Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken

Ingredients

3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts

6 slices of thick-cut bacon

2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

⅓ C. Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise.

Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, and bake for 25 minutes.

While the chicken is cooking, partially cook the bacon until the fat is all rendered from it, but it is not crispy yet.

Remove the chicken from the oven, cut each piece of bacon in half and place the strips of bacon on top of each piece of chicken.

Return the chicken to the oven and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Remove the chicken again, top with the shredded cheese and bake another 5 minutes.

Top with green onions for garnish before serving.

Notes:

Classic Flavor Combination: This recipe features a classic combination of juicy chicken, savory bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that appeals to many tastes.

Simple Preparation: With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Slicing the chicken breasts and seasoning them with salt and pepper is easy, making it suitable for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Baking Method: Baking the chicken allows for even cooking and ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy. This method also allows the flavors of the bacon and cheese to meld together with the chicken, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.

Customization Options: While the recipe provides specific instructions, there is room for customization based on personal preferences. Home cooks can adjust the seasoning, experiment with different types of cheese, or add additional ingredients to suit their tastes.

Garnish with Green Onions: Adding chopped green onions as a garnish provides a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish, balancing out the richness of the chicken, bacon, and cheese. It also adds a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.

Grilling Option: The recipe offers an alternative cooking method for those who prefer grilling. This adds versatility to the recipe and allows individuals to adapt it based on their cooking preferences and available equipment.

Make-Ahead Tips: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, the notes provide suggestions for preparing components of the dish in advance. This can be helpful for meal planning and streamlining the cooking process, especially when entertaining guests.

Serving Suggestions: The recipe suggests various side dishes that pair well with the Alice Springs Chicken, offering flexibility and allowing individuals to customize their meal according to their preferences. This enhances the overall dining experience and ensures a well-rounded meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use turkey bacon or a different type of bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon or any other type of bacon you prefer.

Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While the recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

What side dishes go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad.

Choose sides that complement the flavors of the chicken, bacon, and cheese.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken breasts instead of baking them.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked.

Then, follow the remaining steps of the recipe.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

While the recipe calls for boneless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in chicken if you prefer.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, you can use leaner cuts of chicken, reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese, and use leaner bacon options.

Baking instead of frying the bacon can also reduce the fat content.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance.

Slice the chicken and partially cook the bacon, then assemble and bake just before serving to maintain the texture and flavors.

What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with various sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, a side salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even buttered corn on the cob.