Craving the flavorful and hearty Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse? You’re in luck! This copycat recipe brings the savory taste of Alice Springs Chicken right to your kitchen. With juicy chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Alice Springs Chicken, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken:
- In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Top with Bacon and Cheese:
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Top each chicken breast with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Serve:
- Serve the Alice Springs Chicken hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
- Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more even cooking.
- Bacon Grease: Using the bacon grease to sear the chicken adds extra flavor, but you can use olive oil or butter if preferred.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
Variations:
- Keto Version:
- Ensure the cheddar cheese and bacon used are keto-friendly.
- Serve with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables.
- Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version tips and avoid high-carb sides.
- Spicy Version:
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken before baking for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version:
- Substitute the chicken with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu and follow the same steps for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Cook it the same way as pork bacon.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Alice Springs Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble the dish ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
4. What can I serve with Alice Springs Chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon to save time. Simply crumble it over the chicken before adding the cheese.
Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. With crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and juicy chicken breasts, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this copycat recipe brings the taste of Outback Steakhouse right to your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and hearty meal. Happy cooking!
