Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters Recipe If you love Texas Roadhouse, you’ve undoubtedly tasted their famed Chicken Critters recipe Texas Roadhouse. Zest this up a notch with crispy, juicy chicken tenders one of the most popular menu items, known for its tender textured balanced with the perfect crunch. In this guide, we are going to discuss everything you should know about Chicken Critters Texas Roadhouse, including a detailed recipe to make this restaurant favorite at home.

What Are Chicken Critters at Texas Roadhouse?

Chicken Critters Texas Roadhouse
Chicken Critters Texas Roadhouse

Chicken Critters” at Texas Roadhouse is what they call their signature chicken tenders. These seasoned white-meat chicken strips are hand-dipped and fried golden crisp with moist insides. Accompanied by complementary dipping sauces, they are a patron favorite for their flavorful palatability and throughput.

Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters

To recreate this dish at home, gather the following ingredients:

  • Chicken Tenderloins: 1 pound of boneless, skinless tenderloins.
  • Buttermilk: 2 cups, for marinating the chicken.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup, for the batter.
  • Seasoning Salt: 2 tablespoons, to enhance flavor.
  • Cayenne Pepper: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of heat.
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground.
  • White Pepper: 1 teaspoon, for additional depth.
  • Club Soda: 1 cup, to create a light, airy batter.
  • Sea Salt: To taste, for seasoning after frying.
  • Vegetable Oil: For frying; canola or peanut oil works well.

Note: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor, while the club soda in the batter ensures a crispy coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Chicken Critters Marinate the Chicken
Marinate the Chicken
  1. Add the chicken tenderloins to a bowl, and pour the buttermilk on top (there should be enough that the buttermilk completely covers the chicken).
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight gives the best results.

Prepare the Batter

Prepare the Batter Chicken Critters
Prepare the Batter
  1. In a bowl, mix together the flour with the seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper and white pepper.
  2. Slowly whisk in the club soda until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Heat the Oil

Heat the Oil Chicken Critters
Heat the Oil
  1. Fill a deep fryer or large skillet with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches.
  2. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer helps to ensure that the temperature is right.

Coat the Chicken

Coat the Chicken Chicken Critters
Coat the Chicken
  1. Take the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, then pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. Coat each brussel sprout piece in batter.

Fry the Chicken

Fry the Chicken Chicken Critters
Fry the Chicken
  1. Add the battered pieces gently to the smoking-hot oil don’t crowd the pan.
  2. Fry each piece for 3 to 7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
  3. Using tongs, remove the chicken and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serve

Serve Chicken Critters
Serve
  1. Sprinkle the chicken with sea salt while it is still hot.
  2. Serve with the dipping sauces of your choice, like honey mustard, ranch or barbecue sauce.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 480
Protein 45g
Total Fat 20g
Carbohydrates 30g
Sodium 800mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

How to Make the Best Chicken Critters

  • Even Sizes: Cut pieces of chicken to a similar size for even cooking.
  • Oil Temp: Keep the oil at 350°F so the outside gets crispy without overcooking the inside.
  • Work in the Rest: Allow the batter to rest for several minutes before running the chicken pieces through it, giving the flour time to hydrate fully.

Different Models of Chicken Critters

Spicy Chicken Critters

For a spicier version, add extra cayenne pepper and a splash of hot sauce to the batter.

Baked Chicken Critters

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Arrange on a greased baking sheet and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Critters with these classic sides:

  • Fries: Seasoned with salt and pepper.
  • Mashed Potatoes: With a dollop of butter.
  • Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch.

For a lighter option, serve the chicken over a fresh garden salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Chicken Critters different from traditional tenders?

The Chicken Critters have a hand-batter unique seasoning blend that gives flavor to the chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts in place of the tenderloins?

Yes, cut boneless chicken breasts into strips the same size as tenderloins.

Do you need the buttermilk marinade?

Marinating in buttermilk extends tenderness, and adds flavor, but you can use milk and lemon juice instead if you don’t have any.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend for the batter and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as canola or peanut oil, are best.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. (This is best reheated in an oven or air fryer.)

Conclusion

It turns out making Chicken Critters Texas Roadhouse is simpler than you would think. These flavorful, crispy chicken tenders are completely doable at home, using simple ingredients and a bit of patience, whenever you get the craving. Whether you’re putting on a family dinner, or just trying to placate a craving, this recipe will deliver restaurant quality food to the dinner table.

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