These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are tasty little balls filled with cheese and spicy jalapeños, all crispy and golden. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own!
They’re a crowd-pleaser for sure, and who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving them with ranch dressing for dipping. Just be careful; they’re addictive! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken is essential for these bites. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try swapping the chicken with cooked cauliflower or chickpeas for a tasty alternative.
Cream Cheese: This gives your bites a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Monterey Jack Cheese: It’s meltier and creamy! While it’s the best choice, you could substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a bit more heat.
Jalapeños: Adjust the amount to your spice level. If you want a milder flavor, consider using green bell peppers or omit them completely. You could also add a touch of hot sauce if you like things spicy!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The key to crunchy Rattlesnake Bites is in the coating process! Here’s how to make sure they come out perfectly crispy:
- Set up your breading station: flour first, then egg, and finally, breadcrumbs. Make sure to coat each ball thoroughly in each step.
- Let the coated balls sit for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better!
- Keep your oil hot at 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cool, the bites will soak up oil and turn greasy.
- Fry them in small batches. This ensures even cooking and a delightful crunch.
Following these tips will lead to beautifully crispy bites every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Recipe Copycat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to fry. Overall, you can expect to have these Rattlesnake Bites ready in about 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. This is where the magic starts, so make sure it’s mixed well!
2. Shape the Bites:
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls that are about 1 inch in diameter. Make sure they are compact so they hold together when frying.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. This is your assembly line for coating the bites, so make sure they are all ready!
4. Bread the Bites:
Coat each ball by first rolling it in flour, then dipping it into the beaten eggs, and finally rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat. It’s important to make sure each bite is coated evenly for a crispy finish!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one, to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
6. Fry the Bites:
Carefully add the bites to the hot oil in small batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. This is where they get their delicious crunch!
7. Drain and Cool:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the bites from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This helps to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Rattlesnake Bites hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy these tasty bites together!
Enjoy your delicious Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Recipe
Can I Make These Rattlesnake Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the bites in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. When you’re ready, just heat the oil and fry as directed!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with shredded cauliflower, chickpeas, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to cook and season them well for flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Rattlesnake Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Can I Freeze These Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze the un-fried bites on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
