Short Description

Alice Springs Chicken is a popular dish inspired by Outback Steakhouse: juicy seasoned chicken breasts are topped with honey mustard sauce and melted Monterey Jack cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy honey mustard sauce perfect for pairing with baked chicken
Savory grilling flavors enhanced by paprika, salt, and pepper
Molten Monterey Jack cheese adds gooey richness
Simple one-pan baking method makes preparation easy
Great served with a side salad, veggies, or roasted potatoes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 chicken breasts (each sliced horizontally in half)
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

Honey Mustard Sauce:

⅓ cup mayonnaise
1 Tbsp honey
2 tsp stone‑ground mustard

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
Season both sides of each chicken breast half with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat a few tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts on both sides until golden, then transfer them to a 9×13‑inch baking dish in a single layer.
Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise, honey, and stone‑ground mustard in a small bowl to create the honey mustard sauce.
Spread the sauce evenly over each chicken breast in the baking dish. Then sprinkle or layer the 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165 °F) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately with additional honey mustard sauce on the side if desired.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Serves about 4 people
Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes (includes browning chicken and making sauce)
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~35–45 minutes

Variations

Use Colby Jack or Cheddar for a sharper cheese flavor
Switch mayo for plain Greek yogurt to lighten the sauce
Add sliced mushrooms or onions beneath the cheese before baking for extra texture
Substitute smoked paprika or chili powder for a spicier version
Bake chicken parts skin-on if preferred for more texture and flavor

Storage/Reheating

To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350 °F until heated through and cheese is slightly melty again. Alternatively, microwave briefly and finish under the broiler for a crisp top.

FAQs

How Do I Slice Chicken Breasts Horizontally?
Place each breast flat on a cutting board and carefully use a sharp knife to split it into two thinner cutlets, like opening a book.

Can I Use Cheddar Instead Of Monterey Jack?
Yes—Cheddar or Colby Jack work well. They melt nicely and lend a sharper flavor compared to Monterey Jack.

Is Marinating The Chicken Necessary?
No—the seasoning on the outside is sufficient, and browning before baking helps seal in moisture and flavor.

What If I Don’t Have Stone-Ground Mustard?
Regular Dijon or yellow mustard can be used instead—flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes—use vegan cheese and substitute mayo with a plant-based alternative to create a dairy‑free version.

How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Fully Cooked?
Chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165 °F. Juices should run clear, and meat should no longer be pink inside.

What Should I Serve With Alice Springs Chicken?
Works well with side salad, steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or garlic mashed potatoes.

Can I Prepare This In Advance?
You can brown the chicken ahead and prepare the sauce, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How Do I Keep The Cheese From Getting Too Brown?
If the cheese is browning too quickly in the oven, loosely tent the baking dish with foil during the final 10 minutes of baking.

Can I Adjust Sweetness Level In The Sauce?
Yes—reduce or increase honey to taste, or substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Conclusion

This Alice Springs Chicken is a comforting, cheesy, and easy-to-make dish with classic flavors. With perfectly seasoned and browned chicken topped with honey mustard sauce and melted Monterey Jack cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing skillet bake ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Customize sauce sweetness, cheese type, and seasonings to suit your taste and enjoy every tender, flavorful bite!