Craving that crunchy, satisfying bite of fried chicken without the meat? This crispy vegan fried chicken recipe is your answer. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish delivers all the flavors and textures you love, without any animal products. Trust me, your taste buds won’t miss the chicken!
Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a juicy and flavorful inside. This vegan version uses plant-based ingredients to create a delightful alternative that even non-vegans will adore. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauces or in a sandwich for a tasty twist!
The Appeal of Vegan Fried Chicken
Vegan fried chicken presents a satisfying alternative to traditional meat dishes. Its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior offer a delightful taste experience that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a comforting meal at home. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger spread, it brings a warm and inviting atmosphere to the table.
Creating the Perfect Texture
At the heart of this dish lies a unique combination of plant-based proteins that closely mimic the texture of chicken.
Using vital wheat gluten and chickpea flour, the recipe achieves a hearty, meaty bite. The secret to its addictive crunch comes from a crispy batter that envelops each piece, providing the satisfying crunch everyone craves.
Flavorful Seasoning Blend
The key to delivering a rich taste is the blend of spices incorporated into the coating.
With garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, this dish showcases a savory profile that’s enhanced by the optional touch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This flavorful mix ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Cooking Techniques for Success
Preparation involves a few essential steps that ensure a perfectly executed vegan fried chicken.
After steaming the dough pieces, they are coated in a mixture of plant-based milk and seasoned flour. This double-coating technique guarantees that the final fry yields a crispy and golden finish that is hard to resist.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, these crispy vegan chicken pieces shine when served alongside a variety of dipping sauces.
A classic BBQ sauce or a creamy ranch dressing pairs beautifully, allowing for a customizable eating experience. For those feeling adventurous, serving them in a sandwich with fresh veggies and condiments adds another layer of delight.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This vegan fried chicken isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients! Providing a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, it can be part of a wholesome meal.
With each piece providing a satisfying crunch, it invites everyone to enjoy a deliciously guilt-free indulgence that feels both hearty and wholesome.
The Best Crispy Vegan Fried Chicken
This vegan fried chicken is made with a hearty plant-based protein that mimics the texture of meat, coated in a seasoned, crunchy batter. It’s a delightful blend of spices and flavors, making it a hit for any occasion.
The taste is savory, with a hint of spice, and the crunch is satisfyingly addictive, making it hard to stop at just one piece.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Slowly add vegetable broth while stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic. Shape it into pieces resembling chicken fillets.
- Cook the Chicken: Steam the dough pieces for about 20 minutes until firm. Allow them to cool.
- Prepare the Coating: In one bowl, place plant-based milk. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of steamed chicken into the plant-based milk, then coat it with the flour mixture. Repeat to ensure a thick coating.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Enjoy your crispy vegan fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauces or in a sandwich.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g