With the comforting aroma of crispy goodness filling the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me as I whip up this Ultimate Vegan Fried Chicken. Using large oyster mushrooms or tender canned jackfruit, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into an indulgent feast that rivals any traditional fried dish. Infused with the bold zest of pickled jalapeño juice and wrapped in a delightfully crispy batter, every bite offers a satisfying crunch that leaves you wanting more.
Whether you’re a long-time plant-based eater or simply searching for an exciting new dinner idea, this dish promises to please every palate at your table. Pair it with a rich, creamy gravy made with Follow Your Heart Dairy-Free Vegenaise, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for impressing friends at gatherings or just enjoying a cozy night in, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is this Vegan Fried Chicken a Must-Try?
Comforting and flavorful, this recipe brings the delectable taste of fried chicken to the plant-based table. Easy to customize, you can choose between large oyster mushrooms or canned jackfruit for varying textures. Crispy perfection is achieved with a zesty batter and aromatic spices, creating a crunch that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. Perfect for sharing, serve it at gatherings or cozy dinners to wow every guest. If you’re seeking more vegan delights, check out our plant-based recipe collection!
Vegan Fried Chicken Ingredients
• Experience the joy of cooking with this crave-worthy dish!
For the Batter
- Gluten-Free Flour – Acts as the primary coating flour; any gluten-free blend works perfectly.
- Tapioca Flour – Ensures extra crispiness; can be replaced with cornstarch for similar results.
- Onion Powder – Imparts savory depth to the batter.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts the flavor profile beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a delightful smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used in a pinch.
- Nutritional Yeast – Provides a cheese-like flavor and adds nutritional benefits.
- Cajun Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning – Infuses the batter with spice and complexity; choose based on your taste preference.
- Pink Himalayan Salt – Enhances seasoning; feel free to substitute with regular salt.
- Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
For the Marinade
- Large Oyster Mushrooms or Canned Jackfruit – Provides the meaty base for this dish; pick based on your texture preference.
- Pickled Jalapeño Juice – Delivers a spicy, tangy kick; adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
- Barbecue Sauce – Enhances the marinade’s sweetness for depth of flavor.
- Black Salt – Adds a unique, mineral taste to elevate the profile.
- Hot Sauce – Provides heat; tailor it according to spice preference.
For the Gravy
- Vegan Butter – Used for richness in the gravy; a key component for creamy texture.
- Onion Powder (for gravy) – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the gravy.
- Hot Vegetable Broth – Helps achieve the desired gravy consistency; adjust as needed.
- Follow Your Heart Vegenaise – Creates a creamy gravy; can substitute with other vegan mayo brands.
For Garnishing
- Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant flavor when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Vegan Fried Chicken
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Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine the pickled jalapeño juice, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce. Submerge the large oyster mushrooms or canned jackfruit in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
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Prepare Gravy: In a medium pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in the onion powder and gluten-free flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the hot vegetable broth, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency. Finally, mix in the Follow Your Heart Vegenaise for a creamy finish.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, tapioca flour, onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, and the salts. This blend will form your batter, providing the perfect crispy coating.
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Coat Mushrooms: Take the marinated mushrooms or jackfruit and dredge them in the dry mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Gently tap off any excess flour to achieve a crispy exterior.
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Fry: Heat grapeseed oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated mushrooms in the oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-5 minutes on each side.
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Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the mushrooms and place them on a towel to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with the creamy vegan gravy, garnishing with scattered chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: For extra crunch, air fry or bake the coated mushrooms at 450°F for 5-8 minutes after frying.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Fried Chicken
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Proper Marination: Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, giving the large oyster mushrooms or canned jackfruit time to absorb the bold flavors nicely.
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Heat the Oil: Always preheat grapeseed oil until shimmering before adding your mushrooms. This ensures a crispy vegan fried chicken rather than a soggy result.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy texture.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your vegan fried chicken by adjusting the quantity of pickled jalapeño juice and hot sauce according to your preferred heat level.
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Crispy Coating: Ensure an even coat of the flour mixture by tapping off the excess before frying, guaranteeing that your vegan fried chicken achieves that perfect crunch!
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Storage and Reheating: For the best leftovers, store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Fried Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftover vegan fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Keep it away from moisture to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
- Thawing: If frozen, let the vegan fried chicken thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Vegan Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these tantalizing twists and tailor the recipe to your family’s taste buds!
- Mushroom Medley: Try using a blend of different mushrooms like shiitake and portobello for diverse textures and flavors.
- Jackfruit Adventure: Swap the oyster mushrooms for pulled jackfruit for a softer, meat-like texture that’s still incredibly delicious.
- Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the dry coating for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the batter for a fragrant flavor boost that brightens every bite.
- Smoky BBQ: Brush some smoked barbecue sauce directly on the fried chicken after cooking for an intense smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
- Crispy Chickpea Coating: Replace half the gluten-free flour with chickpea flour for added protein and a unique flavor twist.
- Kid-Friendly Version: Reduce or eliminate the spicy elements by using sweet BBQ sauce and less hot sauce to cater to younger palates.
- Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle with a touch of agave syrup and sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving for a sweet and spicy sensation.
What to Serve with Vegan Fried Chicken?
With this mouthwatering dish ready to impress, let’s explore the delightful accompaniments that will elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the crispy vegan fried chicken, creating a comforting, indulgent plate.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A vibrant coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and acidity, balancing the savory richness of the fried chicken with every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide an earthy contrast and delightful texture, while their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of the dish.
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Classic Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a traditional side that brings warmth to the table, ideal for soaking up any remaining gravy.
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Spicy Dill Pickles: For those who love a zing, spicy dill pickles offer a delightful crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness, heightening the flavors.
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Vegan Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and a spritz of lemon brightens the meal and adds freshness to your plate.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like homemade lemonade or iced tea with mint complements the flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish with a decadent, rich dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, making for a perfect conclusion to a comforting meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Fried Chicken can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the large oyster mushrooms or canned jackfruit in the pickled jalapeño juice, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce up to 24 hours in advance to deepen the flavors. Additionally, the dry batter mixture can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to fry, simply dredge the marinated mushrooms in the pre-mixed flour blend and fry as directed, creating that deliciously crispy exterior. This prep method not only saves you time but ensures that you have a delightful dish with just as much flavor and texture!
Vegan Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of mushrooms should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using large oyster mushrooms for their meaty texture, but canned jackfruit also works beautifully. Both options absorb flavors well; choose based on your texture preference. If you opt for mushrooms, make sure they’re firm and without dark spots.
How should I store leftover vegan fried chicken?
Store your leftover vegan fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To maintain its crispy texture, keep it away from moisture and allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Can I freeze vegan fried chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why is my vegan fried chicken not crispy?
There could be a few reasons for soggy chicken. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan – this maintains the temperature needed for that satisfying crunch. Tap off excess flour before frying and always reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Is this recipe safe for gluten allergies?
Yes! This vegan fried chicken recipe uses gluten-free flour and tapioca flour, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check the labels for gluten-free certification as a precaution.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover vegan fried chicken?
For the best results, reheat your vegan fried chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps revive the crispiness while warming the insides without making them soggy. Avoid using the microwave to reheat, as it can lead to a softer coating.
Irresistible Vegan Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pickled jalapeño juice, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce. Submerge the large oyster mushrooms or canned jackfruit in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- In a medium pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in the onion powder and gluten-free flour to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the hot vegetable broth, stirring continuously until it thickens. Mix in the Follow Your Heart Vegenaise.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, tapioca flour, onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, and salts to form your batter.
- Dredge the marinated mushrooms or jackfruit in the dry mixture, tapping off excess flour.
- Heat grapeseed oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated mushrooms in the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Remove the fried mushrooms and place on a towel to drain excess oil. Serve hot with the creamy gravy and garnish with chopped green onions.