Vegan fried chicken? You bet! This crispy, juicy, and downright delicious recipe was inspired by the plant-based food innovations featured on the hit show Shark Tank. Forget what you thought you knew about vegan food; this dish will have even the most devoted meat-eaters asking for seconds.
The Rise of Vegan Fried Chicken on Shark Tank
Shark Tank, the show that’s ignited countless entrepreneurial dreams, has seen a surge in plant-based businesses, particularly those specializing in vegan alternatives to comfort food favorites. Vegan fried chicken, with its promise of crispy skin and juicy meat, has emerged as a frontrunner in this culinary revolution. From seitan to soy protein, entrepreneurs have showcased their innovative approaches to recreating this classic, demonstrating the incredible potential of plant-based cuisine.
The Secret to Crispy Vegan Fried Chicken: A Two-Step Process
The key to achieving that perfect crunch? A two-step breading process that ensures a shatteringly crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful interior.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- Oil for frying
Vegan fried chicken ingredients laid out on a table
Step-by-Step Guide to Vegan Fried Chicken:
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Knead and Rest: Gradually add the vegetable broth to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Shape the Chicken: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a chicken tender or cutlet.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, pour the plant-based milk.
- The Double Dip: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip it into the plant-based milk, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge it again in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Perfectly golden-brown vegan fried chicken fresh out of the fryer
Chef’s Tips for the Best Vegan Fried Chicken
Chef Anya Sharma, a renowned vegan chef, shares her expert tips:
“The key to incredibly flavorful vegan fried chicken lies in the seasoning. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend.”
“For an extra crispy coating, try using a combination of cornstarch and all-purpose flour. The cornstarch helps to create a lighter and crispier texture.”
Vegan Fried Chicken FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
While frying yields the crispiest results, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I serve with vegan fried chicken?
The possibilities are endless! Enjoy it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, or mac and cheese.
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
For best results, fry the chicken right before serving. However, you can bread the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 4 hours.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options for frying.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
From Shark Tank to Your Kitchen: Vegan Fried Chicken Success
This Shark Tank-inspired recipe proves that vegan food can be just as indulgent and satisfying as its traditional counterparts. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and bold flavors, this vegan fried chicken is sure to become a household favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, embrace your inner entrepreneur, and get ready to create a plant-based culinary masterpiece.
