Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
Alice Springs Chicken Recipe brings steakhouse flavor home with juicy grilled chicken breasts, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and a double layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, all topped with a homemade honey mustard sauce. This easy Alice Springs Chicken Recipe uses simple ingredients and requires no special equipment, making it perfect for home cooks. Marinate the chicken, cook the toppings, assemble, and broil for a cheesy finish. Try it with mashed potatoes or a side salad. For a lighter version, swap in low-fat cheese or chicken thighs. Enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal any night.
Equipment
- Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
- Baking Dish
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or Spatula
Ingredients
- 4 skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of bacon crispy cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Sauté the Mushrooms
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, set the bacon aside on a paper towel to drain the excess fat, then crumble it into small pieces.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and onions. Sauté them in the leftover bacon fat for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and develop some color. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice to create a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Alice Springs Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle each breast with a generous amount of the honey mustard sauce. Top with sautéed mushrooms and onions, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the chicken.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal!
Notes
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Cheese Choices: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or cheddar cheese all melt well and add great flavor. Mix and match based on what you have.
- Bacon Options: Use regular, turkey, or even plant-based bacon to suit your dietary needs.
- Mushroom Tips: Sauté mushrooms until golden and their liquid has evaporated for the best texture and taste.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the marinade, sauce, and toppings in advance and assemble just before baking.
- Sauce Shortcuts: Store-bought honey mustard works if you’re short on time, but homemade gives a fresher flavor.
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat; just adjust the cooking time.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Low Carb/Healthy Swaps: Use light mayo, low-fat cheese, or a sugar-free honey substitute for a lighter version.
- Serving Ideas: Great with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.