The Ultimate Crispy Vegan Chicken Sandwich
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a cheeky Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich that's proper banging? Honestly, who doesn't love a Crispy Chicken Sandwich ? Get ready for a Plant Based Sandwich that'll blow your mind!
Brief Overview
This recipe takes inspo from the iconic American Crispy Chicken Sandwich . But it's a vegan version! It's a meduim difficulty to make.
Takes about 1 hour 50 minutes total. Makes 4 delicious sandwiches. It’s a bit of a labour of love but so worth it.
Main Benefits
This Homemade Vegan Chicken is packed with protein from the seitan. It's perfect for a Saturday lunch with your mates.
This Vegan Comfort Food is naughty but nice. Seriously, it’s miles better than what you'll get at the takeaway.
Let's talk ingredients, yeah? First, you'll need stuff for the Seitan Chicken Recipe . Trust me, homemade seitan is the way to go.
It's what makes this Vegan Fried Chicken Alternative so realistic! I remember the first time I made seitan. It was a bit of a faff.
But once I nailed the texture, it was game on.
Next up, we need to think about the breading. This is where the magic happens, creating that Crispy Chicken Sandwich vibe.
I went through a phase of trying all sorts of Chicken Substitute options. Fried Oyster Mushrooms are alright, but nothing beats seitan for that proper chicken like chew, innit? You can even use Oyster Mushroom Recipe to marinate.
And don't forget the sauce! A good sauce can make or break a sandwich, you know? It's got to have that tangy, zesty kick to cut through the richness of the fried "chicken".
It’s like the cheeky wink in a perfectly told joke.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up the Ultimate Crispy Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich . Seriously, this isn't your average plant based sandwich ; it's next level stuff!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Here’s the lowdown on what you'll need, measurements and all. Don't skip this part, yeah?
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For the Seitan "Chicken" Fillets:
- 1 cup ( 120 g) vital wheat gluten. This is your chicken substitute , so get the good stuff.
- 1/2 cup ( 60 g) nutritional yeast.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Only if you want a bit of a kick, yeah?
- 1 cup ( 240 ml) vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup ( 60 ml) unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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For the Breading:
- 1 cup ( 120 g) all-purpose flour.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup ( 240 ml) plant based milk
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For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ( 120 g) vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
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For Assembly:
- 4 brioche buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickle slices
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Seasoning Notes
Let's talk flavour. This Vegan Fried Chicken Alternative needs to PACK a punch.
- Essential spice combo: Garlic, onion, and paprika. It's like the holy trinity.
- Flavor enhancers: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth. Cayenne brings the heat.
- Substitutions: No smoked paprika? Regular paprika will do in a pinch. Honestly, I reckon you can play around with the spices to find your perfect homemade vegan chicken flavour.
Equipment Needed
Right, here's what you'll need from the kitchen. Don't go buying loads of stuff, yeah? Keep it simple!
- Large mixing bowls.
- Whisk.
- Steamer basket.
- Shallow dishes for breading.
- Large skillet or deep fryer.
- Tongs.
- Instant read thermometer.
- Wire rack.
Don't have a steamer basket? A metal colander over a pot works a treat. And if you're not keen on deep frying, a large skillet will do just fine for pan-frying.
We're making a Crispy Chicken Sandwich , so whatever gets you there, yeah?
This Oyster Mushroom Recipe can also be a great alternative if you’re looking for something different! The versatility of Fried Oyster Mushrooms makes it a fantastic and healthy Vegan Comfort Food .
You can even try a Seitan Chicken Recipe if you're feeling adventurous! You know? Let’s get cooking.
Cooking Method: Nail That Crispy Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich!
Fancy sinking your teeth into a ridiculously tasty Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich ? Well, buckle up, buttercup, 'cause we're about to go on a culinary adventure! Forget limp lettuce wraps.
We're talking serious Vegan Comfort Food , the kind that makes you wanna slap your grandma... with high fives, of course! Trust me, this is not your average plant based sandwich .
It's a proper experience.
Prep Steps: Getting Our Ducks in a Row
Alright, before we dive into the deep fryer, a bit of mise en place is key. It's like getting your band ready before the gig, innit?
- Essential Mise en Place : Chop your lettuce, slice your toms (optional!), and have your sauce ingredients ready. Get all your breading bowls set up too.
- Time Saving Tips: Honestly, prepping the seitan the day before is a game changer. It saves loads of time when you're actually cooking.
- Safety Reminder: Hot oil is no joke! Keep a watchful eye and use tongs. Think of yourself as a fryer ninja!
step-by-step Process: Turning Seitan into Gold
Right, now for the fun part. Let's transform some humble seitan into a Vegan Fried Chicken Alternative that'll blow your socks off.
- Prep the Seitan: Combine the dry and wet ingredients to create a dough. Knead it a little. Don't go crazy, you don't want a rubbery Chicken Substitute .
- Shape and Steam: Divide the dough and make little "chicken" shapes. Steam for 30 minutes . You want them firm.
- Cool and Chill: Let them cool a bit, then chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight). Honestly, this is mega important.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together vegan mayo, relish, mustard, and hot sauce. This is where the magic happens!
- Bread the Seitan: Dip each fillet in plant based milk, then dredge in seasoned flour, pressing to adhere. Repeat for extra crunch!
- Fry the "Chicken": Heat oil to 350° F ( 175° C) . Fry for 3- 4 minutes per side. Golden and crispy is the goal.
- Assemble and Devour: Slap that Homemade Vegan Chicken on a toasted bun with sauce, lettuce, and whatever else you fancy.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Sandwich Game
Wanna take this Crispy Chicken Sandwich to the next level? I got you.
- Don't Over Knead: Seriously, a tough "chicken" is a sad "chicken."
- Double Breading: This is the secret to that incredible crunch. Don't skip it!
- Common Mistake: Overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches so the oil temp doesn't drop.
Honestly, even if you mess up a bit, it's still gonna be delicious. And that my friend, is the ultimate goal! I bet Fried Oyster Mushrooms will taste great too using this same method.
Recipe Notes for Your Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich
Honestly, this Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich is more than just a recipe. It's an adventure. But hey, even adventures need a few notes. Let's dive in!
Serving Up Style: Plating and Presentation
Alright, you've got this amazing Crispy Chicken Sandwich . But how do you make it look as good as it tastes? For me, it’s all about layering.
Think vibrant green lettuce, juicy red tomato slices (if you’re feeling fancy), and those gorgeous golden brown fillets.
I love serving mine on a wooden board with some crispy fries. It looks proper pub-grub, you know? And a big old pickle spear on the side? Chef's kiss! Also, don’t underestimate the power of a good brioche bun, lightly toasted of course.
Storage Secrets: Keeping it Fresh
So, you've made too much Homemade Vegan Chicken ? No worries, mate. Here's the deal:
- Fridge Rules : Keep your cooked seitan fillets in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
- Freezing Fun : You can freeze the cooked fillets! Wrap them individually in cling film, then pop them in a freezer bag. They'll last for about 2 months . Let them thaw fully before reheating.
- Reheating Rescue : Honestly, the best way to reheat is in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until they're crispy again. A quick zap in the microwave will work in a pinch, but they might lose some crispiness.
Playing with Flavours: Variations and Swaps
This Vegan Chicken Sandwich is super versatile! Fancy a change?
- Dietary Tweaks : Need a gluten-free version? Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Also, tamari instead of soy sauce. Easy peasy!
- Seasonal Swaps : Try different types of lettuce depending on the season. Rocket (arugula) in the summer for a peppery kick, or some crunchy romaine in the winter.
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness Inside
Let's be real, this is Vegan Comfort Food , but it’s not without its benefits. The Chicken Substitute is packed with protein, thanks to the seitan.
We're talking around 35g per serving! It’s also a good source of iron.
Of course, frying adds some fat, so enjoy in moderation. Think of it as a treat for your taste buds and your body.
So there you have it, my friend! Go on, get cooking, and create the Ultimate Crispy Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich . I know you'll nail it! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is making a Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich really worth the effort, or should I just grab a veggie burger?
Oh, absolutely worth it! Think of it like this: you wouldn't settle for a soggy biscuit when you could have a proper scone with clotted cream and jam, would you? This Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich isn't just any plant based option; it's a flavour explosion of crispy, savoury, and tangy goodness, unlike any veggie burger you've had.
My seitan always ends up a bit rubbery. Any tips for making the Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich more tender?
Ah, the dreaded rubbery seitan! The key is to avoid over kneading the dough. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, and only knead it briefly. Steaming the seitan rather than boiling it also helps maintain a better texture.
Finally, chilling the seitan after steaming is crucial, this helps firm it up without making it tough.
Can I make the seitan "chicken" ahead of time for this Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich, and how long will it last?
You certainly can! Making the seitan ahead is a great time saver. Once steamed and cooled, the seitan "chicken" fillets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can even freeze them for longer storage just make sure they're well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When ready to use, simply thaw and proceed with the breading and frying.
What if I don't have all the spices listed for the breading? Can I substitute anything?
No worries, bit of kitchen improvisation is always welcome! If you're missing some spices, feel free to adjust according to your taste. A little extra paprika will always add more flavour. You can add a dash of chilli powder for a bit more heat.
The most important thing is to have salt, pepper, and some kind of savoury element to complement the "chicken".
I'm trying to be healthy. Can I bake the breaded "chicken" instead of frying it for this Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich?
Absolutely, baking is a healthier alternative! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded seitan fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them generously with cooking oil spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
While it won't be quite as crispy as frying, it's a good way to reduce the fat content without sacrificing too much flavour.
Any recommendations for making this Vegan "Chicken" Sandwich gluten-free?
Yes, you can certainly make a gluten-free version. The most important substitution is to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the breading. Also, replace the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative.
Unfortunately, the seitan itself is made from vital wheat gluten, so you'll need to replace it with another base like portobello mushrooms or pressed tofu.
The Ultimate Crispy Vegan Chicken Sandwich

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |