If there’s one dish I could eat on repeat, it’s Alice Springs Chicken. This recipe brings together so many of my favorite flavors—honey mustard, smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and melted cheese—all in one bite. The very first time I tried it at a restaurant, I knew I had to recreate it at home. After some testing and tweaking, I’ve landed on a version that’s not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly easy to make.

There’s something deeply comforting about the combination of tender chicken baked under a layer of crispy bacon and gooey cheese, all resting on a bed of rich, tangy honey mustard sauce. I love serving it up when I want to impress friends, but it’s also a family favorite on busy weeknights. Whether you’re chasing comforting dinner ideas or easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor, this one checks every box.

Why You’ll Love This Alice Springs Chicken

It’s restaurant-quality, made right in your kitchen. You’ll impress guests or just treat yourself to a dish that feels like it came from a steakhouse.
Incredible flavor layers. From the smoky-sweet honey mustard to the crispy bacon and sharp cheddar, every bite delivers.
Easy to prepare. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s weeknight-friendly.
Versatile. Pair it with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or even a crisp salad for a complete meal.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Alice Springs Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the classic choice for this dish. They’re lean, juicy when cooked right, and offer the perfect surface area for all that cheesy, saucy goodness. That said, you can absolutely use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer something a little richer and more forgiving when it comes to cook time. Just be sure to pound them slightly so they cook evenly.

Another tip? If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This not only speeds up cooking time but also ensures every bite is loaded with sauce and topping.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with pantry limitations or dietary preferences, there are plenty of ways to adapt this dish:

Cheese: Cheddar is the classic, but Monterey Jack or a smoky gouda adds a lovely twist.
Bacon: Turkey bacon works well if you’re avoiding pork, or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version (just swap the chicken for portobello mushrooms).
Honey Mustard: You can make your own (more on that later) or use store-bought if you’re in a rush. If you’re watching sugar, opt for a low-sugar version or use a blend of Dijon and a touch of maple syrup.
Mushrooms: The original dish includes sautéed mushrooms, which are optional but add great umami depth. Feel free to leave them out or replace with caramelized onions.
Gluten-Free: Just make sure your mustard and bacon are certified gluten-free—most are, but it’s always good to check.

Ingredients for Alice Springs Chicken

Each ingredient in Alice Springs Chicken plays a specific role in building that rich, comforting flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are hearty, tender when cooked properly, and perfect for soaking up flavor.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that balances the sweetness of the honey mustard and richness of the cheese. It also renders fat that enhances the overall flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, giving you that gooey, golden topping. Sharp cheddar works best for a bold, punchy bite.
Honey: This sweet element is key to the signature honey mustard sauce. It cuts through the savoriness and gives the sauce balance.
Dijon Mustard: Provides tang and complexity to the honey mustard sauce. It’s what makes the dish pop with flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the sauce, helping it coat the chicken evenly and stay rich without being overpowering.
Garlic Powder: Offers a gentle, savory depth without overwhelming the sauce—just enough to round out the flavors.
Paprika: Lends subtle smokiness and a hint of color to the chicken seasoning.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing every other ingredient.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A pop of freshness and color at the end, giving the dish that finished, vibrant look.

Step 1: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a pinch of garlic powder. Taste and adjust – add a little more honey for sweetness or more mustard for tang. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of oil, then sear the chicken on each side until golden brown—about 3–4 minutes per side. It doesn’t need to cook through just yet; it’ll finish in the oven. Transfer to a baking dish.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet, fry the bacon until crisp. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. If you’re using mushrooms, sauté them in the remaining bacon grease until browned and tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Brush each chicken breast generously with the honey mustard sauce. Spoon on sautéed mushrooms if using, then top with the crispy bacon and a good handful of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled chicken in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Remove from the oven and let it rest a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a bright, herby contrast.

How Long to Cook Alice Springs Chicken

Cooking time for Alice Springs Chicken is typically around 20 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) after searing. This ensures the chicken cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while keeping it juicy. If you’ve sliced your chicken breasts thinner or pounded them out, they may cook even faster—so keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to be sure.

If you’re using thicker pieces or boneless thighs, you may need an extra 5 minutes. Don’t forget: the cheese should be fully melted and bubbly, and the bacon should look lightly crisped on top.

Tips for Perfect Alice Springs Chicken

Don’t skip the sear. Searing locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust before it hits the oven.
Let the sauce sit. Allowing your honey mustard sauce to rest while prepping the other ingredients gives it time to meld and deepen in flavor.
Use room-temperature chicken. It cooks more evenly than cold-from-the-fridge meat and helps avoid drying out the edges.
Crisp your bacon separately. Some recipes bake everything together from the start, but cooking the bacon ahead guarantees it stays crispy and doesn’t go rubbery.
Generously layer your toppings. Don’t hold back on the sauce, bacon, or cheese—this is what makes the dish so rich and comforting.
Rest before serving. Let the chicken sit a few minutes after baking so juices redistribute and the toppings settle.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a recipe as comforting as Alice Springs Chicken can go sideways if you’re not paying attention to the little things. Here’s what to avoid to make sure yours turns out flawless:

Overcooking the Chicken: This is the biggest pitfall. Use a thermometer and pull the chicken at exactly 165°F. Overcooked chicken turns dry fast.
Skipping the Sear: It’s tempting to go straight to the oven, but searing adds a golden crust and a ton of flavor.
Using Too Much Sauce Too Soon: If you drown the chicken before baking, the sauce can split. Start with a generous layer, but save some for drizzling at the end.
Cheese Browning Too Quickly: If your cheese starts to brown before the chicken is done, loosely tent the dish with foil.
Uneven Chicken Thickness: Always pound thicker parts or slice breasts in half to ensure even cooking.
Not Draining Bacon Fat: After frying bacon, drain most of the fat—leaving just enough to cook mushrooms or add flavor without making the dish greasy.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as well due to anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
Serving Immediately Out of the Oven: Let the chicken rest a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps everything moist.

What to Serve With Alice Springs Chicken?

Alice Springs Chicken is rich, savory, and packed with bold flavors, so it pairs beautifully with sides that balance or complement it.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food pairing—perfect for scooping up that honey mustard sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds crunch and a bit of bitterness to offset the rich chicken and cheese. Roast it with garlic and lemon for extra flavor.

Garden Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the heaviness and keeps the meal balanced.

Garlic Bread

Thick slices of toasted garlic bread are great for mopping up sauce, and they add another comforting carb to the plate.

Cauliflower Gratin

If you want something cozy but a bit lighter than potatoes, cheesy cauliflower is a creamy, satisfying choice.

Pickled Veggies

A tangy side like pickled cucumbers or red onions adds a zingy contrast to all the richness.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, smoky corn is an easy, seasonal side that works really well with the honey mustard flavor.

Sautéed Mushrooms

If you didn’t add mushrooms to the chicken, serve them on the side for an earthy, umami kick.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about Alice Springs Chicken? It stores like a dream. Whether you’re meal-prepping or lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

Refrigerator: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. To prevent drying out, cover with foil or add a spoonful of water or extra honey mustard sauce before reheating. The microwave works too—just heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken (toppings and all), but keep in mind that the cheese and sauce may change texture slightly. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Alice Springs Chicken (assuming a serving includes one medium chicken breast, cheese, sauce, and bacon):

Calories: 520–600 kcal
Protein: 45g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands and serving sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be white throughout (not pink).

Can I make Alice Springs Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish (chicken, sauce, bacon, cheese) and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if going straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check that your mustard, bacon, and seasonings are certified gluten-free. Also, avoid any sides with gluten unless you plan accordingly.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Absolutely. Grill the chicken first, then transfer it to a heatproof dish to top with sauce, bacon, and cheese. Place it under the broiler or back on the grill with the lid closed until the cheese melts.

What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t have cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked provolone work beautifully. Use something that melts well and has enough flavor to stand up to the sauce and bacon.

Can I make it without mayonnaise?

Yes, though it changes the texture of the honey mustard sauce. Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy effect, though it will have a slight tang.

Is Alice Springs Chicken spicy?

Nope! It’s flavorful but not spicy. If you want a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?

You can thicken it by whisking in a little extra mayo or by simmering the sauce for a few minutes in a small saucepan before adding it to the chicken.

Conclusion

Alice Springs Chicken is everything you want in a comfort food meal—creamy, smoky, cheesy, and packed with layers of flavor. It’s an easy dinner recipe that feels fancy enough for a weekend but quick enough for a weeknight. From the first bite of juicy, honey mustard-glazed chicken to the last bit of melty cheese, this dish delivers every time.

Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, Alice Springs Chicken is bound to become a favorite in your rotation.