Name: Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups soy curls or 1 block extra-firm tofu (pressed and torn); 1 cup vegetable broth (for soaking, if using soy curls); 1 cup unsweetened plant milk; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon ground white pepper; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Vegetable oil (for deep or shallow frying)

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Get ready to fall in love with a dish that brings together all the flavors and textures you crave in a classic fried chicken, but without any animal products! This Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy that iconic crispy, golden crust with juicy, tender insides. Made with soy curls or tofu and seasoned with a bold blend of herbs and spices, it’s the perfect plant-based twist on a beloved comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four panels arranged in a grid, each displaying a step in making fried chicken drumsticks. In the first panel, four raw chicken drumsticks with pale pink skin are placed in a clear glass bowl. The second panel shows a white glass bowl filled with light beige flour topped with small piles of colorful spices, including red, green, and yellow powders arranged neatly. The third panel features a single raw chicken drumstick coated in the flour and spice mix, resting on the white flour inside a clear glass bowl. The fourth panel presents four golden-brown fried chicken drumsticks with a crunchy texture, arranged on a white plate and garnished with a small green herb leaf, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from building the crispy texture to delivering that unmistakable savory flavor. The combination is simple but incredibly effective, ensuring your vegan fried chicken is bursting with taste and crunch.

Soy curls or extra-firm tofu: These plant-based proteins provide the perfect juicy, meaty texture needed for the “chicken” base.
Vegetable broth: For soaking soy curls, it adds moisture and deepens flavor.
Unsweetened plant milk: Acts as the wet batter base, helping the coating stick.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that mimics buttermilk’s tenderizing effect.
Hot sauce: Brings a slight kick that livens the flavor profile.
Salt: A simple but crucial seasoning enhancing all other flavors.
All-purpose flour and cornstarch: These combine for that signature crispy, crunchy coating.
Seasoning blend (paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, white pepper, black pepper, chili powder): This secret mix gives the recipe its unmistakable KFC-inspired spice and aroma.
Vegetable oil: For frying, providing even heat and that golden finish.

How to Make Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Plant-Based Protein

If you’re using soy curls, start by soaking them in hot vegetable broth for about 10 minutes to rehydrate and infuse flavor. Once softened, gently squeeze out any excess liquid so your coating will stick beautifully. If tofu is your choice, press it firmly to drain moisture, then tear it into irregular “chicken-like” pieces that soak up the batter wonderfully.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Batter

In a bowl, whisk together unsweetened plant milk, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and salt. This mixture mimics the tanginess and moisture of traditional buttermilk batter, helping the seasoned flour coat the pieces perfectly and develop that crave-worthy crunch.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Coating

Combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and the carefully crafted seasoning blend in a large bowl. This blend is the heart of the flavor, infusing every bite with paprika, garlic, onion, herbs, and a bit of heat — the secret to making your Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe feel authentic and exciting.

Step 4: Coat the Pieces

Dip each piece of soy curl or tofu into the wet batter, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crunch that rivals the original, dip the pieces once more into the wet batter and give them a second coating of the flour mix. This double-dip method ensures an irresistible crispy crust.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep or shallow pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated pieces in batches, carefully turning them every couple of minutes until they develop a deep golden color and satisfyingly crispy exterior — about 4 to 6 minutes. Once done, transfer the fried chicken onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and keep the coating crisp.

How to Serve Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe

A white plate with a blue rim holds several pieces of golden brown fried chicken with a crunchy texture. The chicken pieces are stacked in the middle of the plate, showing uneven, crispy coating with small cracks revealing the moist meat inside. Around the plate, on a white marbled surface, there is a small white bowl filled with red sauce and some scattered pieces of chicken skin. A woman’s hand with a shiny fork and knife wrapped in a striped napkin is visible near the bottom left corner. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the crunchy texture of the chicken. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika brightens up the rich flavors and adds a pop of color. You can also serve with lemon wedges for a burst of fresh acidity that cuts through the crispy, savory goodness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This vegan fried chicken pairs flawlessly with traditional southern sides like coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or crispy seasoned fries. For lighter options, try a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans — the contrast makes the meal more balanced but keeps the homey soul food vibe alive.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your serving style up a notch by turning the Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe into sliders with vegan mayo, pickles, and lettuce on mini buns. You can also make a delightful vegan chicken salad sandwich or toss pieces into a hearty vegan gravy for a comforting “fried chicken and biscuits” dinner experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover vegan fried chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pieces completely before storing so they stay crisp when reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Freezing helps you keep that plant-based comfort food ready for busy days without sacrificing texture or taste.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, reheat frozen or refrigerated pieces in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use other plant-based proteins instead of soy curls or tofu?

Absolutely! Seitan or tempeh can also work well as the base for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust soaking and pressing times as needed to get the right texture and moisture level for a crispy coating.

Is it possible to bake the Vegan KFC Fried Chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative for a healthier version. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure an even, crispy crust.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I omit the hot sauce?

You can definitely skip the hot sauce or reduce the amount. It’s there to add a gentle kick, but the recipe still has plenty of flavor from the herbs and spices without it.

How do I make sure the coating sticks well?

Double-dipping the pieces into wet and dry mixtures is key. Also, pressing the protein gently after coating helps seal the crust and maintain that satisfying crunch after frying.

Can this recipe be adapted for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Make sure to check that your plant-based protein source is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan KFC Fried Chicken: Crispy Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe is an absolute delight, bringing nostalgic flavors and textures to a plant-based plate. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just curious to try a comforting alternative, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a go and savor every crunchy, juicy bite—you might just forget it’s vegan!