Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are flavorful and stay juicy. Just adjust the baking time—thighs may take a little longer. Slice them thinner if they're especially large for faster cooking.

What’s the best way to prep this dish ahead?

You can pre-bake the chicken and partially cook the bacon up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to eat, assemble with bacon and cheese before the final short bake.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of your favorites all work beautifully. Sharp cheddar is classic for its intense flavor, but don’t hesitate to use what you love or have on hand.

Is honey mustard essential to this recipe?

While the original Outback version often comes with honey mustard on the side, the baked version is delicious without. If you want that tangy-sweet flavor note, serve some for dipping—but it’s optional.

Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Name: Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slices thick-cut bacon; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that feels absolutely decadent but comes together with very little effort, look no further than this Alice Springs Chicken recipe. Inspired by the beloved Outback Steakhouse classic, this dish features juicy, tender chicken breasts topped with smoky bacon, gooey melted cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. Every bite is bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy nights when you want big results with minimal fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a cheesy, savory, downright irresistible meal in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Fast: This restaurant-style dinner is ready in under 50 minutes, prep included. The steps are straightforward and easy to follow, even if you’re new to cooking.
Huge Flavor: Between the savory chicken, crispy-edged bacon, and that generous layer of melted cheddar, there’s no shortage of crave-worthy flavor.
Minimal Ingredients: No shopping for specialty sauces or hard-to-find spices. Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
Family Friendly: Both kids and adults go crazy over this cheesy, bacon-topped chicken. It never fails to earn compliments.
Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: Pre-cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time, and dinner is just moments away when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The backbone of the dish; slice in half for faster cooking and more surface area for toppings.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Adds that unbeatable smoky flavor; make sure to partially cook it first so it crisps up perfectly in the oven.
Cheddar Cheese (shredded): The gooier, the better. Use sharp cheddar for the most flavor, and shred it fresh if possible for better melting.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out the best in your chicken.
Green Onions: Sprinkled on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor; don’t skip these if you can help it, they balance the richness perfectly.

Tip: For a slightly lighter version, opt for turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheese, but keep in mind this changes the classic richness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feeling adventurous or want to work with what you have? Try these simple twists:

Add Sliced Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms and add them under the cheese for an earthy kick.
Drizzle Honey Mustard: Classic Alice Springs Chicken is often served with honey mustard. Drizzle some over the chicken before the bacon and cheese for extra tang.
Use Monterey Jack Cheese: Or mix it with the cheddar for a creamier melt.
Swap Chicken for Turkey Cutlets: An easy swap that works just as well.
Add Jalapeños: For a little heat and Southwestern flair, thinly slice and scatter on with the cheese.

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it heats, slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook faster and ensures more crispy corners. Season each side of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Bake for about 25 minutes, until just cooked through and juicy. Avoid overcooking—it will finish in the oven with toppings soon.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While the chicken is baking, cook your thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat. You want to render the fat but keep the bacon pliable, not crispy. This way, it crisps perfectly in the oven without drying out.

Step 4: Layer and Bake Again

Remove the partially cooked chicken from the oven. Cut your bacon strips in half and lay them neatly over each piece of chicken. Slide the dish back into the oven for another 10 minutes. This step infuses the chicken with smoky bacon flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Take out the chicken one more time. Generously blanket each piece with shredded cheddar. Bake an additional 5 minutes—watch how the cheese bubbles and melts into the bacon!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is enticingly gooey, pull everything from the oven. Scatter a handful of chopped green onions over the top for freshness. Serve hot and listen for those delighted dinner-table sighs.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but grating your own from a block gives you a meltier, creamier topping.
Partially Cook the Bacon: Don’t skip this! If you put raw bacon straight on the chicken, it won’t crisp before your chicken dries out.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest a minute or two after baking for juicier results.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Leave space around the chicken so it bakes evenly and the cheese doesn’t simply pool in the pan.

How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken

This chicken is indulgent and satisfying all on its own, but pairings can take it even further:

With Sides: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a crisp garden salad to balance all the richness.
On a Sandwich: Tuck leftovers in a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a decadent chicken sandwich.
With Honey Mustard Sauce: Offer a small bowl on the side for dipping—many claim this takes the dish to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cooled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the bacon crisp by letting it sit on top of the chicken.

Freezing

You can freeze Alice Springs Chicken! Wrap individual pieces well or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, warm in a 350°F oven until heated through to maintain the cheese texture. The microwave works in a pinch, but the bacon may lose crispness.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are flavorful and stay juicy. Just adjust the baking time—thighs may take a little longer. Slice them thinner if they’re especially large for faster cooking.
What’s the best way to prep this dish ahead?

You can pre-bake the chicken and partially cook the bacon up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to eat, assemble with bacon and cheese before the final short bake.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of your favorites all work beautifully. Sharp cheddar is classic for its intense flavor, but don’t hesitate to use what you love or have on hand.
Is honey mustard essential to this recipe?

While the original Outback version often comes with honey mustard on the side, the baked version is delicious without. If you want that tangy-sweet flavor note, serve some for dipping—but it’s optional.

Final Thoughts

Give this Alice Springs Chicken a place in your weeknight recipe rotation and prepare to be wowed by how such simple steps turn into something so satisfying. With savory bacon, melty cheese, and juicy chicken in every bite, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—try a twist, add a side, or get creative with garnishes. Gather your ingredients and enjoy a meal that feels truly special, even on the busiest night.