Vegan Chicken Recipe

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this Ultimate Vegan “Chicken” recipe will blow your mind. Imagine crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed pieces of “chicken” that are completely plant-based but taste just as satisfying as the real thing. Whether you’re craving fried, grilled, or baked “chicken,” this recipe has got you covered.

The secret to this incredible dish? A blend of seitan (a high-protein wheat gluten) and tofu, seasoned and textured to perfection, then breaded and cooked until golden and crispy. It’s tender on the inside, with a crunchy, flavorful exterior, making it the perfect meat alternative. You can serve this vegan “chicken” with your favorite sides, use it in sandwiches, or even toss it into a salad—it’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ready to create a delicious plant-based meal that will satisfy even the most devoted meat-lovers? Let’s dive into the details of how to make this amazing vegan “chicken” from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Incredible Texture and Flavor

The combination of tofu and seitan creates a texture that’s surprisingly similar to real chicken, with a tender interior and a crispy, golden exterior. The seasoning blend adds layers of flavor, from savory to spicy, making each bite irresistible.

2. Protein-Packed

This vegan “chicken” is loaded with plant-based protein, thanks to the combination of seitan (which is almost pure protein) and tofu. It’s a great way to fuel your body with essential nutrients while enjoying a delicious meal.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Whether you want to bake, fry, or grill this vegan “chicken,” the recipe is easily adaptable to your preferred cooking method. You can also tweak the spices to suit your taste—make it spicy, smoky, or even lemony!

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This vegan “chicken” can be made in batches and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal option for meal prepping. You can enjoy it throughout the week in wraps, salads, sandwiches, or as a standalone protein.

5. Vegan and Dairy-Free

Completely plant-based and dairy-free, this recipe is perfect for vegans or anyone with dietary restrictions. It’s also free from eggs, making it ideal for those with allergies.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30-40 minutes (depending on cooking method)
• Total time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: 180
• Protein: 24g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ultimate Vegan “Chicken”:

For the Seitan Base:

• 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten (this forms the base of the seitan)
• 1/2 cup firm tofu (adds softness and moisture to the seitan)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, savory flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (gives that classic “chicken” flavor)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds umami and saltiness)
• 3/4 cup vegetable broth (for moisture and flavor)

For the Breading:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy coating)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (to curdle the plant milk and create a “buttermilk” effect)

For Frying or Baking:

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying or brushing on if baking)

Optional Garnishes and Sauces:

• Vegan mayo (for serving as a dipping sauce)
• BBQ sauce or hot sauce (for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Why These Ingredients?

• Vital Wheat Gluten: This is the key ingredient that gives the “chicken” its meaty texture. When mixed with liquid, it forms a stretchy dough that mimics the texture of meat.
• Tofu: Adds softness and moisture, preventing the seitan from becoming too rubbery or tough.
• Nutritional Yeast: Provides a cheesy, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the vegan “chicken.”
• Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary that replicates the flavor of traditional chicken dishes.
• Breadcrumbs: For a crispy, golden coating that mimics fried chicken.
• Plant-Based Milk and Vinegar: This creates a vegan version of buttermilk, helping the breading stick to the “chicken.”

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to cook up some delicious vegan “chicken”? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor.

1. Prepare the Seitan Dough

Blend the Tofu:

• In a food processor or blender, add the firm tofu, vegetable broth, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, poultry seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
• Blend until smooth, making sure the tofu is fully broken down into the liquid. This will serve as the base for the seitan dough.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten with the tofu mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 3-5 minutes to develop the gluten, which will give the “chicken” its chewy, meaty texture.

Pro Tip: Don’t over-knead the dough! You want the dough to be firm but not too rubbery. The less you knead, the softer the texture will be.

2. Shape and Cook the Seitan

Divide the Dough:

• Divide the seitan dough into 6 equal pieces. You can shape them into cutlets, nuggets, or tenders depending on how you plan to serve them.

Steam the Seitan:

• Place the shaped seitan pieces in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for 25-30 minutes. This process helps the seitan firm up while keeping it tender.
• Once done, remove the seitan from the steamer and let it cool slightly.

Pro Tip: Steaming is key to making the seitan “chicken” tender and chewy. You can also bake or boil the seitan, but steaming produces the best texture.

3. Prepare the Breading Station

Set Up the Dredging Bowls:

• In one bowl, whisk together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
• In a second bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar to create the vegan “buttermilk.”
• In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.

Bread the Seitan:

• Dip each piece of steamed seitan into the flour mixture, coating all sides. Then, dip it into the vegan “buttermilk,” and finally, coat it in breadcrumbs, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the seitan to help them stick.
• Repeat this process with all pieces of seitan, placing them on a baking sheet as you go.

4. Cook the Vegan “Chicken”

You can choose between frying, baking, or air-frying your vegan “chicken” depending on your preference. Here’s how to do each:

Frying Method:

• Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded seitan pieces in the skillet.
• Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Baking Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Brush the breaded seitan pieces lightly with oil on both sides and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the “chicken” is golden and crispy.

Air-Frying Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the breaded seitan with oil.
• Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegan “chicken” is crispy and golden.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once your vegan “chicken” is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve! Here are a few ways to enjoy this delicious plant-based dish:

• As a Sandwich: Pile the vegan “chicken” on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo for a mouthwatering sandwich.
• With a Side of Fries: Serve alongside crispy fries, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• **In a Wrap**: Slice the vegan “chicken” into strips and wrap it up with veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a delicious lunch or dinner.
• As a Salad Topper: Add sliced vegan “chicken” on top of a fresh green salad for extra protein and crunch.

Additional Tips

To make sure your Ultimate Vegan “Chicken” comes out perfect every time, here are a few extra tips:

1. Let the Seitan Rest

After steaming the seitan, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before breading and cooking. This helps the seitan firm up, making it easier to handle and bread.

2. Add Extra Flavor

If you like your “chicken” extra flavorful, add some herbs or spices to the breading mixture. Rosemary, thyme, or even nutritional yeast can give the coating an extra boost of flavor.

3. Make It Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, replace the vital wheat gluten with a gluten-free meat substitute like jackfruit or soy curls, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

4. Adjust the Cooking Time

If you’re making smaller pieces like nuggets, reduce the cooking time slightly when frying or baking to avoid overcooking the “chicken.”

5. Make Ahead for Meal Prep

You can prepare the seitan “chicken” ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before breading and cooking. This makes it great for meal prep!

Recipe Variations

Here are a few ways to customize this recipe and make it your own:

1. Spicy Vegan “Chicken”

Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breading for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle the cooked “chicken” with buffalo sauce for a spicy buffalo-style vegan dish.

2. Lemon Herb Vegan “Chicken”

Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil to the breading for a fresh, lemony flavor.

3. BBQ Vegan “Chicken”

Baste the seitan with BBQ sauce before breading and cooking for a smoky, sweet BBQ version of vegan “chicken.” Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

4. Grilled Vegan “Chicken”

For a grilled version, skip the breading and brush the seitan with olive oil and herbs. Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until slightly charred.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftover vegan “chicken” in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

Freezing: You can freeze the breaded, uncooked seitan for up to 3 months. Place the breaded “chicken” pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Special Equipment

• Steamer Basket: For steaming the seitan.
• Skillet: For frying the breaded seitan if you choose the frying method.
• Air Fryer or Oven: For air-frying or baking.

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Vital wheat gluten is the main ingredient in seitan, so this recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can use alternatives like jackfruit or soy curls if you need a gluten-free option.

Can I use store-bought seitan?

Yes! If you don’t want to make your own seitan, you can use store-bought seitan and simply follow the breading and cooking steps.

What’s the best way to reheat vegan “chicken”?

The best way to reheat vegan “chicken” is in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the seitan ahead of time, bread it, and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, baking is a great option for a healthier version of this recipe. Simply brush the breaded seitan with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered the Ultimate Vegan “Chicken” recipe, you’ve got a versatile, protein-packed, and absolutely delicious plant-based dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re frying it up for a crispy sandwich, baking it for a healthier option, or meal prepping for the week, this vegan “chicken” is sure to satisfy even the most devoted meat-eaters.

The combination of seitan and tofu creates a texture that’s remarkably similar to real chicken, while the seasoning and breading give it all the flavor you crave. Plus, with the option to fry, bake, or grill, this recipe is endlessly customizable.

I’d love to see how your vegan “chicken” turns out—don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious, plant-based masterpiece!

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