There’s nothing quite like the sound of chicken sizzling in the oven, especially when it’s draped in a luscious layer of bacon and mustard sauce. I found myself longing for a comforting yet impressive dish as the weekend approached. One night, I was inspired to create something special with ingredients I had on hand, and that’s when Aussie Chicken was born.
Inspired by the flavors of sweet and savory, this dish effortlessly showcases the tenderness of chicken breasts, complemented by crispy bacon and a rich, mouthwatering sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight meals feel like a celebration, dazzling guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Whether you’re fighting off fast-food fatigue or just looking to add something different to your dinner lineup, this Aussie Chicken is your answer. With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, prepare for a delicious journey that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.
Why is Aussie Chicken a must-try?
Deliciously unique: The blend of bacon and mustard sauce creates an irresistibly rich flavor profile that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any culinary stress.
Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, it guarantees seconds for its mouthwatering charm.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with salads, grains, or veggies for a complete meal that satisfies every palate.
Comfort in a dish: This Aussie Chicken brings home-cooked warmth, making it ideal for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty yet delicious. Try it out and experience the magic yourself!
Aussie Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts – Skinless and boneless, these are pounded to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Seasoning salt – A sprinkle adds flavorful enhancement without overpowering the dish.
For the Bacon
- Bacon – This crispy delight elevates your Aussie Chicken with its smoky flavors and satisfying crunch.
For the Mustard Sauce
- Yellow mustard – Provides a tangy base for the sauce that’s complemented perfectly by the sweetness.
- Honey – Balances the mustard’s tang with delicate sweetness for a rich, harmonious flavor.
- Corn syrup – Adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
- Mayonnaise – Creaminess from mayonnaise gives the sauce a luxurious touch.
- Dried onion flakes – These little gems introduce savory notes and a hint of depth to the sauce.
- Vegetable oil – Used in the sauce to help combine the flavors seamlessly.
For the Toppings
- Fresh mushrooms – Sautéed until tender, they add an earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Colby-Monterey Jack cheese – Melts beautifully over the top, adding creaminess and a delicious cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness—perfect for your Aussie Chicken!
Crafting this dish is a delightful experience, and with these Aussie Chicken ingredients, you’ll have everything you need for a fabulous feast!
How to Make Aussie Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. This is the perfect temperature for gentle cooking, ensuring your chicken is tender and juicy while the bacon crisps up nicely.
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Season the chicken breasts with seasoning salt. Coat them evenly to enhance the natural flavors, giving your dish a delicious base that everyone will enjoy.
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Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove it and let it drain on paper towels, allowing that crunchy goodness to shine in your Aussie Chicken.
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Mix the mustard, honey, corn syrup, mayonnaise, onion flakes, and vegetable oil in a bowl. Stir until blended for a delightful sauce that’s both tangy and sweet—perfect for draping over your chicken!
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Sauté the sliced mushrooms in the same skillet until tender. This extra step intensifies their flavor and brings earthiness to your Aussie Chicken.
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Layer the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the mustard mixture over the top, making sure each piece is generously coated in that luscious sauce.
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Top the chicken with the crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms. This combo creates an irresistible topping that pairs beautifully with the mustard sauce underneath.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over everything. As it bakes, it’ll melt into a gooey, delicious layer, adding flavor and richness to your dish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. That heavenly aroma will have everyone gathering around!
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. This final touch adds a burst of color and brightness to your Aussie Chicken, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Optional: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Aussie Chicken?
Setting the scene for a delightful meal, you’ll want sides that enhance the wonderful flavors of this dish.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture contrasts nicely with the crispy bacon, creating a satisfying bite with each forkful.
- Garlicky Green Beans: The bright crunch of green beans complements the richness of the chicken, adding a fresh note to the meal.
- Crispy Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons bring a delightful contrast, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Honey Roasted Carrots: Their sweetness mirrors the honey in the mustard sauce, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: The juicy kernels provide a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that helps cut through the richness of the dish, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Finish the night with a rich, warm dessert that adds a decadent touch to your meal, leaving guests enchanted.
With these pairings, your Aussie Chicken dinner will be an unforgettable experience for both family and friends!
Expert Tips for Aussie Chicken
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Pound Evenly: Ensure chicken breasts are uniformly pounded to 1/2 inch for even cooking and tenderness throughout the dish.
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Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon until crispy but not burned; this adds a delightful crunch that complements the sauce beautifully without overwhelming the chicken.
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Sauce Consistency: Blend the mustard, honey, and mayo thoroughly to achieve a smooth sauce that evenly coats the chicken—no one wants clumps of mustard!
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh mushrooms and parsley for maximum flavor and color; frozen ingredients may alter the taste and texture of your Aussie Chicken.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and perfect juiciness—no one wants undercooked chicken!
Aussie Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will elevate your Aussie Chicken experience!
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Healthy Twist: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative that retains creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce to the mustard mixture for an extra layer of heat that enhances flavors beautifully.
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Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, into the mustard sauce for a fragrant flavor boost.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Swap the Colby-Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for a spicy, melty surprise that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of wild mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster, for a deeper, earthy flavor that elevates the dish’s gourmet appeal.
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Vegetable Variation: Layer in fresh spinach or kale alongside the chicken for added nutrition, creating a wholesome and vibrant dish.
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Crispy Topping: Crush some seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese over the top before baking for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
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Sweet Surprise: Add chopped fresh peaches or apple slices layered beneath the chicken for an unexpected sweetness that pairs delightfully with the mustard sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Aussie Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season the chicken breasts and layer them in a baking dish with the mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Cook the bacon and sauté the mushrooms ahead as well—these can be stored in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply top the chicken with the bacon and mushrooms, sprinkle on the cheese, and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. This way, you can enjoy delicious, stress-free meals with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Aussie Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Aussie Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Freezer: You can freeze portions of baked Aussie Chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for optimal freshness.
Reheating: Thaw frozen Aussie Chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. Sauté in a pan or pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Aussie Chicken out for more than 2 hours, as it can lead to spoilage and affect its delicious flavor.
Aussie Chicken with Bacon and Mustard Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for skinless, boneless chicken breasts that are plump and pink, with no dark spots or grey areas. Fresh chicken should feel moist but not slimy. Opting for meat that is organic or free-range can enhance the flavor and quality of your Aussie Chicken.
What’s the best way to store leftover Aussie Chicken?
You can store leftover Aussie Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to help preserve its moisture. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it juicy!
Can I freeze Aussie Chicken and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Aussie Chicken! Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious crispy top.
What should I do if the chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice that your chicken isn’t cooking uniformly, it may be due to uneven pounding. For best results, ensure that the breasts are evenly pounded to 1/2 inch, as this helps them cook at the same rate. If you find them still uneven while baking, double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer—it should be accurate for even baking!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy (from the cheese and mayo), and shellfish-free ingredients, making it generally safe for those who avoid shellfish. If anyone has allergies to mustard or bacon, you could swap in a different sauce and use turkey bacon as a substitute for a similar flavor without the allergens. Just ensure to inform your guests about any ingredient changes!
How long does cooked Aussie Chicken last in the refrigerator?
Cooked Aussie Chicken can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to store it in an airtight container or wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy it as leftovers in sandwiches or salads for a delicious second chance at this comforting dish!
Aussie Chicken with Bacon and Mustard Sauce Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken breasts with seasoning salt.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Mix the mustard, honey, corn syrup, mayonnaise, onion flakes, and vegetable oil in a bowl.
- Sauté the sliced mushrooms in the same skillet until tender.
- Layer the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the mustard mixture over the top.
- Top the chicken with the crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over everything.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.