Introduction

There’s something so comforting about recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home. Alice Springs Chicken, a beloved Outback Steakhouse dish, is one of those recipes that combines simple ingredients into an unforgettable dinner. With juicy chicken breasts, smoky bacon, rich melted cheddar, and fresh green onions, every bite feels like a cozy, satisfying indulgence.

What makes this recipe so special is how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just a few pantry staples and about 40 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent enough for a weekend dinner yet easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Whether you’ve had Alice Springs Chicken at the restaurant or you’re trying it for the first time, this copycat recipe delivers those same bold flavors right at your table. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a family-friendly comfort food meal everyone will ask for again.

 

 

What You Need

Main Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – tender and juicy, sliced in half for quicker cooking.
• Thick-cut bacon – partially cooked for flavor and crispness as it bakes.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – melty and rich, the signature topping.
• Green onions – fresh garnish to balance the richness.
• Salt and pepper – simple seasoning that lets the flavors shine.

 

 

How to Make Alice Springs Chicken

1. Prep Oven & Chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice 3 chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Partially Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until fat renders but they’re not crispy.
3. Bake Chicken: Place chicken in a baking dish and bake 25 minutes.
4. Add Bacon & Bake Again: Cut bacon slices in half and layer over chicken. Bake 10 minutes more.
5. Add Cheese: Top chicken with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Bake another 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with ⅓ cup chopped green onions and serve warm.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy dinner recipe with minimal prep.
• Restaurant-quality flavors without the bill.
• Family-friendly comfort food perfect for weeknights.
• Naturally gluten-free with no flour or breading.
• Versatile – pairs with pasta, rice, potatoes, or veggies.

 

Tips for Success

• Slice chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
• Don’t overcook bacon before baking—it will crisp up in the oven.
• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor balance.
• Add a drizzle of honey mustard sauce if you want the full Outback-style experience.

 

 

Variations

• Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack or a cheddar–mozzarella blend.
• Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• Saucy version: Layer with honey mustard or barbecue sauce under the cheese.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I make Alice Springs Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes—cook chicken on low 4–5 hours, add bacon and cheese in the last 30 minutes.

2. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the chicken and bacon in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely, though it may cook faster.

4. Can I grill the chicken first?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor before finishing in the oven.

5. What sides go best?
Mashed potatoes, baked sweet potatoes, rice pilaf, or a side salad.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your bacon and cheese are gluten-free.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container up to 2 months.

8. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but increase baking time and ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.

9. How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake covered at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

10. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and add a few minutes to cook time.

 

 

Health Benefits

• High protein from chicken and cheese supports muscle health.
• Calcium-rich from cheddar for bone strength.
• B-vitamins in bacon and chicken help with energy.
• Onions provide antioxidants and immune support.

 

 

How to Serve

Serve Alice Springs Chicken hot with a starch (mashed potatoes, rice, or fries) and a vegetable side (green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots). It also works well as a sandwich filling in a toasted bun.

 

 

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Assemble chicken with bacon up to a day before baking.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Store baked chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

 

Conclusion

Alice Springs Chicken is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. With juicy chicken, savory bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a family-friendly dinner you’ll come back to again and again.