Meet the Outback Oasis Chicken, a savory masterpiece inspired by the bold flavors of the Australian Outback. This dish combines juicy chicken with crispy bacon and a creamy mustard sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken breasts are the star of the show, providing a lean and tender base that absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce and toppings. Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder form a simple yet flavorful spice rub that enhances the chicken without overpowering it. Olive oil aids in searing, adding a touch of richness. Bacon brings a smoky, salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. White mushrooms add earthiness and a bit of texture, while the Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise create a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that ties everything together. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a layer of gooey deliciousness, and fresh parsley offers a pop of color and freshness as a finishing touch.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A side of garlic mashed potatoes or a simple green salad also complements the rich flavors nicely. For a bit of freshness, consider serving with a lemon wedge to squeeze over the top.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when you need it. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Generously coat each chicken breast with this spice mix, ensuring every bite will be delicious.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they're golden brown. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and building flavor. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
In the same skillet, add the bacon slices and cook until they're crispy. Remove them from the skillet, let them cool a bit, and then crumble them into bite-sized pieces. Don't toss that bacon fat just yet—it's full of flavor!
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them in the leftover bacon fat until they're tender. They should soak up all those wonderful flavors. Stir in the Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise, and cook until everything is well combined into a creamy sauce.
Spoon this mushroom mixture over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring they're thoroughly coated. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor before serving.