There’s something about a perfectly crispy piece of fried chicken that just hits the spot every time. Outback Steakhouse’s Bloomin’ Fried Chicken takes that craving up a notch, blending the rich, savory flavors of their famous Bloomin’ Onion seasoning into a mouth-watering fried chicken experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy chicken breast, coated in a crispy batter that’s bursting with the classic spices and herbs of the Bloomin’ Onion. This recipe brings the unforgettable flavors of Outback Steakhouse right to your kitchen, letting you enjoy this restaurant favorite anytime you want.

Whether you’re a fried chicken fan or just looking for a new recipe to wow your taste buds, this Bloomin’ Fried Chicken is a must-try. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with simple ingredients and a few steps. Get ready to bring a bit of Outback magic to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and achievable, even if you’re new to frying chicken.
• Incredible flavor: The unique blend of spices gives the chicken a savory, slightly spicy flavor that’s truly irresistible.
• Restaurant quality at home: Enjoy the famous Outback Bloomin’ flavor without leaving your kitchen.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, game night, or a weekend treat, this chicken is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk – for marinating the chicken, adding tenderness and subtle tang
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the base of your crispy coating
• 1 tablespoon paprika – adds a hint of smokiness
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the savory flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic and adds depth
• 1 teaspoon salt – essential for seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – a touch of heat and balance
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – for a mild, spicy kick
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – brings an herbaceous note
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – adds a subtle earthiness
• Vegetable oil – for frying; use a neutral oil with a high smoke point

How to Make Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Fried Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   • Place the chicken breasts in a bowl with the buttermilk. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum tenderness and flavor, let it marinate up to 4 hours.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Coating
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Chicken
   • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken to help it stick. You want a thick, even layer of seasoning on each piece.
4. Heat the Oil
   • In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach about an inch in depth. Heat over medium until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible to ensure the oil maintains the right temperature, as this helps achieve a golden, crispy coating.
5. Fry the Chicken
   • Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot oil, frying each side for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Serve
   • Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot, ideally with a creamy ranch or spicy dipping sauce for that extra touch.

Helpful Tips

• Marinate for Longer: Marinating the chicken for 4 hours or overnight will give you an even more tender and flavorful result.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Keep a thermometer handy to adjust the heat as needed.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: A side of creamy ranch or a spicy mayo pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, complementing the spices and adding extra richness.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Notes

• For a healthier option, you can also try baking the chicken instead of frying. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the coating is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the cayenne pepper for more or less heat, depending on your preference.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe and may add extra juiciness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.

How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness.

What dipping sauce goes best with Bloomin’ Fried Chicken?
For that authentic Outback experience, serve with a spicy ranch or chipotle mayo. A classic honey mustard also makes a fantastic pairing.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until hot and crispy, or use an air fryer for a few minutes.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some other fried favorites to try:

• Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken
• Crispy Fried Onion Rings
• Southern Style Chicken Tenders
• Spicy Fried Cauliflower Bites

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Fried Chicken is an irresistible dish that’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and satisfies that craving for a crispy, perfectly seasoned bite. With just the right balance of spices, you can bring a taste of Outback right into your home. So, next time you’re in the mood for something special, give this recipe a try, and watch it become a family favorite! Enjoy every crunchy, savory bite.