Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce

Are you ready to bring the iconic flavors of Outback Steakhouse right into your kitchen? This Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce recipe is your golden ticket to enjoying that crispy, flavorful chicken paired with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, game day, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive into the details and create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why It Deserves a Spot

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the mouthwatering goodness of fried chicken. The Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce combines the crunchy texture of perfectly fried chicken with a rich and zesty sauce that takes the flavor profile to the next level. With its delightful spices and the signature sauce, this dish perfectly captures the essence of your favorite restaurant while allowing you to enjoy it from the comfort of your home. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress your guests with a dish that’s both fun and delicious!

What You’ll Need

• For the Bloomin Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons horseradish (or a little less)
  • 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

Gear Checklist

• Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
• Whisk – ideal for mixing the sauce and dry ingredients
• Meat mallet – to pound the chicken to the perfect thickness
• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven – for frying the chicken evenly
• Slotted spoon – perfect for removing the chicken from the oil
• Serving platter – to showcase your beautiful fried chicken

Directions: Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Bloomin Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, paprika, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of 1/2 inch. This ensures that they cook evenly and remain tender.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk and water.

Step 4: Dredging the Chicken

Take each piece of pounded chicken and dip it first into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the flour to the chicken. Repeat this process for all chicken pieces.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your chicken will fry beautifully without absorbing too much oil.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Step 8: Serve with Bloomin Sauce

Once all the chicken is cooked, arrange it on a serving platter and serve with the chilled Bloomin Sauce on the side for dipping.

Fit It to Your Goals

• For a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying. Coat with cooking spray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture with added spices for a few hours before breading.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, for a twist on the classic Bloomin Sauce.
• Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

When preparing the Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce, it’s essential to ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Conversely, if it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through. Always use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for the best results.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Bloomin Sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat the chicken in the oven to retain its crispy texture rather than using a microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make the Bloomin Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The Bloomin Sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What can I serve with the fried chicken?

This dish pairs well with various sides such as coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with additional dipping sauces for variety!

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve prepared the Perfect Copycat Outback Bloomin Fried Chicken with Signature Bloomin Sauce, it’s time to gather your friends and family around the table. The crispy, flavorful chicken paired with the tangy sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!