Tasty Vegan KFC Fried Chicken Copycat
A delicious plant-based version of classic fried chicken that delivers crispy texture and savory flavors, perfect for gatherings and comfort meals.
Ingredients
For the Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free option.
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional, for added heat.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil For frying, enough to cover the chicken.
- 4 pieces Vegan chicken substitute Can use tofu, seitan, or tempeh.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture.
- If using seitan or tempeh, slice them into pieces that are easy to handle.
Coating
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using).
- Pour the plant-based milk into another bowl. Dip each piece of your vegan chicken substitute into the milk, ensuring a nice coating.
- After dipping in the milk, dredge each piece into the flour mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, add vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch and heat over medium-high heat until hot.
- Carefully place the coated pieces of chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to crowd the pan!
Final Steps
- Remove the fried chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite vegan sides.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as it can lower the oil temperature and prevent the coating from crisping up. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.