These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are crispy, cheesy, and packed with a little kick! Made with spicy jalapeños and melty cheese, they make a great appetizer or snack.
Whenever I make these, my family can’t get enough. We love dipping them in ranch dressing—so good! Just be ready to share, because they’ll disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using leftover cooked chicken for convenience, but rotisserie chicken works beautifully too. If you want a vegetarian option, try using cooked black beans instead!
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture, but you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Jalapeños: Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you want less heat, use mild green peppers or even bell peppers for a milder flavor.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is great for melting, but feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor!
Milk: If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or a non-dairy milk substitute work just fine.
How Do I Fry Them Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but here are some tips to make it easier:
- Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before adding the bites; otherwise, they could soak up too much oil.
- Do not overcrowd the pan—fry in smaller batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Use a slotted spoon for easy removal and draining. Let them rest on paper towels to absorb any extra grease.
Following these steps will give you perfectly crispy Rattlesnake Bites without the fuss!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4-5 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced (adjust for spice preference)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp milk or buttermilk
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, enough for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer will take about 20 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up for any gathering. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked diced chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the diced jalapeños. Mix everything together until it’s well blended, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the Bites:
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a plate or a baking sheet until you’re ready to coat them.
3. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk or buttermilk until the mixture is smooth.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want enough oil to submerge the bites, which helps them cook evenly.
5. Coat the Bites:
Take each ball of filling and first dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll the egg-coated ball in the seasoned flour mixture, completely covering it. For extra crunch, you can repeat this step and dip it back into the egg and then again into the flour.
6. Fry the Bites:
Carefully drop the coated bites into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid crowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Stir gently to ensure they cook evenly.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them from getting soggy.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the Rattlesnake Bites hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your savory, cheesy, and spicy creation!
These crispy, spicy, cheesy Rattlesnake Bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, just like the Texas Roadhouse original!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Can I Make These Without Chicken?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cooked black beans or even just increase the amount of cheese for a vegetarian version. They will still be delicious and filling!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of jalapeños or use bell peppers instead. You can also omit the cayenne pepper from the coating for even less heat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze These Rattlesnake Bites?
Absolutely! After forming the bites, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!
