Outback Steakhouse is well-known for its Australian-themed menu, and one of its most iconic dishes is Chicken on the Barbie. This dish features a simple yet flavorful grilled chicken breast served with a side of tangy barbecue sauce. The name “Chicken on the Barbie” refers to the Australian slang for barbecue, or “barbie,” highlighting its cooking method loved in Australian cuisine.
At its core, Outback Chicken on the Barbie is a perfectly seasoned, juicy grilled chicken breast, served alongside fresh vegetables or fries, with a tangy barbecue sauce for dipping. It’s one of the healthier options on the Outback Steakhouse menu, prized for its smoky flavor and simplicity.
Key Elements of Chicken on the Barbie
Several essential elements make Outback’s Chicken on the Barbie a favorite among customers:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices, then grilled over an open flame to lock in the juices and impart a signature smoky flavor. The grilling technique enhances the seasoning with a delicious char.
- Barbecue Sauce: The dish comes with a tangy barbecue sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
- Vegetable Sides: Often paired with steamed or grilled vegetables such as broccoli or carrots, Chicken on the Barbie can also come with a starchy side like a baked potato, mashed potatoes, or seasoned fries, making it a well-rounded meal.
- Low-Calorie Option: Compared to heavier dishes like Alice Springs Chicken or steak, Chicken on the Barbie is a lighter, lower-calorie option, perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
How Is Outback Chicken on the Barbie Prepared?
Outback Steakhouse’s Chicken on the Barbie is prepared using simple, effective techniques that elevate the natural flavors of the chicken without overwhelming them. Here’s a breakdown of how the dish is typically made:
1. Seasoning the Chicken
Before grilling, the chicken breasts are seasoned with a flavorful spice blend that typically includes:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper
This combination of spices adds a slightly smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the char from the grill.
2. Grilling to Perfection
Grill the seasoned chicken breasts over an open flame to achieve the signature smoky flavor and juicy texture. The grilling process locks in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful. Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
3. Serving with Barbecue Sauce
Serve the grilled chicken breast with a side of tangy barbecue sauce for dipping. The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce enhances the grilled flavor of the chicken, adding a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
4. Adding Sides
Pair Chicken on the Barbie with steamed or grilled vegetables or a baked potato for a balanced, healthy meal. The fresh veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken and tangy barbecue sauce.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken on the Barbie
Outback’s Chicken on the Barbie is one of the more nutritious dishes on their menu, especially when compared to heavier options. Here’s why it stands out:
1. High in Protein
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein. A single serving of grilled chicken breast contains up to 30 grams of protein, making it an ideal option for those looking to boost their protein intake without consuming excess fat or calories.
2. Low in Fat and Calories
Since the chicken is grilled and not fried, it’s naturally lower in fat. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a baked potato to keep the calorie count down. This makes Chicken on the Barbie a wholesome, balanced meal with fewer calories than fried or breaded alternatives.
3. Balanced Meal
The addition of vegetables ensures that Chicken on the Barbie offers a balanced meal. Vegetables like broccoli and carrots are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, delivering essential nutrients without the extra calories.
Internal Link: Looking for more healthy chicken recipes? Explore our Guide to Healthy Chicken Meals for more ideas on preparing low-calorie, high-protein chicken dishes.
How to Make Chicken on the Barbie at Home
No need to visit Outback Steakhouse—recreating Chicken on the Barbie at home is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s how to make a restaurant-quality version in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then generously coat them with the seasoning mixture on both sides.
2: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove or bake the chicken in the oven.
- Oil the grill grates or grill pan to prevent sticking.
3: Grill the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- If using a grill pan, cook the chicken for the same amount of time, turning halfway through.
4: Serve with Barbecue Sauce and Sides
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled chicken breasts with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping and your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables, a baked potato, or seasoned fries.
Variations of Chicken on the Barbie
While the classic Chicken on the Barbie is delicious on its own, you can easily customize the dish to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try at home:
1. BBQ Chicken on the Barbie
For a smokier, sweeter flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in barbecue sauce before grilling. This extra step infuses the chicken with a more intense smoky flavor.
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken in 1/2 cup barbecue sauce for at least 2 hours before grilling.
- Grill as directed and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side.
Internal Link: Explore our Guide to BBQ Chicken Recipes for more grilling inspiration.
2. Lemon-Herb Chicken on the Barbie
If you’re craving a lighter, zestier version, try seasoning the chicken with lemon juice and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
Instructions:
- Replace the olive oil with lemon juice and add 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix.
- Grill as directed and serve with a wedge of lemon for extra brightness.
This version offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that enhances the smoky notes of the grilled chicken.
3. Spicy Chicken on the Barbie
Add some heat to your Chicken on the Barbie by incorporating chili powder or cayenne pepper into the seasoning rub. For an extra kick, brush the chicken with spicy barbecue sauce before grilling.
Instructions:
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning rub for extra spice.
- Serve with a spicy barbecue sauce or chipotle mayo for an additional layer of heat.
Internal Link: Looking for more spicy chicken recipes? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Spicy Chicken Recipes for fiery ideas.
What to Serve with Chicken on the Barbie
The versatility of Chicken on the Barbie allows you to pair it with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light or more filling, here are a few suggestions for sides that complement the grilled chicken:
1. Grilled Vegetables
Grill vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus alongside the chicken for a healthy, colorful side. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then cook them on the grill for a delicious, smoky accompaniment.
2. Baked Potato
A classic baked potato is a hearty, satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken. Top your potato with butter, sour cream, cheese, and chives for a loaded flavor experience.
Internal Link: Want to make the perfect baked potato? Follow our Guide to Perfect Baked Potatoes for tips and tricks.
3. Caesar Salad
For a lighter side, pair the chicken with a crisp Caesar salad. The creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese contrast the smoky, tangy flavors of the chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob
Another great side for Chicken on the Barbie is grilled or boiled corn on the cob. The natural sweetness of the corn complements the smoky flavors of the chicken and barbecue sauce.
Internal Link: Learn how to grill corn to perfection with our Grilled Corn Guide.
FAQs About Chicken on the Barbie
1. Is Chicken on the Barbie Healthy?
Yes, Chicken on the Barbie is one of the healthier options at Outback Steakhouse. The chicken is grilled rather than fried, reducing the fat content. When paired with steamed vegetables or a baked potato, it makes for a nutritious, balanced meal.
2. Can I Make Chicken on the Barbie Without a Grill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, use a grill pan on the stove or bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for Chicken on the Barbie?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the standard for this dish, you can use bone-in chicken if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly—bone-in chicken takes longer to grill.
Conclusion
Outback Chicken on the Barbie is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the best of grilled cooking. With its juicy, smoky grilled chicken breast and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite at Outback Steakhouse. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or guests, it’s a healthy, satisfying option sure to please everyone.
Follow this guide to recreate the dish at home, and don’t forget to explore the different variations and side dishes to complement your Chicken on the Barbie for a complete, well-rounded meal.
Internal Link: Looking for more grilling ideas? Visit our Ultimate Grilling Guide for more mouth-watering recipes.