish can be made gluten-free as long as you ensure that all ingredients are free of gluten, including the bacon and honey mustard sauce. Choose gluten-free mustard and check your bacon packaging for hidden gluten ingredients.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with a thick portobello mushroom cap or another meaty vegetable and skip the bacon. Replace the cheese with a plant-based variety to make it vegan-friendly.
Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb version, skip the honey mustard sauce or opt for a low-carb alternative. You can also use lettuce wraps instead of serving the dish with carbs like mashed potatoes or bread.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Alice Springs Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides:

Mashed potatoes or baked potatoes complement the dish’s rich flavors.
For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.
For a more indulgent meal, add some crispy fries or onion rings.

Pair the dish with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a light beer, which will complement the grilled flavors.

Additional Sides to Enhance Your Meal

Grilled Asparagus: Add a sophisticated touch with grilled asparagus. The slight bitterness of the asparagus contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Bread: A classic side dish that complements the savory elements of the chicken. It’s the perfect addition if you’re craving something extra indulgent.
Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the savory and smoky flavors of the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions about Grilled Alice Springs Chicken

Why is it called Alice Springs Chicken?

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative, but they will have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts. Many people prefer thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate jalapeños into the honey mustard sauce or top your dish with spicy sriracha sauce for an extra kick. You can also experiment with spicy cheese, such as pepper jack.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can marinate the chicken and cook the bacon in advance. However, it’s best to assemble and grill the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you’re in a time crunch, prepping the components beforehand can save you some time on the day of cooking.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free bacon and honey mustard sauce. Double-check the labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.

By following these steps, you can recreate the iconic Grilled Alice Springs Chicken at home and enjoy its mouthwatering flavors anytime! With the tips for customization, you can tailor the dish to your tastes or dietary needs while still maintaining the core flavors that make it so irresistible.

Grilled Alice Springs Chicken Recipe: Easy & Delicious