These Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor! They’re made with cheese and spicy jalapeños, giving your taste buds a little kick!
They’re perfect for sharing, or, let’s be real, you might just want them all to yourself. I like to dip them in ranch dressing for extra yumminess. Enjoy the crispy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: This ingredient adds protein and flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or make it vegetarian by swapping with black beans or chickpeas for a different twist!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cream or a non-dairy cream cheese for a similar consistency.
Jalapeños: They add a spicy kick! Adjust the amount to your liking. If you want less heat, try using bell peppers or banana peppers instead.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch. Regular breadcrumbs will work too, but if you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating.
Ranch Dressing: This is optional but delicious for dipping! You can easily make a homemade version using yogurt, herbs, and seasonings, or use your favorite store-bought dressing.
How Do You Get Crispy Rattlesnake Bites Every Time?
To achieve those perfectly crispy rattlesnake bites, the coating process is key. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Be sure to coat each ball thoroughly in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a good crunch.
- For double the crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps, giving extra protection during frying.
- When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C) to avoid sogginess. A deep-fryer or heavy skillet works well.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil for a lighter finish.
With these tips, you’ll have irresistibly crispy rattlesnake bites that are sure to impress! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
For the Coating:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or plain breadcrumbs
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Ranch dressing, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these tasty rattlesnake bites will take about 15 minutes, and you’ll need an additional 10 minutes for frying. So, in just about 25 minutes, you can have this delicious dish ready for snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Filling:
In a medium bowl, take your cooked chicken and add in the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapeños. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This filling is what gives your bites that yummy, cheesy flavor!
2. Setting Up the Coating Stations:
Now, get three shallow bowls ready. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs. And in the third bowl, add your breadcrumbs. These bowls will help us coat our bites perfectly!
3. Shaping the Bites:
Using a spoon or your hands, take a small amount of the chicken mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls. About the size of a golf ball is great! Make sure they’re packed well so they hold together during frying.
4. Coating the Bites:
It’s time to coat those bites! Roll each ball in the seasoned flour first, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s nicely covered. If you want them extra crunchy, feel free to dip them in the egg and breadcrumbs a second time!
5. Frying the Bites:
Heat up the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated bites to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them enough space to cook evenly!
6. Draining and Serving:
Once they’re golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bites to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up any extra oil. Serve warm, and enjoy them with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Dig in and enjoy these cheesy, spicy, crispy rattlesnake bites that capture the fun flavors of Texas Roadhouse! They make a great appetizer or snack for any occasion!
FAQ about Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Can I Make Rattlesnake Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and shape the bites a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. If you prepare them ahead of time, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Jalapeños?
If you prefer less heat, you can use bell peppers or even poblano peppers, which are milder. Alternatively, if you love spice, consider adding diced serrano peppers for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover rattlesnake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake these bites! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different from fried bites.
