Outback Steakhouse Chicken

Mixing bowls
Grill or grill pan (alternatively, you can use an oven or stovetop skillet)
Tongs (for flipping the chicken)
Meat thermometer (optional, to ensure the chicken is cooked through)
Small bowl (for seasoning)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
Mix the marinade ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar dissolves and the marinade is well blended.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you have time, marinating overnight will infuse the chicken with even more flavor.
Tip: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is essential for allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat, but if you’re pressed for time, you can also marinate it for just 15-20 minutes for a lighter flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the seasoning mix
Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix them together until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
Grill the chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Generously season each piece of chicken on both sides with the prepared steakhouse-style seasoning blend.
Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If you’re using boneless thighs, they may cook in slightly less time.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.
Alternative cooking method (stovetop):
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop in a skillet. Preheat a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
If you prefer the chicken to be more juicy and tender, you can cover the skillet with a lid while it cooks to help lock in moisture.
Alternative cooking method (oven):
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve
Plate the chicken: Once the chicken has rested, slice it if desired or serve it whole on individual plates.
Garnish: For an extra pop of color, sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional burst of freshness.
Side dish suggestions: This Outback-inspired chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a classic Australian steakhouse feel, serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes and Tips:
Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will become. If you’re in a hurry, marinating for just 15-30 minutes is still beneficial. If you have time, let it marinate for 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Grill Marks: For the best grilled chicken with those signature grill marks, make sure the grill is preheated and that you don’t move the chicken around too much while it’s cooking. Let it sit for 6-7 minutes per side without disturbing it to get the perfect sear.
Moisture Tip: To ensure your chicken stays juicy, avoid overcooking it. Chicken breasts can dry out if cooked for too long. Using a meat thermometer helps you avoid this by ensuring the chicken is cooked through but not overdone.
Customize the Seasoning: The steakhouse-style seasoning can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer less spice, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount. You can also experiment with additional seasonings like garlic salt, parsley, or Italian seasoning.
Boneless Skinless Thighs: If you prefer a more flavorful and moist cut of chicken, consider using boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts. They have a richer flavor and are more forgiving when cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Grilled Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a light and healthy meal.
Salad: Pair the chicken with a crisp green salad, topped with your favorite dressing for a balanced meal.
Bread: Serve with fresh bread, like dinner rolls or garlic bread, to soak up any juices from the chicken.
Conclusion:
Recreate the delicious flavors of Outback Steakhouse Chicken right in your own kitchen with this simple copycat recipe. The combination of savory marinade, aromatic spices, and perfectly grilled chicken makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just treating yourself to something special, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!