Looking for a delicious and cruelty-free alternative to your favorite chicken dishes? Vegan chicken recipes offer the perfect solution for those wanting to enjoy the comforting flavors and satisfying textures of chicken without any animal products.
Whether you’re a committed vegan, someone reducing meat consumption, or simply curious to try something new, these recipes bring the best of plant-based cooking to your table. Crafted from ingredients like soy, seitan, or jackfruit, vegan chicken can be seasoned, fried, baked, or grilled just like the original, delivering mouthwatering results every time.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite vegan chicken recipe that’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and bursting with flavor. Along the way, I’ll provide helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions so you can customize it to your liking.
Ready to impress friends and family with this tasty plant-based alternative? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chicken recipe is a true game-changer for anyone craving that familiar savory taste and satisfying texture of traditional chicken. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, it replicates the chewiness and flavor profile perfectly.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to use in a variety of dishes—from salads and sandwiches to stir-fries and casseroles.
Not only is it high in protein and fiber, but it’s also free from cholesterol and packed with nutrients. The recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring minimal prep time and no specialized equipment.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this vegan chicken will quickly become a pantry staple.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vital wheat gluten | 1 ½ cups |
| Nutritional yeast | ¼ cup |
| Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable broth (plus extra for cooking) | 1 cup + 4 cups |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: smoked paprika or liquid smoke | 1 tsp / few drops |
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Large pot or deep skillet with lid
- Steamer basket or colander (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels or clean kitchen towel
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Whisk together to distribute the spices evenly.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix the vegetable broth, soy sauce, olive oil, and smoked paprika or liquid smoke if using.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gradually, stirring with a fork or spoon until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough: Using your hands, knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes. It should be elastic but firm. If it feels too sticky, add a little more vital wheat gluten; if too dry, add a splash of broth.
- Shape and rest: Shape the dough into a log or flatten it slightly, then cover and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and improves texture.
- Prepare to simmer: Bring 4 cups of vegetable broth to a simmer in a large pot. You can add extra soy sauce or seasoning to the broth for more flavor.
- Cook the vegan chicken: Place the dough log into the simmering broth. Cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes, turning once halfway. Do not boil vigorously to avoid toughening.
- Cool and slice: Remove the dough from the broth and let it cool slightly on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice or shred it into desired pieces.
- Final texture step: For a crispy finish, pan-fry the slices in a little oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Use or store: Use immediately in your favorite recipes or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips & Variations
“Make sure to simmer gently rather than boil the vegan chicken dough to keep it tender and juicy.”
Customize the flavor: Experiment with different spices such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder to match the cuisine you’re craving. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the broth can also elevate the taste.
Try jackfruit alternative: If you want a shredded texture without using gluten, young green jackfruit is a fantastic option. Simply drain, rinse, and sauté jackfruit with spices for a quick vegan chicken substitute.
Make it gluten-free: For those avoiding wheat, try using soy curls or textured vegetable protein (TVP) instead of vital wheat gluten. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
For more creative vegan meal ideas, check out my Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade for perfect wraps.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
These nutrition facts make this vegan chicken an excellent high-protein, low-fat choice suitable for active lifestyles or anyone looking to boost plant-based protein intake.
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chicken is incredibly versatile. Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps with fresh veggies and vegan mayo.
It’s fantastic tossed into salads for a protein boost or served alongside steamed rice and sautéed greens for a wholesome meal.
Try it in stir-fries with bell peppers, broccoli, and your favorite sauce, or shred it to top vegan pizzas and casseroles. For a fun twist, use it in place of chicken in classic dishes like vegan chicken salad or tacos.
If you love experimenting with plant-based recipes, be sure to visit my Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor for inspiration that pairs beautifully with this vegan chicken.
Conclusion
Creating satisfying vegan chicken at home is easier than you think, and this recipe proves it. By using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can enjoy the taste and texture of chicken in a compassionate, healthy way.
The high protein content, combined with the ability to customize flavors, makes it perfect for a wide range of dishes and occasions.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based eating, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your perfect match.
For even more delicious plant-based recipes, check out the Veganomicon Recipes Online: Best Dishes to Try Today—a treasure trove of tasty ideas.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your flavorful journey into vegan chicken delights!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Chicken Stir-Fry
Description: A flavorful and easy vegan chicken stir-fry using plant-based chicken strips. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g vegan chicken strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cooked rice, to serve
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add vegan chicken strips and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili flakes; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and serve over cooked rice.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 30 g
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