Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside about 1/4 cup of the sauce to use later as a topping; the rest will be used to marinate the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the majority of the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and help keep it moist during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Mushrooms
While the chicken is marinating, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it on a paper towel to drain. In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms in a little bit of the leftover bacon grease until they’re tender and browned. Set the mushrooms aside.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is where the chicken will bake and all the ingredients will come together.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Heat a skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear each chicken breast for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This will give the chicken a nice crust and lock in the juices.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish or keep them in the oven-safe skillet. Top each piece with an even layer of mushrooms. Lay two pieces of bacon on each chicken breast, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Serve with Extra Sauce
Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the reserved honey mustard sauce over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Making Outback Steakhouse Chicken
- Marinate for More Flavor: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes helps the honey mustard sauce soak into the meat, giving it a more intense flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring the chicken reaches the correct temperature will keep it juicy without overcooking it.
- Layer the Toppings: Adding mushrooms, bacon, and cheese in layers helps each bite have the perfect balance of flavors.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a sweeter sauce, you can increase the honey in the honey mustard mix. For less sweetness, reduce the honey and add more Dijon mustard.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad. The honey mustard sauce adds plenty of flavor, so simple sides work best to let the chicken be the star of the meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon if you’re short on time. Just be sure it’s crispy, as it will be layered with the other ingredients in the oven and won’t cook further.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. You can also cook the bacon and mushrooms ahead of time, then assemble and bake everything when you’re ready.
Can I Substitute Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely. While Monterey Jack and cheddar work best for their melting qualities and flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella.
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