Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Fried Chicken – Don’t LOSE this Recipe 😋

Introduction

There’s something truly special about replicating restaurant favorites at home. The first time I made Outback Steakhouse’s Bloomin’ Fried Chicken, my family was in heaven! The crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and that signature bloom sauce created a dining experience right in our kitchen. This recipe has quickly become a go-to for family dinners and gatherings. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying dish!

Ingredients

For the Bloom Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons horseradish (or slightly less if preferred)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 dash ground black pepper
• 1 dash cayenne pepper

For the Fried Chicken:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 pound chicken breast, pounded to 1/2 inch thick
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Bloom Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, salt, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve.

Prepare the Seasoned Flour:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the flour.

Buttermilk Mixture:

1. In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and water until smooth.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap.
2. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch. If your chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.

Dredging the Chicken:

1. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip the coated chicken into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any extra liquid to drip off.
3. Finally, dredge the chicken again in the seasoned flour. Set the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 5 minutes while repeating the process with the remaining pieces.

Frying the Chicken:

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully fry the chicken breasts in batches, cooking for 7 to 8 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip once to ensure even browning.

Drain and Serve:

1. Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
2. Serve the fried chicken drizzled with some of the bloom sauce on top, or offer the sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 22g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Drizzle with Bloom Sauce: Top the fried chicken with the bloom sauce for an added flavor kick.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve the bloom sauce on the side for dipping.
• Sides: Pair with:
• French fries
• Coleslaw
• A fresh garden salad
• Mashed potatoes

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and freshly made sauces enhance flavor.
3. Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for optimal frying; too low can lead to greasy chicken.
4. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after frying; this helps keep it juicy.
5. Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the chicken batter for an added layer of flavor.
• Cheesy Version: Mix in shredded cheese to the chicken mixture before frying for a cheesy delight.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with:
• Sweet potato fries for a healthier option.
• A cold beer or refreshing lemonade to complement the richness of the fried chicken.
• Pickles or jalapeños on the side for added flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of chicken?

• Yes, you can use thighs or tenders, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

1. Can I bake the chicken instead?

• For a healthier option, bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

1. What can I use instead of horseradish?

• You can substitute with wasabi or omit it entirely for a milder sauce.

1. How can I make this gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

1. Can I use a different cheese?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.

1. What’s the best way to pound chicken?

• Place chicken between plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent splatter.

1. How can I make the sauce spicier?

• Add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños.

1. What type of oil is best for frying?

• Vegetable oil or canola oil works well due to their high smoke points.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! The bloom sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

Recreating Outback Steakhouse’s Bloomin’ Fried Chicken at home has never been easier or more satisfying. With a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Pair it with the tangy bloom sauce for a meal that’s packed with flavor and fun. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this mouthwatering recipe! Enjoy every bite!

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