Outback Steakhouse Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Recreating This Iconic Dish at Home
Outback Steakhouse is celebrated for its bold flavors and hearty meals, and few dishes capture this better than the Outback Steakhouse Chicken. Known for its tender, juicy chicken breast smothered in melted cheese, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings the steakhouse experience right to your kitchen. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through every detail of preparing this delicious meal at home—from ingredients to step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients for Outback Steakhouse Chicken
To prepare the perfect Outback Chicken, you’ll need the following fresh, high-quality ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 pound |
| Sliced mushrooms | 1 cup |
| Chopped fresh parsley | 2 teaspoons |
| McCormick Season All seasoning | ½ teaspoon |
| Shredded Colby Jack cheese | 3 cups |
| Bacon strips, fried until crisp | 6 strips |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
For the Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce
This sauce is a signature part of the dish, and making it from scratch gives you that authentic flavor.
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Recreate Outback Steakhouse Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and remain juicy. Season both sides generously with McCormick Season All seasoning.
Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in a small portion of the honey mustard sauce for deeper flavor.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, fry 6 bacon strips over medium heat until they’re crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble or leave whole depending on your presentation preference.
Leave about a tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pan for added flavor in the next steps.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add your sliced mushrooms. Sauté them in the bacon drippings (or a bit of cooking oil if needed) over medium heat until they’re golden brown and tender—about 5–7 minutes.
Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sear and Cook the Chicken
Add a bit more cooking oil to the skillet if needed, then sear the seasoned chicken breasts over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 6–7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
Optional: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.
5. Assemble the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Top each chicken breast with the following in layers:
- A spoonful of sautéed mushrooms
- 1 slice or crumbled portion of crispy bacon
- A generous handful of Colby Jack cheese
Cover the skillet with a lid to let the cheese melt, or place under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
6. Final Touch: Honey Mustard Drizzle
Remove the cheesy, mushroom-and-bacon-covered chicken from the heat and drizzle each piece with the prepared honey mustard sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Seasoned steamed vegetables
- Crispy seasoned fries
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Buttery Texas toast
You can also serve it on a bed of wild rice or over a crisp garden salad for a lighter option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to keep the cheese melty and the chicken moist.
Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can make the bacon soggy and the chicken rubbery.
Tips for Perfecting Outback Chicken Every Time
- Pound the chicken evenly to avoid undercooked centers and overcooked edges.
- Use fresh cheese for optimal melt and flavor.
- Don’t skip the homemade honey mustard — it makes all the difference.
- Cook mushrooms until caramelized to enhance their umami flavor.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Please note: Values are approximate and based on typical serving sizes.
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 35g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Sugar: 7g
This protein-packed dish is perfect for a low-carb, high-flavor meal option.
Why This Outback Chicken Recipe Stands Out
Unlike many other copycat recipes, this version stays true to the rich, hearty flavors of the original. With crispy bacon, savory mushrooms, gooey Colby Jack cheese, and a tangy honey mustard glaze, every bite is a full-flavored experience. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella work, but Colby Jack provides the best flavor and melt.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep all components (cook chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and sauce) a day ahead. Assemble and heat before serving.
Is it gluten-free?
If you ensure that your bacon and sauce ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can easily be adapted for a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
Recreating the Outback Steakhouse Chicken at home is easier than you think, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. With its combination of textures and layers of rich, savory flavor, this dish is a guaranteed hit every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers the signature steakhouse experience without leaving your kitchen.
Cook it once, and it’s bound to become a household favorite.