1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Preheat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 1/2 inch deep in the skillet.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk, then dredge it again in the flour mixture. This double coating helps achieve the signature crunch.
4. Fry the Chicken:
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Bloomin’ Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared horseradish, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve:
- Plate the Chicken: Serve the Bloomin’ Fried Chicken hot, with a generous portion of the Bloomin’ Sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Pair your Bloomin’ Fried Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Buttermilk Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. You can pound them with a meat mallet if necessary.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying to let the juices redistribute and the coating to set.
Conclusion:
Outback Steakhouse’s Bloomin’ Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the best of fried chicken with the unique flavors of the famous Bloomin’ Onion. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken with the tangy Bloomin’ Sauce for a truly satisfying meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Bloomin’ Fried Chicken is sure to impress!