Hey there! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been on the hunt for a delicious and easy copycat recipe for Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters. I mean, who doesn’t love those crispy, golden brown tenders soaked in buttermilk and fried to perfection?
The problem is, finding a best way that’s easy to follow and produces great results can be a real challenge. But don’t worry, my friend – I’ve got you covered. In this post, I’ll be sharing my easy-to-follow Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters copycat recipe that will have you licking your fingers in no time.
Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk a little bit about Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters. What makes them such a unique and delicious meal? Well, for starters, they’re made from scratch using simple, fresh ingredients. No mystery ingredients or frozen bulk chicken here!
And what sets them apart is the airy batter that’s kept light with club soda. Soaking the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes it and makes it so much more flavorful. Trust me, once you try these Chicken Critters, you’ll never go back to regular old chicken tenders again.
Ingredients
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious copycat Chicken Critters. The is is one of the really simple copycat recipes, so you won’t need much. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless chicken tenderloins: You can also cut boneless chicken breasts into strips if you don’t have tenderloins on hand. Either way, you’ll end up with some tasty chicken!
- Buttermilk: This is used to soak the chicken and tenderize it. If you don’t have any buttermilk on hand, don’t worry – there are some substitutes you can use (more on that later).
- Flour: This is used to make the batter. Nothing fancy here, just regular old flour will do the trick.
- Seasoning salt: Salt brings up the taste of in batter. You can use your favorite brand or make your own blend.
- Cayenne pepper: A little bit of heat. If you like things spicy, feel free to add more!
- Black pepper: This adds flavor to the batter. Freshly ground is always best, but pre-ground will work too.
- White pepper: It’s similar to black pepper but has a slightly different taste.
- Club soda: This is used in the batter to keep it light and airy. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- Sea salt: This is used to season the Chicken Critters after frying. A little sprinkle goes a long way!
- Vegetable oil: You’ll need oil for frying the Chicken Critters. Canola, peanut, or vegetable oil will all work great.
In addition to the ingredients, you’ll also need some basic equipment to make Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters. Here’s what you’ll need:
Equipment
- Large Bowl: You’ll need a large bowl to soak the chicken in buttermilk.
- Whisk: This is used to mix the dry ingredients together.
- Deep Fryer or Large Skillet: You’ll need either a deep fryer or a large skillet to fry the Chicken Critters in oil.
- Tongs: These are used to carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil and to remove them when they are done frying.
- Paper Towels: You’ll need paper towels to drain the fried Chicken Critters on.
Instructions
Alright folks, it’s time to get down to business and start cooking up some delicious Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters! Don’t worry, I’ll be with you every step of the way. Here are the detailed step-by-step instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using chicken tenderloins, give yourself a pat on the back and skip this step. If you’re using chicken breasts, channel your inner ninja and slice them into strips that are about the same size as tenderloins.
- Soak the Chicken: Now it’s time for a chicken spa day! Place the chicken in a bowl and pour enough buttermilk over it to cover it completely. Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk while you prepare the other ingredients. Trust me, this step is worth it.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and white pepper to make the seasoned batter. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything is well combined.
- Make the Batter: Now it’s time to add some fizz to the mix! Stir club soda into the flour mixture to make a light and airy batter. It might seem weird at first, but trust me – it works!
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep fryer or large skillet to reach a depth of about 2 inches (no need to break out the ruler, just eyeball it). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using the skillet, use medium-high heat. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or just wing it like I do.
- Coat the Chicken: Take the chicken out of its buttermilk bath and pat it dry with paper towels. Dip each chicken strip into the batter, making sure it is completely coated. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil using tongs (or your fingers if you’re feeling brave). Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Precise time depends on the thickness of your chicken. If you want to be exact, make sure the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
- Drain the Chicken: Use tongs to remove the fried Chicken Critters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain (or just eat them straight out of the fryer, I won’t judge).
- Serve: Sprinkle some sea salt on top of the Chicken Critters and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce (or just eat them plain, they’re that good).
Now grab your favorite dipping sauce, gather your family around, and enjoy these mouthwatering chicken critters that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
What to Serve With Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters
Now that you’ve made these delicious Chicken Critters, it’s time to serve them up! But how should you serve them? Don’t worry, I’ve got some suggestions for you:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve the Chicken Critters with your favorite dipping sauce. Classics are ranch, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce. Or get creative and make your own sauce – check out my Popeye’s Sweet Heat Sauce and Secret Sonic Crave Sauce recipes. The possibilities are endless!
- Sides: Pair the Chicken Critters with some tasty sides. Some good options include fries, coleslaw, and baked beans. Or go for something healthier like a salad or roasted veggies.
- Presentation: Arrange the Chicken Critters on a platter and garnish with some fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. After all, we eat with our eyes first!
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s face it, even the best of apron aces run into problems in the kitchen from time to time. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions and common problems that people encounter when making Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters:
- Why are my Chicken Critters not crispy? Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying and don’t overcrowd the pot. Also, make sure to drain the Chicken Critters well on paper towels before serving. Nobody likes soggy Chicken Critters!
- Can I bake the Chicken Critters instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. They won’t be as crispy as the fried version, but they’ll still be delicious. Plus, you’ll save yourself some calories!
- Can I fry Chicken Critters in the Air Fryer: If you prefer to use an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the coated chicken critters in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch or overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken critters are golden brown and crispy. Enjoy a lower-fat version of your favorite chicken critters without sacrificing flavor!
- Can I use something other than buttermilk to soak the chicken? Yes, you can use regular milk or even yogurt to soak the chicken. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor, but it’s not absolutely necessary. So if you don’t have any on hand, don’t panic – just use what you’ve got!
Variations and Substitutes
Now, I know that not everyone has the same taste or access to the same ingredients, so let’s talk about some substitutes, alternatives, and variations for Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters recipe. No need to worry about your gluten-free, dairy-free, or any other kind of free friends – I’ve got you covered with some finger-lickin’ good options.
- Buttermilk Substitutes: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry – there are some easy substitutes you can use. You can make your own by mixing milk with a little bit of vinegar or lemon juice. Just let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens up and voila – homemade buttermilk! You can also use regular milk or yogurt to soak the chicken. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be a delicious recipe.
- Club Soda Alternatives: If you don’t have club soda, you can use any carbonated water or even beer to make the batter. The bubbles help keep the batter light and airy, so as long as it’s fizzy, it’ll work!
- Want to turn up the heat? If you want to make your Chicken Critters more (or less) spicy, try adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper in the batter or serving them with a milder (or spicier) dipping sauce.
- Spice variations: Want to switch things up a bit? Try adding some different spices to the batter or serving the Chicken Critters with a different dipping sauce. Some ideas to get you started: add some smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the batter for a smoky flavor, or serve the Chicken Critters with a spicy sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
- Gluten-free: Ah, gluten! The ingredient that makes our batter crisp and golden, yet a no-no for our celiac or gluten-sensitive buddies. No worries, though! Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend, making sure it’s free of gums or thickeners – we want our crispy critters, not gooey globs!
- Dairy-free: Buttermilk, with its tangy goodness, tenderizes our chicken, but it might not sit well with our lactose-intolerant or dairy-allergic pals. Fear not, fellow chefs! Use a dairy-free milk like almond or soy, and add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes, and voilà – you’ve got a tangy, dairy-free buttermilk alternative!
- Egg-free: Eggs? Not in our recipe, but cross-contamination can be a sneaky villain in the kitchen. Keep your cooking space egg-free by scrubbing all equipment and surfaces thoroughly before preparing these chicken delights.
- Vegetarian or vegan version: Veggies and vegans, I see you! To make this recipe plant-powered, use a soy or seitan-based “chicken” substitute that’s ready to be battered and fried. For our vegan friends, remember to use the dairy-free “buttermilk” concoction mentioned earlier.
- Sodium-free: Finally, let’s talk sodium. Need to cut down on salt? Opt for a low-sodium seasoning blend, and hold back on the sea salt sprinkle after frying. Your heart will thank you, and your taste buds will still be happy campers.
So there you have it, my kitchen whizzes! With these tweaks and twists, you can make Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters for everyone in your food-loving crew. Now go forth and fry up some inclusive, delicious goodness!
Other Texas Roadhouse Recipes You Will Love
If you love Texas Roadhouse as much as I do, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of other delicious recipes you can try at home. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Texas roadhouse herb crusted chicken: This flavorful chicken dish is coated in a mixture of herbs and seasonings before being cooked to perfection. Make sure to check this recipe out!
- Texas roadhouse portobello mushroom chicken: This tasty dish features grilled chicken topped with sautéed portobello mushrooms and melted cheese. Have a look at my recipe.
- Rattlesnake Bites: These spicy appetizers are made with diced jalapeños and jack cheese, breaded and fried until golden brown.
- Texas Red Chili: This hearty chili is made with sausage, beef, beans, and barley – perfect for a cold day.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: This healthy and delicious salad is made with grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing.
- Texas roadhouse smothered chicken: Savor the flavors of tender grilled chicken topped with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and melted cheese, making it a Texas Roadhouse favorite you’ll crave!
How to Store Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters
If you have any leftover Chicken Critters (which I doubt you will because they’re so tasty), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover Chicken Critters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label them so you don’t forget what they are (trust me, it happens).
- Freezer: You can also freeze leftover Chicken Critters for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. And don’t forget to label them with the date so you know when to use them by.
Savor the Flavor: Farewell and Final Tips
Well fellow apron aces, we’ve reached the end of our journey together. I hope this post has provided you with all the information you need to make delicious Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters at home. From gathering ingredients and equipment to preparing, cooking, serving, and storing – we’ve covered it all!
Don’t forget to try some of the substitutes, alternatives, and variations to make this recipe your own. And remember – cooking is all about having fun and experimenting in the kitchen. So go ahead and get creative! I believe in you. Happy cooking!
Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters Copycat Recipe
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been on the hunt for a delicious and easy copycat recipe for Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters. I mean, who doesn’t love those crispy, golden brown tenders soaked in buttermilk and fried to perfection?
Equipment
- 1 large bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 deep fryer (large skillet is an alternative)
- 1 tongs
- 4 paper towels
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins (boneless)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tbsp seasoning salt
- ⅓ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tbsp black pepper
- ½ tbsp white pepper
- ½ cup club soda
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 4-6 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using chicken tenderloins, give yourself a pat on the back and skip this step. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into strips that are about the same size as tenderloins.
- Soak the Chicken: Place the chicken in a bowl and pour enough buttermilk over it to cover it completely. Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and white pepper to make the seasoned batter. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything is well combined.
- Make the Batter: Stir club soda into the flour mixture to make a light and airy batter.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep fryer or large skillet to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350 °F. If you’re using the skillet, use medium-high heat. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or just wing it like I do.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Dip each chicken strip into the batter, making sure it is completely coated.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil using tongs. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Precise time depends on the thickness of your chicken. If you want to be exact, make sure the internal temperature has reached 165 °F.
- Drain the Chicken: Use tongs to remove the fried Chicken Critters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Serve: Sprinkle some sea salt on top of the Chicken Critters and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce (or just eat them plain, they’re that good).
Notes
- If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips similar in size to tenderloins.
- Don’t skip the buttermilk soak; it tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, use milk or yogurt.
- Club soda is essential to achieve a light and airy batter.
- Fry the chicken at the right temperature. Too low and your Chicken Critters will be greasy, too high and they’ll burn before cooking thoroughly.
- Allow the chicken to drain well on paper towels after frying for a crispier result.
- Adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the amount of cayenne pepper.
- This recipe is easily adaptable for different dietary needs: gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and even vegetarian/vegan with the right substitutes.
- For a healthier alternative, bake or air-fry the Chicken Critters.
Nutrition
Calories: 414kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 53gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 152mgSodium: 2368mgPotassium: 969mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 240IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 3mg
Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!