This Alice Springs Chicken combines juicy, pan-seared chicken with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and the perfect honey mustard drizzle. Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors that will leave you craving more. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a cozy date night. The dish is easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones. Plus, it’s so visually appealing with the golden cheese and crispy bacon on top!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup honey mustard dressing
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
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Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
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Drizzle each chicken breast with honey mustard dressing, then sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
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Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origin of Alice Springs Chicken
Named after a town in the Australian Outback, Alice Springs Chicken has become a signature dish in many homes and restaurants. Despite its exotic name, the recipe’s appeal lies in its hearty and familiar flavors. The dish typically includes grilled or seared chicken breasts, topped with bacon, melted cheese, and a drizzle of honey mustard sauce. The key to Alice Springs Chicken’s success is its perfect balance of savory, smoky, and sweet elements that cater to different taste preferences.
Though it originally hails from a restaurant chain, its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite for home cooks who want to recreate the dish in a more personalized way. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing something special for guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why Alice Springs Chicken is the Best Comfort Food Recipe
What makes Alice Springs Chicken stand out from other chicken dishes is its incredible ability to combine so many complementary flavors in one dish. The crispy bacon adds an irresistible crunch, while the melty cheddar cheese gives the chicken a creamy and indulgent texture. The honey mustard sauce, with its subtle sweetness and tanginess, elevates the dish to a whole new level. Together, these components make for a truly satisfying meal that’s sure to hit the spot every time.
Additionally, this recipe is adaptable to different cooking methods and dietary preferences. You can grill the chicken for a smoky char, sear it for a crispy crust, or even bake it for a more hands-off approach. The use of simple, wholesome ingredients ensures that this dish remains both comforting and nutritious. With the option to swap out certain elements, such as the cheese or the type of mustard, you can easily cater this dish to your tastes and dietary needs.
Benefits of Alice Springs Chicken
- High in Protein and Low in Carbs: One of the standout benefits of Alice Springs Chicken is that it’s packed with protein from the chicken breast and bacon, making it a filling meal that will keep you satisfied for hours. If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, this dish fits perfectly into your meal plan since it’s free from breading or heavy sauces that typically add unnecessary carbs.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Despite its indulgent nature, Alice Springs Chicken is surprisingly simple to make. The preparation time is minimal, and the dish doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Great for Meal Prep: Because the chicken can be made in bulk and stored in the fridge, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can cook a few extra servings, and the dish will keep well for a couple of days. Simply reheat and enjoy a quick, delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- Customizable to Your Taste: This recipe is highly adaptable, meaning you can experiment with different flavors. For example, if you prefer spicy food, you can add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes on top of the honey mustard. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, swap it out for mozzarella or another cheese of your choice. You can even add vegetables like mushrooms or onions to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
How to Serve Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken can be served with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich, savory flavors. If you want to keep things simple, pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. The smoky bacon and tangy honey mustard work wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or even rice pilaf. For a low-carb option, serve it with sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
A Dish That Fits Any Occasion
This recipe isn’t just for casual weeknight dinners – Alice Springs Chicken is versatile enough to serve at any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, a family get-together, or a festive holiday meal, it’s a guaranteed hit. The dish is elegant yet easy to make, making it the perfect option for when you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s also a great choice for special events or celebrations where comfort food is the star of the show.
How to Make Alice Springs Chicken Even Healthier
Although Alice Springs Chicken is already a relatively healthy meal, there are a few simple tweaks you can make to lighten it up even more. For example, you could substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon to cut down on fat, or use a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella instead of full-fat cheddar. You can also opt for a homemade honey mustard dressing with less sugar or use a sugar-free alternative. These small changes won’t compromise the flavor but can help reduce the calorie content of the dish.
Why Alice Springs Chicken is a Favorite for Families
Families love Alice Springs Chicken because it’s a complete meal in one. The chicken provides lean protein, while the bacon and cheese add richness and flavor. The sweet honey mustard ties everything together in a way that appeals to both kids and adults. Additionally, because the recipe is so customizable, it’s easy to adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Whether your kids love extra cheese or prefer a bit of spice, Alice Springs Chicken can be made to suit everyone at the table.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
When time is short, Alice Springs Chicken can be your go-to dish. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in less than 40 minutes. This is especially useful when you’re juggling work, school, and other commitments. The recipe requires only a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, which makes it even more convenient.
Conclusion
Alice Springs Chicken is a foolproof dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal for any meal occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe delivers on every front. It’s quick, easy, customizable, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy comfort food without compromising on taste or nutrition. With its combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and sweet honey mustard, Alice Springs Chicken is a dish that will become a favorite in your household for years to come.