Vegan Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate plant-based comfort food with these Vegan Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders! Made from extra-firm tofu, these golden, crunchy delights are the perfect meat-free alternative to classic fried chicken. The tofu is pressed to perfection, seasoned with a flavorful blend of nutritional yeast, paprika, garlic powder, and herbs, then coated in a vegan buttermilk batter and fried to crispy, golden-brown perfection. Perfect for dipping or pairing with fries and a crisp salad, these tenders are a satisfying treat for vegans and non-vegans alike. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dairy-free, egg-free recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day snacks. Try these tofu tenders for a fun and crispy twist on plant-based cooking!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 16 oz extra-firm tofu
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme
• 0.5 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by placing it between paper towels and resting a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2

In a shallow bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar to create a vegan buttermilk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3

In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Cut the pressed tofu into strips resembling chicken tenders.

Step 5

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 6

Dip each tofu strip into the vegan buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture.

Step 7

Carefully place the coated tofu strips in the hot oil. Fry them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Step 8

Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9

Remove the fried tofu tenders from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 10

Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce or accompanied by sides like fries or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1336.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4905.3

Total Fat 458.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 65.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 268.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2601.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 151.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.8g	0%
Total Sugars 3.6g
Protein 91.8g	0%

Vitamin D 100.0IU	0%
Calcium 3454.8mg	0%
Iron 21.1mg	0%
Potassium 1892.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 80.9%

Protein: 7.2%

Carbs: 11.9%