Alice Springs Inspired Honey Mustard Chicken Breast

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 thoroughly until well combined. Set aside 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing for later use, then cover the remaining dressing and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Breasts

Take two large skinless, boneless chicken breasts and split them horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Lay them out on a tray and season generously with salt, lemon pepper, and onion powder on both sides.

Step 3: Apply Honey Mustard to Chicken

Drizzle a small amount of the reserved honey mustard dressing onto one side of each seasoned chicken breast. Use a brush to spread the dressing evenly. Flip the chicken breasts and repeat the process on the other side.

Step 4: Sear Chicken Breasts

Heat a cast iron braiser or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of bacon grease. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan, ensuring they are not too close together to avoid steaming. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. If they start to get too dark, lower the heat. The chicken will not be cooked all the way through at this stage.

Step 5: Prepare Mushrooms

Remove the seared chicken breasts from the pan and place them on a clean cookie sheet, covering them with a towel. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same pan and let it melt, mixing with the remaining bacon grease. Add 8 ounces of sliced baby bella mushrooms and sauté for about 6 minutes until softened and browned. Turn off the heat.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (≈190°C) (approximately 190°C) (190°C (≈375°F) (approximately 375°F)). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared dish. Top each chicken breast with the sautéed mushrooms, followed by the chopped cooked bacon. Generously cover each piece with 2 cups of freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese. Cover the baking dish lightly with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Finish Baking

Place the covered baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 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 8: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Top with a little more bacon and mushrooms if desired. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard dressing over the chicken breasts and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of side, such as oven-roasted red potatoes.

• If the chicken starts to get too dark while searing, lower the heat.

• Ensure chicken breasts are split horizontally to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.

• For best results, use freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese.

• Serve with oven-roasted potatoes or a crisp cold salad.

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

• Use your favorite cheese instead of Monterey Jack.