Have you ever made Alice Springs Chicken and then stood in front of your fridge wondering what on earth to serve with it? Trust me you’re not alone! This cheesy bacon-topped chicken dish from Outback Steakhouse is absolutely delicious, but figuring out the perfect sides can be tricky. After all, you want something that complements those rich flavors without overwhelming them.
I’ve spent way too much time experimenting with different side dishes, and I’m excited to share my findings with you. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, I’ve got you covered with these 15 fantastic sides that pair perfectly with Alice Springs Chicken.
Best Sides to Serve with Alice Springs Chicken
1. Baked Potatoes
There’s something about a simple baked potato that just works perfectly with Alice Springs Chicken. The plain, starchy base provides the ideal canvas for the cheesy, savory toppings from your chicken to mingle with.
When making baked potatoes:
- Scrub them thoroughly
- Poke holes with a fork
- Rub with olive oil and salt
- Bake until fork-tender (about 45-60 minutes at 425°F)
The beauty of baked potatoes is their simplicity. They won’t compete with your loaded chicken dish but instead provide a neutral comforting side that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you want to take your potato game up a notch, garlic mashed potatoes are the way to go Their creamy, buttery texture and rich garlic flavor create a perfect balance with Alice Springs Chicken
The velvety consistency of well-made mashed potatoes complements the savory chicken wonderfully. Plus, they’re super versatile – you can make them as basic or as fancy as you like!
3. Pasta Aglio e Olio
When you want pasta but don’t want to overwhelm your meal, pasta aglio e olio is your best friend. This light Italian pasta dish features garlic-infused olive oil, red pepper flakes, and a spritz of lemon juice.
It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and provides a delicate flavor that won’t overshadow your Alice Springs Chicken. The subtle garlic notes and light texture make it a wonderful pairing.
4. Strawberry Spinach Salad
For a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken, a strawberry spinach salad is absolutely perfect! The combination of sweet strawberries, salty feta cheese, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette creates a balanced flavor profile that cuts through the richness of the main dish.
I love adding candied pecans for a bit of crunch – it takes this salad to a whole other level. The bright, fresh flavors provide a wonderful counterpoint to the savory chicken.
5. Skillet Broccolini
Need something quick, healthy, and delicious? Skillet broccolini takes less than 10 minutes and requires just four ingredients. The ghee gives it a delightful buttery flavor, while lemon juice adds brightness.
The slightly bitter, earthy taste of broccolini pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of Alice Springs Chicken. Plus, that vibrant green color looks stunning on the plate!
6. Blooming Onion
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to recreate the full Outback Steakhouse experience, why not try making a blooming onion? This iconic appetizer features a large onion cut to resemble a flower, breaded, and deep-fried until golden brown.
It’s definitely not the healthiest option, but it’s undeniably delicious and makes for an impressive presentation. The crispy texture provides a nice contrast to the tender chicken.
7. Broccoli Slaw
Don’t throw away those broccoli stems! Turn them into a fresh, tasty slaw instead. Unlike traditional coleslaw, this version uses honey mustard dressing instead of mayo, giving it a sweet-sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with cheesy chicken.
The crispness of the vegetables provides a wonderful textural contrast to the tender chicken, making each bite more interesting.
8. Buttered Corn and Green Beans
Add a pop of color to your plate with buttered corn and green beans. This simple side dish brings together sweet corn kernels and fresh green beans, enhanced with herbs like thyme, parsley, and chives.
The simplicity of this dish allows the flavors of your Alice Springs Chicken to shine while still providing a delicious accompaniment. It’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
9. Brown Bread Dinner Rolls
Looking for something to soak up all that cheesy goodness? Brown bread dinner rolls are the answer! These fluffy rolls get their rich color from molasses and cocoa powder, offering a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Fresh, warm rolls are simply irresistible and make the perfect vehicle for mopping up every last bit of flavor from your plate.
10. Roasted Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Roasting is absolutely the best way to prepare Brussels sprouts (and I won’t be convinced otherwise!). The high heat creates perfectly crisp sprouts with no sogginess in sight.
When glazed with aged balsamic vinegar, these sprouts develop a sweet-tart flavor that pairs wonderfully with Alice Springs Chicken. Plus, adding a vegetable side instantly makes your meal healthier… right?
11. Cauliflower Rice
If you’re following a keto diet, cauliflower rice is the perfect side for your Alice Springs Chicken. It’s low in carbs but absorbs flavors beautifully.
Try adding garlic and lemon zest to your cauliflower rice for an extra flavor boost that complements the chicken perfectly. It’s a light, nutritious option that won’t weigh you down.
12. Asparagus Fries
For a crispy side that’s a bit healthier than traditional fries, asparagus fries are a fantastic option. Coated in panko and parmesan breading, these crispy spears provide the perfect vessel for dipping into the gooey cheese sauce from your chicken.
They’re easier to make than a blooming onion but still satisfy that craving for something crispy and indulgent.
13. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad brings a refreshing, crisp element that balances the richness of Alice Springs Chicken perfectly. The combination of fresh romaine, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons creates a variety of textures that enhance the dining experience.
Whether you prefer a traditional creamy Caesar dressing or a lighter vinaigrette, this salad provides a palate-cleansing counterpoint to the savory chicken.
14. Wild Rice Pilaf
For a more substantial side dish, wild rice pilaf is an excellent choice. Its nutty, earthy flavor and varied texture create an interesting contrast to the creamy, cheesy chicken.
Enhance your pilaf with herb seasonings and a nut garnish for additional flavor and crunch. This wholesome side complements the chicken without competing with its bold flavors.
15. Quinoa Salad
For a light, nutritious side that still feels substantial, quinoa salad is perfect. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa has a pleasant nutty flavor and fluffy texture that pairs well with Alice Springs Chicken.
Add fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing to create a balanced, flavorful side dish that enhances the overall meal while providing additional nutritional benefits.
Why These Sides Work So Well
Alice Springs Chicken is rich and indulgent, featuring grilled chicken breast topped with mushrooms, bacon, and melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. With such bold flavors, it’s important to choose sides that either:
- Provide contrast through freshness and acidity
- Complement the richness with simple, neutral flavors
- Echo the indulgence with equally comforting sides
The sides I’ve suggested cover all these bases, giving you plenty of options depending on your mood and preferences.
Tips for Creating a Balanced Meal
When serving Alice Springs Chicken, try to include at least one vegetable side to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some combinations that work particularly well:
- Alice Springs Chicken + Baked Potato + Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Alice Springs Chicken + Caesar Salad + Garlic Bread
- Alice Springs Chicken + Pasta Aglio e Olio + Strawberry Spinach Salad
Remember that balance is key – you don’t want too many rich dishes competing for attention.
Final Thoughts
Alice Springs Chicken is already a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides elevates it to a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh like a strawberry spinach salad, or something more substantial like garlic mashed potatoes, there’s a perfect side dish for every occasion.
I hope these suggestions help you create a memorable meal that your family and friends will love. What’s your favorite side to serve with Alice Springs Chicken? I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions!
Now, if you’ll excuse me, all this talk about food has made me hungry. I think I know what I’m making for dinner tonight!
How to make OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE’S | Alice Springs Chicken
FAQ
What sides to serve with Alice Springs chicken?
- Homemade French Fries.
- Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries.
- Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes.
- Easy Rice Pilaf with Orzo Pasta.
- Oven Roasted Asparagus.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese.
- Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts.
- Homemade Brown Bread Dinner Rolls.
What comes with Alice Springs chicken at Outback?
Grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed mushrooms, crisp bacon, melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar and honey mustard sauce. Served with two freshly made sides.
What side to eat with chicken?
- Citrus Salad With Brown Butter Vinaigrette, Dates & Almonds. …
- 3-Ingredient Bacon Biscuits. …
- Grilled Chicory Salad With Chile-Fennel Vinaigrette. …
- Meyer Lemon Rice With Candied Garlic From Michael W. …
- Ina Garten’s Parmesan-Roasted Broccoli. …
- Seared Mushrooms With Lemon-Cumin Labneh.
What kind of cheese on Alice Springs chicken?
Alice Springs Chicken is traditionally topped with a combination of Monterey Jack cheese and Cheddar cheese. Some recipes also suggest Colby Jack as an alternative or addition to the standard blend.