These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are crispy, spicy, and cheesy little balls of goodness! They’re stuffed with creamy cheese and a kick of heat, perfect for sharing with friends.
Whenever I make these, they disappear fast! I love serving them with a cool dip on the side—it’s the perfect combo. Get ready for a fun snack that everyone will love! 🌶️🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked and finely diced chicken breast is key for this dish. If you’re looking for a shortcut, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here!
Cheese: Monterey Jack gives a creamy texture and mild flavor. If you can’t find it, try using Pepper Jack for some extra spice or Cheddar for a sharper taste.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add that signature kick, but you can adjust the number based on your spice tolerance. Alternatively, use banana peppers for a milder flavor.
Cornmeal: For that great crunch, cornmeal is essential. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can replace it with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do You Fry Perfect Rattlesnake Bites?
The frying technique is crucial for crispy bites! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key, as too low will make them greasy, and too high could burn them.
- Fry in batches! Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy bites.
- Gently turn the bites occasionally. You want them golden brown on all sides, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels. This helps keep them crispy!
With these tips, your Rattlesnake Bites will be a hit! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups cooked and finely diced chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (adjust heat to taste)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups cornmeal
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for frying. In total, you can have these delicious bites ready in about 35 minutes, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the cooked and diced chicken breast. Then, add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped green onions, and finely diced jalapeños. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture is the heart of your rattlesnake bites!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Next, in a separate bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the buttermilk until blended. Set out a shallow dish and fill it with cornmeal for the final coating step.
3. Form the Bites:
Take a scoop of the chicken and cheese mixture and roll it into small bites, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with little balls that are easy to fry!
4. Coat the Bites:
First, coat each ball in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. Next, dip it into the egg and buttermilk wash, and finally roll it in the cornmeal to create a crispy exterior. This coating is what will make them irresistibly crunchy!
5. Fry the Rattlesnake Bites:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated bites into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried bites from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or a spicy horseradish sauce, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, spicy bites reminiscent of the Texas Roadhouse favorite!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cooked diced turkey or even use shrimp for a different flavor. Just make sure your alternative meat is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What if I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No problem at all! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect replacement for buttermilk.
How Do I Store Leftover Rattlesnake Bites?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. When you’re ready to cook, follow the frying instructions as usual!
