If you’ve been craving the satisfying, savory taste of a classic chicken sandwich but want to keep your meal completely plant-based, you’re in for a treat. This vegan chicken sandwich recipe delivers all the flavor, texture, and heartiness you expect from your favorite sandwich, without any animal products.
Using a combination of wholesome ingredients and clever seasoning, this recipe creates a crispy, juicy, and flavorful vegan “chicken” patty that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend treat.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply exploring more plant-based options, this sandwich is easy to make and sure to impress. You’ll love how the crispy coating contrasts with the tender interior, and the fresh toppings add the perfect balance of crunch and zest.
Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Let’s get started on crafting the ultimate vegan chicken sandwich that’s both delicious and nourishing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chicken sandwich is a fantastic alternative for anyone looking to enjoy a classic comfort food without compromising their values. It’s:
- Rich in flavor: The seasoning blend perfectly mimics the savory, herby taste of traditional chicken.
- Texturally satisfying: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, thanks to a clever use of plant-based ingredients.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas and vital wheat gluten, plus fresh veggies for added vitamins.
- Customizable: Easily adjust toppings, bread choice, or sauces to fit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy sandwiches throughout the week.
For more wholesome plant-based ideas, don’t miss our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade for a wrap-style variation.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Chickpeas (cooked, drained) | 1 1/2 cups (about 1 can) | Rinsed and drained |
Vital wheat gluten | 3/4 cup | For the chewy texture |
Vegetable broth | 3/4 cup | Warm, for mixing dough |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp + for frying | Use extra virgin for best flavor |
Nutritional yeast | 2 tbsp | Adds umami and cheesy flavor |
Soy sauce or tamari | 1 tbsp | For depth of flavor |
Garlic powder | 1 tsp | |
Onion powder | 1 tsp | |
Paprika (smoked preferred) | 1 tsp | |
Ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp | |
Salt | 1 tsp | Or to taste |
All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup | For dredging |
Plant-based milk (unsweetened) | 1/2 cup | For batter |
Panko breadcrumbs (vegan) | 3/4 cup | For crispy coating |
Burger buns (vegan) | 4 buns | To serve |
Lettuce leaves | 4 leaves | Fresh and crisp |
Tomato slices | 8 slices | |
Vegan mayo or your favorite sauce | As needed | To spread on buns |
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or tongs
- Baking sheet (optional for oven-finish)
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk or fork (for batter)
Instructions
- Prepare the chickpea mixture: In a food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth but retains some texture for bite. Avoid overprocessing to keep it from becoming too pasty.
- Make the dough: Transfer the chickpea mixture to a large bowl. Add the vital wheat gluten and stir to combine. Slowly pour in the warm vegetable broth and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, mixing with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms. Knead for about 2-3 minutes until elastic but not sticky.
- Shape the patties: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a patty roughly the size of your burger buns, about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a plate or tray.
- Prepare the dredging stations: In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk with a pinch of salt. In a third bowl, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the patties: One at a time, dredge each patty in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the milk mixture, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. This triple coating ensures a crispy crust.
- Cook the patties: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties carefully and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If you prefer, transfer them to a baking sheet and finish cooking in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread vegan mayo or your favorite sauce on the bun bottoms, then layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and the hot vegan chicken patties. Top with bun lids.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. For more sandwich inspiration, check out our Copycat Vegan Recipes: Make Your Favorites at Home.
Tips & Variations
“For the crispiest patties, use panko breadcrumbs and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.”
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute vital wheat gluten with mashed chickpeas mixed with ground flaxseed and a gluten-free flour blend, though texture will be softer.
- Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Try different coatings: Use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a unique crunch.
- Flavorful sauces: Swap vegan mayo for BBQ sauce, vegan ranch, or spicy sriracha for variety.
- Extra veggies: Add sliced pickles, avocado, or caramelized onions for more layers of flavor and texture.
- Make it a wrap: Use the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade to turn this into a delicious wrap.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 sandwich) |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 22 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
Sodium | 620 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chicken sandwich pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out your meal. Consider serving it with crispy baked sweet potato fries or a fresh kale salad tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
For a heartier meal, add a cup of homemade soup like our High Protein Vegan Soup Recipes for Healthy Meals.
You can also enjoy it alongside a refreshing iced tea or a creamy vegan chocolate milk from our Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide. This sandwich is perfect for casual family dinners, picnics, or even a game day snack.
Conclusion
This vegan chicken sandwich recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic sandwich while keeping things plant-based and wholesome. The combination of chickpeas and vital wheat gluten yields a patty with perfect chewiness and a crispy crust that will satisfy any craving for “chicken.” Best of all, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store, and it’s versatile enough to customize to your liking.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to explore more creative plant-based dishes like the flavorful Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious, which pairs beautifully with this sandwich for a full meal experience.
Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your tasty vegan creation!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Chicken Sandwich
Description: A delicious and healthy vegan chicken sandwich made with seasoned chickpea patties and fresh veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 vegan sandwich buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Vegan mayonnaise or mustard, for spreading
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mash chickpeas until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, paprika, and pepper; mix well.
- Form mixture into 4 patties.
- Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Toast sandwich buns lightly.
- Assemble sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, patties, and vegan mayo or mustard.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 45 g
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