Chicken Pasta Recipes Vegan Options for Delicious Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for a comforting, hearty dish that fits perfectly into a vegan lifestyle? Chicken pasta is a classic favorite, but what if you want to keep it plant-based without sacrificing flavor or texture?

Enter the world of vegan “chicken” pasta recipes! By using innovative ingredients like soy curls, seitan, or jackfruit, you can recreate the satisfying bite and savory taste of chicken, combined with your favorite pasta and a rich sauce.

This guide will walk you through delicious, wholesome vegan chicken pasta recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring more plant-based options, these recipes offer the perfect balance of protein, flavor, and comfort. Plus, with plenty of tips, variations, and serving suggestions, you’ll find inspiration to customize each dish to your taste buds.

Let’s dive in and discover how to create mouthwatering vegan chicken pasta dishes that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses plant-based “chicken” alternatives that provide a meaty texture and rich flavor without any animal products.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food while sticking to vegan principles.

Additionally, the recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite pasta shapes or customize the sauce to suit your preferences—whether you prefer creamy, tomato-based, or pesto sauces.

It’s also loaded with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping, so you can enjoy delicious vegan meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 200g vegan chicken substitute (soy curls, seitan strips, or jackfruit)
  • 250g pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice; use gluten-free if preferred)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup vegan cream (cashew cream or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Optional: nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Colander or strainer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowl (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Rehydrate the vegan chicken: If using soy curls, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess water. If using seitan or jackfruit, shred or slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Cook the vegan chicken: Add the prepared vegan chicken substitute to the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and heated through.
  5. Add vegetables: Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the chopped spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  6. Create the sauce: Pour in the vegan cream and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Toss with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and combined with the vegan chicken and vegetables.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For an extra protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or white beans along with the vegan chicken substitute.

  • Switch up the vegan chicken: Experiment with different plant-based proteins like tempeh or marinated tofu for varied texture and taste.
  • Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
  • Try different sauces: Swap the creamy sauce for a tomato basil sauce or a garlicky pesto to suit your mood.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your vegan chicken substitute is gluten-free if needed.
  • Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fat 10g
Fiber 6g
Sodium 350mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

For a colorful touch, garnish with extra fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also offer a side of steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to round out the plate beautifully.

If you’re interested in exploring more vegan or plant-based recipes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe and Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for delicious vegetable-forward dishes.

More Vegan Chicken Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Vegan Mushroom “Chicken” Pasta

This recipe swaps traditional chicken with king oyster mushrooms, sliced and sautéed until tender. The creamy sauce is made from cashews blended with nutritional yeast and garlic, creating a rich, indulgent dish that’s both satisfying and dairy-free.

Spicy Vegan Buffalo “Chicken” Pasta

Using shredded jackfruit tossed in vegan buffalo sauce, this pasta packs a punch. Combine it with penne and a cooling avocado ranch dressing to balance the heat, making for a fun twist on classic buffalo chicken pasta.

Vegan Pesto “Chicken” Pasta

Here, seitan strips are cooked and tossed with your favorite vegan pesto, cherry tomatoes, and spiral pasta. It’s a fresh, herbaceous dish perfect for warm-weather meals or light dinners.

Vegan BBQ “Chicken” Mac and Cheese

For a comfort food favorite, use vegan BBQ “chicken” pieces combined with a creamy vegan cheese sauce and elbow macaroni. This dish is smoky, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

For more inspiration on plant-based dishes, you might also enjoy our Pcos Chicken Recipes page, which includes many versatile vegan and vegetarian options.

Conclusion

Vegan chicken pasta recipes open up a world of delicious, comforting meals without compromising your dietary choices. Whether you choose soy curls, seitan, jackfruit, or mushrooms as your “chicken” substitute, these dishes deliver satisfying textures and bold flavors that everyone can enjoy.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s never been easier to whip up a nourishing pasta dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces, spices, and vegetables to make these recipes your own.

If you’re passionate about plant-based cooking, be sure to explore other creative recipes like our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe and Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan for sweet and savory treats alike.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the flavorful journey of vegan chicken pasta dishes!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Chicken Pasta

Description: A delicious plant-based pasta dish featuring vegan chicken strips and a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz vegan chicken strips
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add vegan chicken strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in coconut cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
  6. Add nutritional yeast, basil, pepper, and salt; simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
  8. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and mix well.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 52 g

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Marta K

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