Kookaburra Wings from Outback Steakhouse feature tender chicken wings tossed in a bold, tangy blend of spices and signature Outback sauce, served with celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing, delivering a flavorful and satisfying appetizer.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Deep fryer or large heavy pot
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet with wire rack (optional)
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter or plate
- Small dipping bowls
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot sauce
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Celery sticks
- Blue cheese dressing
When preparing Kookaburra Wings, use fresh chicken wings weighing about 2 lbs (900g) to ensure the right portion size and texture. Precisely measure spices such as paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs to replicate the bold, tangy flavor typical of Outback Steakhouse's signature wings. Melt unsalted butter with hot sauce and honey to create a balanced, flavorful sauce that coats the wings evenly. Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing complement the spicy wings, adding freshness and creaminess to the dish. Your copycat Kookaburra Wings from Outback Steakhouse will deliver a delicious, restaurant-quality appetizer experience at home.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer or large heavy pot with oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme.
- Toss chicken wings in spice blend until evenly coated.
- Fry wings in batches for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove wings with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- In small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in hot sauce and honey until well blended.
- Place fried wings in mixing bowl and pour sauce over them; toss with tongs to coat evenly.
- (Optional) Transfer sauced wings to baking sheet with wire rack and broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispness.
- Arrange wings on serving platter; add celery sticks.
- Serve with blue cheese dressing in small dipping bowls.
Substitution
Kookaburra Wings from Outback Steakhouse copycat recipe offers a spicy and savory flavor profile that can be adjusted to suit your heat preference by reducing or substituting the cayenne pepper with smoked paprika for a milder taste. If you don't have a deep fryer, using a large heavy pot for frying the wings works just as well, but be sure to monitor the oil temperature closely to ensure crispy results. Butter can be swapped for margarine or ghee if you have dietary restrictions, and honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave to maintain sweetness. Blue cheese dressing pairs perfectly as a dip, but ranch or a garlic aioli make excellent alternatives if blue cheese isn't to your liking. Your celery sticks can also be substituted with carrot sticks for added crunch and color on the serving platter.
Tips
Make sure to pat the chicken wings completely dry before coating them with the spice blend to ensure a crispier texture after frying. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at a steady 375degF (190degC) during frying for even cooking and to prevent greasy wings. Tossing the wings in the warm sauce immediately after frying helps the sauce adhere better, enhancing flavor evenly. When broiling, keep a close eye on the wings to avoid burning while achieving that extra crispness you want for your Kookaburra Wings.
Nutritions
Kookaburra Wings provide a high-protein snack with approximately 24 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving, supporting muscle repair and growth. The wings are rich in saturated fat due to the butter and deep-frying process, contributing to calorie density and flavor. The blue cheese dressing adds additional fat and calories, while celery sticks contribute minimal calories and provide dietary fiber and vitamins. You can balance your intake by pairing the wings with fresh vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient consumption.
Storage
Store leftover Kookaburra Wings in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. To reheat, place wings on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) until heated through and crispy. Your blue cheese dressing should be kept in a sealed container separately in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken wings with boneless chicken tenders for a quicker cooking option that's easier to eat. Replace cayenne pepper with smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky variation in flavor. Swap blue cheese dressing with ranch or a creamy garlic dip to customize the accompaniment to your taste. For a healthier twist, bake the coated wings at 400degF (200degC) for 25-30 minutes instead of deep frying to reduce oil content.
Allergies
Kookaburra Wings from Outback Steakhouse may pose allergy risks due to ingredients like blue cheese dressing, which contains dairy and mold cultures, and hot sauce, which can contain preservatives and additives triggering sensitivities. Chicken wings themselves are generally safe but spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper may cause reactions in individuals with specific spice allergies. Your allergy considerations should also include celery, a known allergen for some people, so be cautious when consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Kookaburra Wings from Outback Steakhouse are loved for their perfect balance of crispy texture and bold, tangy flavors that deliver an unforgettable taste experience. The wings are marinated in a special blend of spices and cooked to a golden perfection, creating a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Making the copycat recipe allows you to replicate the authentic taste at home, giving you full control over ingredients and freshness for a satisfying snack or appetizer. Your guests will appreciate the savory richness and signature zest that makes these wings a standout choice.