Alice Springs Chicken Breast - Outback Steakhouse Inspired

Step 1: Prepare Honey Mustard Dressing

In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup honey. Whisk until well combined. Set aside 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing for later use. Cover the remaining dressing and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Breasts

Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and split them horizontally to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, lemon pepper, and onion powder.

Step 3: Brush Chicken with Honey Mustard

Drizzle and brush the reserved 2-3 tablespoons of honey mustard dressing onto both sides of the seasoned chicken breasts.

Step 4: Sear Chicken

Heat a cast iron braiser or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of bacon grease. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. If they darken too quickly, lower the heat. The chicken will not be cooked through at this stage.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

While the chicken is searing, preheat your oven to 375°F (≈190°C) (approximately 190°C) (190°C (≈375°F) (approximately 375°F)).

Step 6: Remove Chicken

Once seared, remove the chicken breasts from the pan and place them on a clean cookie sheet. Cover them lightly and set aside.

Step 7: Sauté Mushrooms

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same pan. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add 8 ounces of sliced baby bella mushrooms. Sauté for about 6 minutes until softened and browned.

Step 8: Prepare Baking Dish

Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.

Step 9: Assemble Chicken

Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Top each chicken breast with the sautéed mushrooms, followed by the pre-cooked and chopped bacon.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Generously sprinkle 2 cups of freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken, mushrooms, and bacon.

Step 11: Bake Chicken

Cover the baking dish lightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (≈75°C) (approximately 75°C) (74°C (≈165°F) (approximately 165°F)) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven. Top with additional chopped bacon and a drizzle of the remaining honey mustard dressing, if desired. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately, perhaps with oven-roasted red potatoes or a fresh salad.

• If chicken darkens too quickly during searing, lower the heat.

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking.

• Do not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken to ensure proper browning.

• Keep extra honey mustard dressing on the side for serving, as it's a popular addition.

• Add finely chopped onions to sauté with the mushrooms for extra flavor.

• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or a blend, instead of Monterey Jack.

• Serve with a fresh, crisp salad or your favorite roasted vegetables instead of potatoes.