Best Vegan Chicken Fried Steak Recipe for Easy Dinner

Who says you can’t enjoy the comforting, crispy goodness of chicken fried steak on a vegan diet? This best vegan chicken fried steak recipe brings all the nostalgic flavors and textures of the classic Southern favorite — but without any animal products.

Using hearty plant-based ingredients and a flavorful seasoned batter, this recipe delivers a satisfyingly crispy crust with a tender, savory interior. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to try something new, this dish is a perfect way to indulge in a soul-satisfying meal that’s both cruelty-free and utterly delicious.

Perfect for weekend dinners or special occasions, this vegan chicken fried steak pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich vegan gravy. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring just a few pantry staples and some simple steps.

Ready to dive into this delightful comfort food makeover? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chicken fried steak recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it perfectly mimics the classic texture of fried steak with a crispy, golden crust and a tender, flavorful center made from plant-based ingredients.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Southern dish without compromising your dietary choices.

Additionally, the recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that many home cooks already have on hand. The batter is seasoned just right to give you that familiar savory punch, and the frying method ensures a crunchy coating every time.

It’s a great introduction to vegan comfort food and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Finally, this dish is versatile. You can easily pair it with vegan mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a fresh salad.

For more vegan comfort food ideas, check out our Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu or 1 package of seitan (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, almond, or oat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour (for extra binding and crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for savory flavor)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch
• Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Shallow dishes or pie plates for dredging
• Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Paper towels or a cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu or seitan: If using tofu, press it well to remove excess water. Slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces. If using seitan, slice similarly. Set aside.
2. Make vegan buttermilk: In a bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a shallow dish, whisk together all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and thyme. This seasoned flour will give the coating its signature flavor.
4. Prepare dipping stations: Set up three shallow dishes: one with the seasoned flour mixture, one with the vegan buttermilk, and one with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with nutritional yeast and remaining salt.
5. Dredge the tofu/seitan: First, dip each piece into the flour mixture, coating completely. Then dip into the vegan buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. Repeat for all pieces.
6. Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a non-stick skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F if using a thermometer).
7. Fry the steaks: Carefully place coated tofu/seitan pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
8. Drain and rest: Transfer fried steaks to a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack to drain excess oil.
9. Make vegan gravy (optional): Use the same pan to make a quick vegan gravy. Whisk in vegetable broth, a bit of flour, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Cook until thickened. Pour over the fried steaks when serving.

Tips & Variations

For the crispiest coating, double dredge by repeating the flour-buttermilk-breadcrumb steps once more before frying.

If you want to add a smoky depth, try adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked chipotle powder to the flour mixture. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like rice flour and gluten-free panko.

Instead of tofu or seitan, you can experiment with thick slices of king oyster mushrooms, which have a meaty texture and absorb flavors beautifully. For a richer gravy, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and adapt it as a base.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chicken fried steak pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides for a full comfort food experience. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a generous ladle of vegan gravy for a hearty meal.

Add steamed green beans or sautéed collard greens to balance the plate with fresh veggies.

For a lighter option, consider pairing with a crisp, tangy slaw or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. You might also love it with some oven-roasted vegetables or a bowl of our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating to round out your meal.

Conclusion

This best vegan chicken fried steak recipe offers a deliciously crispy, flavorful alternative to the traditional dish, perfect for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle or wanting to try something new and exciting.

It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers all the comfort and satisfaction of classic Southern cooking without any compromise.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to explore more tasty vegan recipes like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or the Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals to keep your plant-based menu exciting and varied.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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