Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and often stay even more tender during cooking. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through, but they'll deliver amazing flavor.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer, which should register 165°F in the thickest part of the breast. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part – the meat should be completely white with no pink remaining, and juices should run clear.

What can I substitute for the Dijon mustard?

While Dijon gives the most authentic flavor, you can substitute whole grain mustard for texture or yellow mustard for a milder flavor. Spicy brown mustard also works well if you prefer more kick. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile to your sauce.

Can I make this dish without the honey mustard marinade?

While the honey mustard marinade adds signature flavor, you could simplify by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before searing. Serve with a store-bought honey mustard sauce on the side. The dish won't be quite the same but will still be delicious with the bacon, mushroom, and cheese toppings.

Alice Springs Chicken Copycat Recipe

Description

A delicious copycat recipe for Alice Springs Chicken featuring perfectly marinated and seasoned chicken breasts topped with bacon, sauteed mushrooms, two kinds of cheese, and a homemade honey mustard sauce.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken and Toppings

2 cups sliced white mushrooms
2 tablespoons butter
4 boneless chicken breasts, halved
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Paprika, to taste
8 slices bacon, cooked
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Honey Mustard Marinade

1 cup Grey Poupon Dijon mustard
1 cup honey
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon juice

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Instructions

Prepare the Honey Mustard Marinade: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Use an electric mixer to whip the mixture for about 30 seconds until well blended.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the halved chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour in about one-third of the honey mustard marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for about 2 hours. Reserve the remaining marinade in the refrigerator for later use.
Saute the Mushrooms: In a small frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and saute for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown. Set aside.
Sear the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag and discard the used marinade. In an ovenproof frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove the pan from heat but leave the chicken in the pan.
Assemble the Toppings: Brush each seared chicken breast with a small amount of the reserved honey mustard marinade. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Lay 2 pieces of cooked bacon crosswise on top of each chicken breast. Evenly spoon the sauteed mushrooms over the bacon. Sprinkle ¼ cup Monterey Jack cheese onto each chicken breast, followed by ¼ cup cheddar cheese.
Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 275°F. Place the pan with the prepared chicken into the oven and bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle each chicken breast with ½ teaspoon finely chopped parsley. Serve immediately with the remaining honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Ensure the chicken is evenly marinated for the best flavor.
Adjust the quantity of honey mustard sauce according to personal preference when serving.
You can prepare the honey mustard marinade a day in advance to save time.
For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon or a smoked cheese variety.
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 365
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 95mg