If you've ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know that their Alice Springs Chicken is one of the most irresistible dishes on the menu. This juicy, oven-baked chicken breast is topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions, creating the perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors. The best part? You can recreate this restaurant favorite right at home with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.
This copycat Alice Springs Chicken recipe is so simple that you'll wonder why you ever paid restaurant prices for it. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Let's dive into the step-by-step process to make this Outback classic in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Alice Springs Chicken, you'll need the following:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The base of the dish, providing a lean and tender protein.
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon – Adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the chicken.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhances the flavors of the chicken. Add to taste.
- 1/3 cup chopped green onions – Brings a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create six thinner fillets.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
- While the chicken is baking, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the bacon from the pan before it turns crispy, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Set the bacon aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Step 5: Add the Bacon
- Remove the chicken from the oven after 25 minutes.
- Cut each bacon slice in half and place one half on each chicken fillet.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Take the dish out again, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a pop of freshness and color.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tastes Just Like the Restaurant Version – Enjoy the same flavors without leaving your house!
- Simple Ingredients – No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Easy to Make – Perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Budget-Friendly – Skip the expensive restaurant bill and make it at home for a fraction of the cost.
Pro Tips for the Best Alice Springs Chicken
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture. It should be slightly undercooked before adding it to the chicken so it doesn’t turn too crispy in the oven.
- Shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mix of honey, Dijon mustard, and a little mayonnaise before baking. This adds a tangy sweetness that enhances the dish.
- Want more crunch? Add crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy bacon chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery side to balance the savory chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Vegetables – A healthy addition to round out the meal.
- Texas Toast or Dinner Rolls – Great for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.
- Side Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing – Adds freshness and a touch of sweetness that complements the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Alice Springs Chicken copycat recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal at home. With juicy baked chicken, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheddar, and fresh green onions, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Skip the trip to Outback Steakhouse and make this easy, budget-friendly version in your own kitchen tonight. Once you taste how good it is, you'll never look back!
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out!