The Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse is a cult favorite for good reason: juicy grilled chicken smothered in melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, crispy bacon, honey mustard, and sautéed mushrooms—all piled high on a toasted bun. It’s rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.
Now, you can make this restaurant classic at home with simple ingredients and no special equipment. No need to drive across town—your kitchen just became Outback!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍗 All the bold flavors of Outback—in half the time
- ⏱️ 25 minutes total
- 💛 One skillet = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $10—feeds 2–4
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free (with GF bun)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 2–4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper
- 4 slices bacon, cooked until crisp
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup sliced cremini or white mushrooms
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4–6 slices Monterey Jack cheese
- 2–4 slices chedar cheese
- ¼ cup honey mustard (store-bought or homemade*)
For Serving:
- 2 brioche buns or ciabatta rolls, toasted
- Optional: lettuce, tomato, red onion
💡 Pro Tips:
- Pound chicken evenly—ensures quick, even cooking.
- Cook bacon first—use the drippings to sauté mushrooms for extra flavor!
- Cover with foil after adding cheese to melt quickly.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Savory, Cheesy, Foolproof)
1. Cook the Bacon
- Cook bacon until crisp; drain on paper towels. Crumble or leave whole. Set aside.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove; tent with foil.
3. Sauté Mushrooms
- In the same skillet (or use bacon drippings!), melt butter.
- Add mushrooms; cook 5–6 minutes until golden and tender. Remove from pan.
4. Assemble & Melt Cheese
- Return chicken to skillet. Top each breast with:
- Half the mushrooms
- Crumbled bacon
- 2–3 slices Monterey Jack + 1–2 slices cheddar
- Cover with lid or foil; cook 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
5. Build the Sandwich
- Spread honey mustard on both sides of toasted buns.
- Place cheesy chicken on bottom bun; top with lettuce/tomato if desired.
- Serve immediately—cheese waits for no one!
Homemade Honey Mustard (Optional but Worth It)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- Pinch of paprika
→ Whisk together. Done in 30 seconds!
Serving Suggestions
- 🥔 Classic pairing: Aussie Fries (seasoned fries with garlic and parsley)
- 🥗 Balanced plate: Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- 🍺 Drink pairing: Ice-cold lager or sparkling water with lime
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Cook components separately; assemble fresh.
- Reheat: Warm chicken/mushrooms in skillet; add fresh cheese.
- Not recommended: Fully assembled sandwiches don’t hold well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a GF bun or serve open-faced over greens.
A: Yes! Use a GF bun or serve open-faced over greens.
Q: No Monterey Jack?
A: Substitute with mozzarella or provolone—but Jack gives that signature melt.
A: Substitute with mozzarella or provolone—but Jack gives that signature melt.
Q: Can I grill the chicken?
A: Absolutely! Adds smoky flavor—just finish cheese under broiler.
A: Absolutely! Adds smoky flavor—just finish cheese under broiler.
Q: Too rich?
A: Add pickles or arugula for brightness and crunch.
A: Add pickles or arugula for brightness and crunch.
❤️ The Heart of the Dish
Alice Springs Chicken isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a flavor explosion that feels like a treat. It proves that indulgence and simplicity can coexist when you layer quality ingredients with care.
So sear that chicken, melt that cheese, and stack it high. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re cheesy, smoky, and made with love.
“Good food doesn’t need a restaurant—it just needs chicken, bacon, and someone hungry.” 🍗✨
