If you’ve ever craved the comforting texture and flavor of chicken but follow a vegan lifestyle, this easy vegan chicken recipe is here to satisfy your taste buds without compromise. Crafted from simple plant-based ingredients, this recipe mimics the juicy, tender bite of chicken with a perfect blend of spices and a delightful texture that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan looking for a new favorite or simply want to try a delicious meatless alternative, this recipe is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
With minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish on a busy weeknight or serve it at your next gathering to surprise your guests. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen.
Ready to dive into a flavorful plant-based meal? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chicken recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses wholesome, accessible ingredients like vital wheat gluten and chickpea flour to create a meaty texture that’s surprisingly close to real chicken.
No complicated or obscure components — just simple pantry staples!
Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can season it to suit your favorite cuisines, from classic American BBQ flavors to spicy Asian-inspired dishes.
The recipe also cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy nights when you want a fulfilling meal fast.
Finally, it’s a protein-packed vegan option that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking fresh, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to for plant-based comfort food.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vital wheat gluten | 1 ½ cups |
| Chickpea flour | ½ cup |
| Vegetable broth (warm) | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 3 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika (smoked or sweet) | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme | ½ tsp |
| Ground black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp or to taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: nutritional yeast | 2 tbsp (for added flavor) |
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium-sized)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Steamer basket or steaming apparatus
- Large pot or saucepan for steaming
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board (for slicing)
- Optional: food processor (if you want a smoother texture)
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and nutritional yeast if using. This dry mixture forms the base of your vegan chicken.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the warm vegetable broth, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk until well blended.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. It should be elastic but not too sticky. If too dry, add a splash more broth; if too wet, add a little more vital wheat gluten.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead for about 3-5 minutes. This develops the gluten and improves the texture, making it chewy and chicken-like.
- Shape the vegan chicken: Divide the dough into 4-6 pieces. Shape each piece into a chicken breast or nugget shape, depending on your preference.
- Steam the pieces: Place the shaped pieces in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 30 minutes. This step cooks the dough through and firms up the texture.
- Cool and slice: Remove the steamed pieces from the steamer and let them cool slightly. Slice or shred as desired for your recipe.
- Cook to finish: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Sear the vegan chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Use your vegan chicken in salads, sandwiches, stir-fries, or your favorite dishes!
Tips & Variations
“For extra flavor, marinate your vegan chicken in BBQ sauce or your favorite seasoning blend before cooking. You can also freeze the steamed pieces for up to 2 months — just thaw and cook when ready!”
If you want to boost the protein content, add a tablespoon of pea protein powder to the dry mix. For gluten-free options, try substituting vital wheat gluten with a blend of chickpea flour and tapioca starch, though texture may differ.
Experiment with spices to customize your vegan chicken. Add curry powder for an Indian twist or cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern flair.
Looking for inspiration? Check out our Veg Maharashtrian Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals for spice ideas.
Want an easy meal idea featuring this vegan chicken? Try it wrapped in a homemade tortilla from our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 piece approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
This recipe is a fantastic source of plant-based protein with moderate carbs and fat, making it a balanced option for a main course. Adjust salt and spices to your taste for a healthier or bolder flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this vegan chicken sliced over a fresh green salad or tossed into a hearty stir-fry with your favorite vegetables. It also works beautifully in wraps or sandwiches with crisp lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo.
For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed rice or quinoa and a side of roasted vegetables. If you love experimenting, try pairing it with some recipes from our collection like the Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals that complement plant-based proteins perfectly.
You can also shred the vegan chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas. Our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious is a great option to spice things up!
Conclusion
This easy vegan chicken recipe offers a delicious, nutritious, and versatile alternative to traditional chicken dishes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a plant-based protein that satisfies cravings and impresses guests.
The recipe’s adaptability means you can tailor it to fit any cuisine or occasion, making it a staple for vegan and flexitarian kitchens alike.
Not only does this dish deliver on taste and texture, but it also supports a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to for quick, comforting meals.
Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes on our site to keep your cooking exciting and flavorful!
📖 Recipe Card: Easy Vegan Chicken Recipe
Description: A quick and simple vegan chicken alternative made from seitan and flavorful spices. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chickpea flour
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth (for simmering)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, combine vegetable broth, soy sauce, olive oil, and chickpea flour.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 3-5 minutes until elastic.
- Shape the dough into a log and cut into 4 pieces.
- Simmer the pieces in 2 cups of vegetable broth for 20-25 minutes, covered.
- Remove and let cool before using in your favorite dishes.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 12 g
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