There’s a certain magic that happens when you find a recipe that not only satisfies your cravings but also aligns with your plant-based lifestyle. That was the feeling I had when I first whipped up these Ultimate Vegan Chicken Patties. Imagine a dish that captures the savory essence of traditional chicken while being entirely meatless and bursting with protein!
After a week of fast food takeout weariness, I craved something that felt hearty yet nutritious. So, I dove into my pantry and ended up creating a versatile chicken alternative that can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. The result? Patties that are not just delicious but also delightfully easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a weekend cookout. Let’s transform your dining experience and discover how to make the best vegan chicken recipe that you and your family will love!
Why is The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe perfect for you?
Simplicity at its finest: With straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these patties in no time.
Flavor-packed goodness: The blend of chickpeas and spices mimics traditional chicken in every bite.
Versatile cooking methods: Grill, bake, or pan-fry—choose your favorite way to enjoy them!
High-protein satisfaction: Each patty is packed with 12g of protein, making it an excellent meat alternative.
Crowd-pleaser potential: Impress family and friends with a dish that caters to various dietary needs.
Don’t forget to check out our serving suggestions to elevate your meal even more!
The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Patties
- Vital Wheat Gluten – Forms the base of these patties, giving them that chewy texture. Substitute with another type of gluten if needed.
- Chickpeas – Provides creaminess and a protein boost; can be replaced with white beans for another twist.
- Nutritional Yeast – Delivers a delicious umami flavor that mimics savory chicken; use regular yeast in emergencies, but flavor will vary.
- Onion Powder – Adds a layer of savory depth; fresh onions can also be used for a different taste.
- Garlic Powder – Brings aromatic goodness; feel free to swap in fresh garlic for a more vibrant flavor.
- Poultry Seasoning – Infuses the patties with a chicken-like essence; thyme or sage can be used for a different herbal note.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; opt for low-sodium salt if you’re watching your intake.
- Chicken-Flavored Vegetable Broth – Keeps the patties moist while adding flavor; regular vegetable broth works just as well.
- Olive Oil – Adds a rich finish; any neutral oil can be used in its place.
Get ready to indulge in the best vegan chicken recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
How to Make The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe
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Prepare Chickpeas: Mash the chickpeas thoroughly in a bowl using a fork or potato masher until you achieve a creamy consistency. This step is crucial for the texture of your patties.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, the mashed chickpeas, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed, ensuring all flavors blend perfectly.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the chicken-flavored vegetable broth and olive oil, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. The mixture should be slightly sticky but manageable to work with.
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Knead Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle it with additional vital wheat gluten. Knead the dough gently for about 30 seconds until it becomes smooth and elastic; avoid over-kneading to keep the texture just right.
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Shape Patties: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Aim for about ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking when you grill, bake, or fry them.
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Steam: Wrap each patty in foil and place them carefully in a steamer basket. Steam for 30-40 minutes until they firm up; they should maintain their shape but remain moist.
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Cook: Prepare the patties by grilling, baking at 375°F for about 20 minutes, or pan-frying until golden brown. Add any preferred seasoning during cooking for an extra flavor kick.
Optional: For an extra crunch, pan-fry in a bit of oil until crispy.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate Vegan Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough for the best vegan chicken recipe up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps—mashing the chickpeas, mixing the dry and wet ingredients, and shaping the patties. Once shaped, simply wrap the patties in foil and refrigerate them, which keeps them fresh and flavorful. To maintain quality, avoid cooking until you’re ready to serve; just steam and grill, bake, or fry when you’re set to enjoy! This method saves you time on busy weeknights while delivering delicious, homemade vegan chicken that’s just as satisfying as if made on the spot.
Tips for the Best Vegan Chicken
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Avoid Over-Kneading: Knead the dough for only about 30 seconds. Overworking it can lead to a spongy texture rather than a nice chewy one.
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Steamer Alternative: If you don’t have a steamer basket, simply place the wrapped patties in a covered baking dish with water and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes.
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Storage Solutions: Refrigerate any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 6 months to enjoy later.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to enhance the flavor! Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique variations you’ll love baked or grilled.
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Perfect Patty Thickness: Shape patties about ½ inch thick for optimal cooking. This size ensures they cook through evenly while retaining moisture.
Enjoy preparing the best vegan chicken recipe that brings hearty satisfaction to your plate!
Storage Tips for The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe
- Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh for quick meals or snacks throughout the week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 6 months without losing flavor.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen patties directly from the freezer by baking at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or pan-fry them until heated through to enjoy their chewy texture once again.
- Thawing: If you prefer to thaw, place frozen patties in the fridge overnight before reheating, allowing for even heating and maintaining their deliciousness.
What to Serve with The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful patties with sides and flavors that complement their savory goodness.
- Creamy Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad made with ripe avocados and crisp vegetables pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish with creaminess and coolness.
- Garlic Mash Potatoes: These buttery mashed potatoes are incredibly comforting and smooth, making them a satisfying base that balances the textured patties. Imagine the richness melting together!
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with colorful veggies provides a wholesome grain alternative, adding a nutty flavor and additional nutrients to your meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These hearty, caramelized sprouts add a perfect crunch, bringing out the earthiness that complements the savory flavor of the patties.
- Zesty Slaw: A crisp slaw with a tangy dressing can cut through the richness of the patties, refreshing the palate with every bite and adding a delightful crunch.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries contrast well with the vegan chicken, offering a satisfying, bite-sized side that’s hard to resist.
- Lemon Garlic Hummus: Serve your patties with a side of homemade hummus for dipping; its creamy texture and zesty flavor perfectly enhance the dish.
- Homemade Vegan Coleslaw: With its crunchy veggies and creamy dressing, coleslaw makes a great side, balancing flavor profiles while adding a refreshing twist.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Enjoy a bubbly, refreshing drink to cleanse your palate between bites, making the whole meal feel light and vibrant.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this decadent, creamy mousse brings a perfect ending, showcasing the versatility of avocados in a sweet treat.
Each pairing complements the best vegan chicken recipe beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying meal experience that you’ll adore!
The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delicious vegan chicken recipe just the way you like it!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to bring heat, perfect for spicy food lovers.
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Herb-Infused: Swap in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant twist. These herbs add freshness and complexity to the patties.
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Cheesy Flavor: Mix in 1/4 cup of vegan grated cheese before shaping the patties for a rich and creamy finish. It’s a perfect addition for cheese enthusiasts.
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Vegetable Boost: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrition and flavor in every bite, making them even heartier.
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Lentil Blend: Replace chickpeas with cooked lentils for a different texture and flavor profile that’s equally satisfying and protein-rich.
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Smoky Essence: Introduce a couple of teaspoons of smoked paprika for a barbecue-inspired flavor that transports you to summer grill nights.
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Coconut Twist: Substitute half the broth with coconut milk for a subtle sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with spices.
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Nutty Crunch: Add in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or seeds to enhance the texture and add a satisfying crunch to your patties, making them even more delicious!
The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe Recipe FAQs
What type of chickpeas should I use for the patties?
You can use canned chickpeas for convenience—just rinse and drain them well. However, if you have dried chickpeas, soak and cook them until soft, then mash them for a delightful texture. Both options will add creaminess and protein to your patties!
How long can I store the cooked patties in the fridge?
Absolutely! Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows you to enjoy quick, nutritious meals without the fuss; just reheat and serve whenever cravings hit!
Can I freeze the vegan chicken patties? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can freeze them! Start by placing the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 6 months. This ensures they retain their flavor and texture, making future meals so easy!
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What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough is sticking, simply sprinkle in a little extra vital wheat gluten and knead it for about 30 seconds until it becomes manageable. The added gluten will help firm up the mixture, ensuring the perfect patty consistency without losing flavor.
Are these patties suitable for those with gluten sensitivities?
Unfortunately, these patties are not gluten-free due to the use of vital wheat gluten. However, you could try substituting with a suitable gluten-free flour blend to create a modified version. While the texture may differ, the flavor will still be delightful, making it a fun experiment!
Can I cook these patties in advance for meal prep?
Certainly! These patties are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and cook them. Store your cooked patties in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for later use. Just reheat them as needed for a quick, satisfying meal!
The Best Vegan Chicken Recipe: Tasty, Easy, and High-Protein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mash the chickpeas thoroughly in a bowl using a fork or potato masher until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- In a medium bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, the mashed chickpeas, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Pour in the chicken-flavored vegetable broth and olive oil, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle it with additional vital wheat gluten. Knead the dough gently for about 30 seconds until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty, about ½ inch thick.
- Wrap each patty in foil and place them carefully in a steamer basket. Steam for 30-40 minutes.
- Prepare the patties by grilling, baking at 375°F for about 20 minutes, or pan-frying until golden brown.