Craving Chick-fil-A nuggets but want a plant-based version? These Vegan Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory, juicy flavor! With a perfectly seasoned batter and a touch of pickle brine for authenticity, this recipe will satisfy your fast-food cravings—minus the meat! 🍗✨
🌱 Vegan Chick-fil-A Style Nuggets
🥢 Ingredients
For the “Chicken” Base:
✅ 1 block extra-firm tofu (pressed and torn into nugget-sized chunks)
✅ ½ cup pickle juice (for marinating, optional but recommended!)
For the Batter:
✅ 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (soy or almond works best)
✅ 1 tbsp pickle juice
✅ 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
✅ 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
For the Breading:
✅ 1 cup all-purpose flour
✅ ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
✅ 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (adds umami flavor)
✅ 1 tsp paprika
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ 1 tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ 1 tsp poultry seasoning (or a mix of sage, thyme, and oregano)
For Frying:
✅ Vegetable oil (for deep frying or air-frying alternative)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Tofu Nuggets
- Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Tear into nugget-sized chunks for a more realistic texture.
- Marinate in pickle juice for 30 minutes for that signature Chick-fil-A flavor (optional but recommended!).
2️⃣ Make the Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together plant milk, pickle juice, hot sauce, and Dijon mustard until combined.
3️⃣ Coat the Nuggets
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, and all seasonings.
- Dip each tofu piece into the wet batter, then coat evenly in the dry breading mixture.
- Repeat the process for an extra crispy coating!
4️⃣ Fry Until Crispy
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry tofu nuggets for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Air-Fryer Alternative:
- Spray nuggets with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot with vegan Chick-fil-A sauce, BBQ, or ranch.
- Enjoy with waffle fries for the full experience! 🍟
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✔️ Pair with vegan waffle fries & coleslaw
✔️ Serve with Chick-fil-A style dipping sauce
✔️ Add to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for extra protein
🌱 Why Make These Nuggets?
✅ Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor
✅ Easy to make & healthier than fast food
✅ 100% plant-based & high in protein
✅ No weird ingredients—just real, whole foods!
📩 Want More Vegan Fast Food Copycat Recipes?
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