Vegan chicken patties Recipe, crafted with a blend of plant-based proteins, offer a delicious alternative to traditional meat products. Their golden, crispy exterior encases a tender, flavorful interior, mimicking chicken’s classic taste and texture. Ideal for sandwiches or standalone meals, these patties provide a nutritious, eco-friendly option for those seeking a meatless yet satisfying culinary experience.
Why Does It Work?
- The perfect blend of herbs and spices achieves a savory, chicken-like flavor.
- Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, mimicking traditional patties.
- Quick and easy to prepare, it is ideal for busy schedules.
- Supports a sustainable diet without compromising on taste or texture.
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What Are Vegan Chicken Patties?
Vegan chicken patties are a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken patties, designed to mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of chicken without using any animal products. They are typically made from various ingredients such as soy, wheat gluten (seitan), peas, or other legumes, combined with herbs, spices, and vegetable oils to achieve a savory flavor.
These patties offer a high-protein, environmentally friendly option for those looking to reduce meat consumption or follow a vegan diet while still enjoying the familiar pleasures of a classic chicken patty.
Fact– Vegan chicken patties can save over 500 gallons of water per patty compared to their meat counterparts, showcasing their significant environmental benefits.
Recipe Directions
- Make the Dough: In a food processor, blend chickpeas, broth, nutritional yeast, oil, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in 1 cup of wheat gluten. Add the remaining 1/3 cup and knead into a firm dough. Let it rest in the fridge, covered, for 1-24 hours for a stringier texture.
- Prep for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large cookie sheet with oil. In a shallow bowl, mix bread crumbs, flour, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, herbs, and salt. Add vegan milk to another bowl.
- Bread the Patties: Divide the dough into 6 pieces and shape each. Dip each patty in vegan milk and then in the breading mixture. Ensure a good coat, and place on the oiled sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 16-18 minutes. Flip each patty and bake for another 16-18 minutes until golden brown.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Spicy Patties: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dough mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Patties: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill into the dough for freshness.
- Mushroom Blend Patties: Mix finely chopped mushrooms with the chickpeas for added texture and umami flavor.
- Cheese-stuffed patties: Form the dough around a small cube of vegan cheese before breading for a gooey center.
Add-Ons
- Sautéed Onions and Peppers: Sauté your favorite veggies and pile them on top of your patty in a bun.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and complements the savory flavors of the patty.
- Crispy Lettuce and Fresh Tomato: Add crispy lettuce and a slice of tomato to your burger for a classic touch.
- Pickles: Add pickles for a tangy crunch in every bite.
Toppings
- Vegan Mayo and Mustard: Spread your bun with vegan mayo, mustard, or both for added moisture and flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce can add a rich, tangy layer to your patty.
- Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For those who like it hot, drizzle your patty with your favorite spicy sauce.
- Homemade Slaw: Top your patty with a tangy slaw for a refreshing crunch.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Mushrooms: Their meaty texture makes them perfect for adding bulk and umami.
- Zucchini: Grated, it adds moisture and a subtle sweetness.
- Cauliflower: Finely chopped, it blends seamlessly into patties for a neutral base.
- Spinach: Finely chopped, it introduces a vibrant color and boosts nutrients.
- Sweet Potatoes: Mashed or grated, they add sweetness and a tender texture.
- Beets: Grated, they offer an earthy flavor and a meat-like color.
- Chickpeas: Apart from the base, additional whole or slightly mashed chickpeas add texture and protein.
- Broccoli: Finely chopped, it adds crunch and nutrients without overpowering the flavor.
Quick Tip– For extra flavor and juiciness in your vegan chicken patties, try marinating the formed patties in your favorite vegan broth for 30 minutes before breading and baking.
Best Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries A sweet and savory side that complements the savory notes of the patties.
- Quinoa Salad Light and nutritious, adding a wholesome balance.
- Steamed Green Beans A simple, healthy touch that pairs well with the richness of the patties.
- Coleslaw Adds a crunchy, creamy contrast to the patties’ texture.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts Their caramelized edges offer a delightful flavor contrast.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad Brings freshness and a creamy texture, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
- Cucumber Dill Salad Offers a refreshing and light side that cleanses the palate.
- Baked Sweet Corn Sweetness complements the savory profile of the vegan patties.
- Homemade Vegan Gravy Perfect for drizzling over the patties for added moisture and flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and flavorful, they pair nicely with the patties.
How To Serve?
- Classic Burger Style: Place a vegan chicken patty on a toasted vegan bun, add lettuce, tomato, vegan cheese, and condiments like ketchup or vegan mayo.
- Wrap: Tuck a patty into a large lettuce leaf or a whole wheat wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
- Salad Topper: Slice the patty and lay it atop a mixed green salad, complete with nuts, seeds, and a light vinaigrette.
- With Dips: Serve the patties cut into strips alongside various dips, such as barbecue sauce, vegan honey mustard, or spicy vegan mayo.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Place a patty on an English muffin with avocado, spinach, and a slice of tomato for a hearty vegan breakfast.
- Asian-Inspired Tacos: Use soft corn tortillas and top the patties with coleslaw, cilantro, and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a fusion twist.
- Mediterranean Plate: Accompany the patty with hummus, tabbouleh, olives, and warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Pasta Partner: Slice the patties and mix them into your favorite pasta dish, such as spaghetti with marinara sauce or a creamy vegan Alfredo.
- Picnic Platter: Serve them cold on a platter with pickles, vegan cheese slices, and crackers for a picnic or party appetizer.
- Loaded Vegan Baked Potato: For a filling meal, top a baked potato with a chopped patty, steamed broccoli, vegan sour cream, and chives.
Quick Tip– For a crispier crust on your vegan chicken patties, lightly spray them with cooking oil before baking. This ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Refrigeration: Store cooked vegan chicken patties in an airtight container; they remain fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or on a skillet until warm and crispy.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and form the patties in advance. Refrigerate them, covered, until ready to bread and bake. This step allows flavors to meld, saving valuable prep time on busy days.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Measure out spices, chop any additional veggies, and have your breading station ready before making the dough.
- Use a Food Processor: To prepare the dough, blend the chickpeas and wet ingredients in a food processor to save time and ensure a smooth mixture.
- Make in Bulk: Double or triple the recipe and freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper. When needed, they can go straight from the freezer to the oven.
- Pre-Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the vital wheat gluten and spices in a large container. When you’re ready to make patties, just measure the needed amount.
- Breading Station Efficiency: Set up a conveyor-like system for the wet and dry breading steps to minimize mess and streamline the coating process.
- Bake Multiple Trays: If your oven has the space, bake more than one tray of patties at a time, rotating them halfway through for even cooking.
- Use Pre-Made Breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs for the breading. You can season them further if desired.
- Cleanup As You Go: Wash tools and dishes while your patties are baking to reduce the overall time spent in the kitchen.
Healthy And Hearty Vegan Chicken Patties Recipe You Need To Try
Vegan chicken patties are a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional chicken, offering a perfect blend of texture and flavor. Made with chickpeas, vital wheat gluten, and spices, they mimic the taste and feel of chicken without animal products. They are ideal for burgers, wraps, or salads, but they provide a versatile and nutritious option for any meal.
6
patties15
minutes35
minutes220
kcal1
hoursKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredient List
1 1/2 Cups 1 1/2 Chickpeas (or white beans or firm-pressed tofu)
1 Cup 1 Not chick’n broth (or other vegan chicken-style broth)
2 Tbsp 2 Nutritional yeast (optional for the chicken)
2 Tbsp 2 Neutral-flavored oil (for the chicken)
1 1/2 Tsp 1 1/2 Poultry seasoning (for the chicken)
1 1/4 Tsp 1 1/4 Salt (for the chicken)
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Onion powder
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Garlic powder
1 1/3 Cup 1 1/3 Vital wheat gluten
1/2 Cup 1/2 Panko bread crumbs (or crumbled crackers, vegan stuffing, or cornflakes)
1/4 Cup 1/4 Flour
1 Tbsp 1 Corn starch
1 Tbsp 1 Nutritional yeast (optional for the coating)
2 Tsp 2 Poultry seasoning (or other dry herbs of choice for the coating)
1/2 Tsp 1/2 Salt (for the coating)
1/2 Cup 1/2 Plant-based milk or aquafaba
3 Tbsp 3 Neutral-flavored oil (to oil the cookie sheet)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Make The Dough
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine a can of drained chickpeas with broth, nutritional yeast, oil, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Mix with Wheat Gluten: Transfer the blend to a glass mixing bowl. Stir in 1 cup of the vital wheat gluten. Add the remaining 1/3 cup of wheat gluten and knead with your hands for about 1 minute until a firm dough forms. *Reminder: Do not consume raw.
- Rest for Texture: For a stringier “chicken” texture, cover and let the dough rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
- Make The Breading
- Prep for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 3 tablespoons of neutral-flavored oil on a large cookie sheet to cover the bottom completely; set aside.
- Combine Breading Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, flour, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, herbs, and salt.
- Prepare Wet Dip: Pour vegan milk (or aquafaba) into another shallow bowl. This will be used to wet the dough so the breading sticks.
- Bake The Patties
- Form Patties: Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Shape each piece with your hands into patties.
- Bread Patties: Dip each patty in the vegan milk, then coat thoroughly in the breading mixture. Ensure the dough is well covered.
- Bake: Place the breaded patties on the prepared cookie sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 16-18 minutes. Then, remove from the oven, flip each patty, and return them to the oven for another 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Equipment List
- Food Processor or Blender
- Glass Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Large Cookie Sheet
- Oven
- Shallow Bowls (for breading)
- Spatula
- Baking Paper (optional for easier cleanup)
- Kitchen Knife
- Cutting Board
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute vital wheat gluten with a mix of chickpea flour and rice flour, adjusting liquid quantities as needed.
Enhance flavor with additional spices like smoked paprika or cumin in the dough.
Breading can also include crushed nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Cooking times may vary based on oven performance; adjust accordingly.
Patties can be frozen after shaping and breaded just before baking.
Serve with a side of green salad or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Vegan Chicken Patties Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to be gluten-free by substituting vital wheat gluten with a combination of gluten-free flour, such as chickpea flour and rice flour. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different from the original recipe.
Adjust liquid quantities as needed to achieve the right dough consistency. It’s also important to ensure that all other ingredients, including breadcrumbs for the coating, are gluten-free.
How Can I Store Leftover Vegan Chicken Patties, And How Long Will They Last?
Leftover vegan chicken patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the patties on a baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake or fry until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Are These Vegan Chicken Patties Healthy?
These vegan chicken patties are a healthier alternative to traditional meat patties. They offer high protein from vital wheat gluten and chickpeas without the saturated fats found in animal products.
They also include various vitamins and minerals from nutritional yeast and other ingredients. However, like all foods, they should be consumed as a balanced diet.
Can I Fry These Patties Instead Of Baking Them?
Yes, you can fry the patties if you prefer a crispier exterior. Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat to fry. Once hot, add the breaded patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when a patty is added but not so hot that it burns the coating.
What Can I Serve With Vegan Chicken Patties?
Vegan chicken patties are versatile and can be served in many ways. Popular options include placing them in a burger bun with your favorite toppings, slicing them onto salads, or serving them with a side of sweet potato fries, steamed vegetables, or a quinoa salad. They also pair well with dipping sauces like vegan mayo, ketchup, or a homemade spicy sauce.
