Unforgettable Crispy Vegan Fried Chicken: The Ultimate Oyster Mushroom Recipe
If you’ve been longing for the satisfying crunch and savory flavor of classic fried chicken but follow a plant-based diet, your search ends here! This incredible vegan fried chicken recipe is specifically crafted to deliver that authentic, craveable experience. Our star ingredient? Tender, flavorful oyster mushrooms. These fantastic fungi provide a remarkably meaty texture and a delightful umami depth, perfectly complementing the irresistibly seasoned, golden-brown fried exterior that will have everyone reaching for more.
Most enthusiasts agree that the magic of truly great fried chicken lies in its exquisitely crispy coating. This oyster mushroom vegan fried chicken recipe not only understands this but absolutely delivers on that promise! We embrace a traditional shallow-fry method to achieve that desirable authentic crispiness, and our carefully curated blend of spices creates a flavor profile so spot-on, you might genuinely forget you’re enjoying a plant-based alternative. It’s a testament to how incredible vegan cooking can be.
Beyond that gloriously crispy shell, you’ll discover the surprisingly tender and juicy interior of oyster mushrooms. When prepared correctly, these mushrooms mimic the appearance and mouthfeel of white meat chicken with remarkable accuracy, making them an ideal whole-food, plant-based swap. This clever substitution ensures a dish that is not only satisfying for vegans but also incredibly appealing to meat-eaters, often surprising them with its deliciousness. Get ready for a comfort food experience that truly transcends dietary preferences!
Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Fried Chicken Recipe
This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary revelation that will redefine your perception of plant-based comfort food. Here are compelling reasons why this oyster mushroom fried chicken will quickly become a favorite:
- No Processed Meat Substitutes: For those who prefer to steer clear of highly processed mock meats, this recipe is a game-changer. We champion the humble oyster mushroom as a whole-food alternative, delivering a naturally meaty texture and rich flavor without relying on store-bought faux chicken products. It’s a cleaner, more natural approach to plant-based fried chicken that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.
- Infinitely Customizable Spices: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While we provide a perfectly balanced seasoning blend, feel free to unleash your inner chef! Adjust the ratios of spices to suit your palate, or experiment with additional herbs like dried thyme, rosemary, or a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Want more heat? Amp up the cayenne. Craving a different regional twist? Try adding a pinch of celery salt or white pepper. The possibilities are endless to create your truly personalized, flavorful vegan fried chicken.
- Fried to Golden-Brown Perfection: There’s no denying the unparalleled joy of a perfectly fried crust. This recipe utilizes a shallow-fry method, meticulously developed to ensure each piece of vegan fried chicken achieves a delightfully crispy exterior while retaining a tender, succulent interior. Much like the best homemade falafel or fluffy vegan donuts, some dishes simply shine brightest when fried, and this plant-based fried chicken is undoubtedly one of them. The oil temperature and cooking time are crucial for achieving that irresistible crispness.
- Incredibly Versatile for Any Meal: This isn’t just a standalone dish; it’s a versatile component that can elevate a variety of meals. Pile these crispy fried mushrooms into soft buns with your favorite toppings for an epic vegan fried chicken sandwich. Wrap them up with fresh veggies and a zesty sauce for a quick and satisfying lunch. Serve them as a hearty entree alongside classic Southern sides to satisfy that deep-seated comfort food craving. They even make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, disappearing quickly from the platter!
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Fried Chicken
Crafting the perfect plant-based fried chicken starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for sourcing them. Remember to scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card below for exact quantities and detailed instructions.
- Oyster Mushrooms: These are the cornerstone of our vegan fried chicken. Oyster mushrooms boast a uniquely fibrous and meaty texture that beautifully mimics chicken once cooked and fried. Their mild, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor also absorbs seasonings wonderfully. You can typically find them in the produce section of most well-stocked grocery stores, but for a potentially better price and larger variety, check out local Asian markets. When choosing, look for firm, unblemished clusters.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: This forms the base of our “vegan buttermilk.” It’s crucial that you use unflavored and unsweetened almond milk to avoid any unwanted sweetness or artificial flavors in your savory dish. Other unsweetened plant milks like soy milk can also work, but almond milk tends to be lighter.
- Lemon Juice: When combined with almond milk, lemon juice works its magic to curdle the milk, creating a tangy and rich “vegan buttermilk.” This buttermilk acts as an excellent marinade, tenderizing the mushrooms and helping the seasoned flour coating adhere perfectly. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for the brightest flavor.
- Coconut Sugar: A small amount of coconut sugar in the buttermilk marinade helps to balance the flavors, adding a subtle sweetness that mirrors the complexity often found in traditional fried chicken recipes. It also aids in achieving that beautiful golden-brown color during frying. Don’t worry, it won’t make your chicken sweet!
- Hot Sauce: (Optional) If you enjoy a kick of heat in your fried chicken, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade will infuse a delicious, spicy undertone throughout the mushrooms. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
The Irresistible Crispy Coating:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the primary component of our dredge, providing the structure for the crispy crust. To make this vegan fried chicken recipe gluten-free, simply substitute an equal measure of a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for blends that specifically state they are suitable for a 1:1 substitution in baking and frying.
- Cornstarch: A secret weapon for ultimate crispiness! Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture helps to create a lighter, crispier coating that stays crunchy longer. It also contributes to that desirable golden-brown finish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that form the base of our savory flavor profile. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best aroma and taste.
- Seasonings: This is where the magic happens! Our blend includes classic Southern-inspired spices:
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle, savory onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
- Garlic Powder: Provides a foundational aromatic depth that is essential for a classic fried chicken taste.
- Cayenne Pepper: Contributes a pleasant warmth and a hint of spiciness, elevating the overall flavor without being overwhelmingly hot (unless you add more!).
- (Original recipe also lists Paprika in the recipe card – ensure this is consistent) Paprika: Essential for color and a mild, sweet peppery note. For a smoky twist, consider smoked paprika.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, you’ll need an oil with a high smoke point. Good choices include conventional vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or rice bran oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying without breaking down or imparting off-flavors. Ensure you have enough to achieve a depth of about 2 inches in your saucepan.
Can I Substitute Other Mushroom Varieties for Vegan Fried Chicken?
While oyster mushrooms are truly ideal for their uncanny ability to mimic chicken’s texture and absorb flavors, you can certainly experiment with other mushroom varieties if oyster mushrooms aren’t readily available or if you simply want to try something different. Varieties like shiitake mushrooms (especially larger ones) or king trumpet mushrooms are excellent alternatives. King trumpet mushrooms, for example, are incredibly versatile and are often used in recipes like my vegan birria tacos for their robust, meaty quality.
However, it’s important to understand that the texture and flavor of your plant-based fried chicken may vary slightly depending on the mushroom you choose. While the end result will undoubtedly be delicious with any mushroom, oyster mushrooms will consistently provide the closest approximation to the traditional fried chicken experience you’re likely craving.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting the Perfect Vegan Fried Chicken
Making crispy vegan fried chicken from scratch might seem intimidating, but with these clear steps and helpful tips, you’ll be frying up deliciousness in no time! Preparation is key to ensuring a tender interior and a perfectly crunchy coating.
- Prepare Your Mushrooms: Begin by gently cleaning the oyster mushrooms. Avoid washing them under running water, as they can absorb too much moisture and become soggy. Instead, use a dry or slightly damp paper towel to wipe away any visible dirt or debris. Handle them with care to keep their natural shape and texture intact.
- Create the Crispy Coating: In a spacious bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry ingredients together. This ensures that every bite of your vegan fried chicken will be evenly seasoned and flavorful.
- Mix the Vegan Buttermilk: In a liquid measuring cup or a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk and fresh lemon juice. Allow this mixture to sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes. During this time, the lemon juice will curdle the almond milk, creating a thick, tangy vegan buttermilk that is essential for both flavor and coating adhesion.
- Marinate the Mushrooms: Once your vegan buttermilk has thickened slightly, whisk in the coconut sugar and the optional hot sauce. Pour this flavorful buttermilk mixture into a large bowl with your cleaned oyster mushrooms. Gently toss the mushrooms to ensure they are fully coated. Let them soak in this marinade for at least 10 minutes (or longer if you have time, up to 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor absorption). This step tenderizes the mushrooms and prepares them to hold onto the flour coating beautifully.
- Dredge for Crispy Perfection: One by one, remove each marinated mushroom from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Immediately dip it into the seasoned flour mixture. Ensure each mushroom is thoroughly and evenly coated, pressing the flour gently onto the surface to help it adhere. A thick, complete coating is vital for maximum crispiness and flavor in your plant-based fried chicken.
- Heat the Frying Oil: Pour your chosen vegetable oil into a medium-sized saucepan or a deep skillet, ensuring it reaches a depth of approximately 2 inches. Place the pan over medium-high heat and use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. It’s crucial to heat the oil until it reaches a consistent 350°F (180°C). Maintaining this temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown, crispy crust without overcooking the mushrooms.
- Fry the Mushrooms in Batches: Once the oil is at the correct temperature, carefully add the dredged mushrooms to the pan in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rather than crispy vegan fried chicken. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until each piece is beautifully golden brown and incredibly crispy. The exact time may vary slightly depending on the size of your mushrooms and the consistency of your oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, carefully remove the perfectly fried mushrooms from the hot oil. Immediately transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step is important for maintaining their crispiness. Serve your hot, fresh oyster mushroom fried chicken immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Crispiest Vegan Fried Chicken
Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful vegan fried chicken is an art, but these insider tips will help you master it every time:
- Master the Coating Technique: The secret to an irresistibly crispy crust lies in a thorough and even coating. After marinating, ensure each mushroom is completely covered in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour gently onto the mushroom to create a thick, adherent layer. Any spots that aren’t fully coated will not crisp up properly, leaving you with less-than-perfect plant-based fried chicken. Don’t be shy – really get in there and coat them well! For extra crispiness, you can even double-dredge by dipping the coated mushroom back into the buttermilk and then again into the flour, shaking off excess at each stage.
- Give Your Mushrooms Room to Fry: Overcrowding the pan is one of the most common mistakes when frying. When you add too many mushrooms at once, the oil temperature drops significantly, leading to soggy, greasy results instead of light and crispy ones. Fry your vegan fried chicken in small batches, leaving plenty of space between each piece. This allows the oil temperature to remain consistent, ensuring even cooking and optimal crispiness for every single piece. Patience here truly pays off!
- Maintain Optimal Oil Temperature: Frying is a delicate balance of heat. Use a reliable kitchen thermometer to monitor your oil’s temperature constantly. Aim for a steady 350°F (180°C). If you notice the temperature climbing too high, immediately lower the heat; if it starts to dip below 350°F, increase the heat. A consistent temperature prevents the mushrooms from burning on the outside before cooking through, or conversely, absorbing too much oil if the temperature is too low. This temperature finesse is crucial for beautifully golden and perfectly cooked oyster mushroom fried chicken.
- Drain Properly for Lasting Crispness: After frying, immediately transfer your crispy vegan fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet, rather than directly onto paper towels. While paper towels are good for initial oil absorption, placing them on a rack allows air to circulate around all sides, preventing the bottom from steaming and becoming soggy. This simple step ensures your fried mushrooms stay delightfully crispy.
- Season Immediately After Frying: For an extra burst of flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of salt or your favorite all-purpose seasoning over the hot vegan fried chicken immediately after removing it from the oil. The heat will help the seasoning adhere and penetrate, enhancing the overall taste.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Vegan Fried Chicken
This versatile oyster mushroom fried chicken can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways, making it perfect for any meal or occasion. Here are some fantastic ideas to get you started:
- Classic Entree: Embrace the spirit of Southern comfort food! Serve your vegan fried chicken as the star of a hearty meal. It pairs exceptionally well with creamy baked vegan mac and cheese, fluffy vegan mashed potatoes, and a rich, savory vegan gravy. Don’t forget a side of collard greens or sweet corn for a complete feast.
- The Ultimate Vegan Fried Chicken Sandwich: Transform your fried mushrooms into an epic sandwich. Place several pieces on a toasted bun, and layer with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, a generous smear of your favorite vegan mayo, tangy mustard, or even a spicy aioli. Add some pickles for extra crunch and tang!
- Flavorful Wraps: For a lighter, yet equally satisfying meal, roll up your crispy fried mushrooms in a soft tortilla. Add fresh ingredients like sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of your preferred dressing or sauce (perhaps a zesty lime crema or a smoky chipotle sauce) for a quick and flavorful wrap.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Cut the larger mushroom pieces into smaller, bite-sized portions before frying, or serve the whole pieces with an array of dipping sauces. This plant-based fried chicken makes an amazing appetizer for parties or game nights. Offer dipping sauces such as sweet and tangy roasted strawberry barbecue sauce, creamy oil-free vegan ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
- In Salads or Bowls: Chop the cooled fried mushrooms and add them as a protein-rich, crunchy topping to your favorite green salads or grain bowls for added texture and savory flavor.
Storing and Reheating Your Vegan Fried Chicken
While this vegan fried chicken is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh and hot, leftovers can be stored and reheated to retain some of their delicious crispiness. Proper storage and reheating methods are key to maximizing their lifespan and enjoyment.
To store, allow the fried mushrooms to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This prevents them from becoming soggy due to condensation.
For reheating, avoid the microwave, as it will inevitably make them soft. The best methods to revive their crispness are:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the leftover oyster mushroom fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the coating has re-crisped to your liking. Flipping them halfway through can help with even reheating.
- Air Fryer Method: An air fryer is an excellent tool for reheating fried foods! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are hot and crispy again. This method often yields the best results for recapturing that initial crunch.
Can I Freeze This Vegan Fried Chicken?
While freezing is a convenient way to store many dishes, I generally do not recommend freezing this vegan fried chicken recipe. The delicate texture of the oyster mushrooms, combined with the crispy fried coating, does not hold up well to the freezing and thawing process. When defrosted, the mushrooms tend to become quite soggy, and the once-crispy coating will lose its texture entirely, becoming soft and unappetizing.
For optimal taste, texture, and overall enjoyment, it’s always best to prepare and savor this plant-based fried chicken fresh. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider making a smaller batch or planning to enjoy the rest within the recommended 2-3 days of refrigeration.
Explore More Incredible Vegan Remakes
If you loved this oyster mushroom fried chicken and are looking for more plant-based twists on classic dishes, you’re in the right place! Here are some other fantastic vegan remakes that offer all the flavor and comfort without any animal products:
- Vegan Cajun Chicken Pasta: A spicy and creamy pasta dish that satisfies all your comfort food cravings with plant-based “chicken.”
- Vegan Chopped Cheese Sandwich: Experience the iconic New York deli favorite, fully veganized and bursting with flavor.
- Hearty Vegan Turkey Roast: Perfect for holidays or a special Sunday dinner, this plant-based “turkey” is incredibly savory.
- Comforting Vegan Chicken Pot Pie Casserole: All the warm, creamy goodness of a chicken pot pie, transformed into a delicious vegan casserole.
- Crispy Beer-Battered Vegan Fish Tacos: Lightly battered and fried to perfection, these “fish” tacos are an absolute delight.
We hope you truly enjoy making and devouring this fantastic vegan fried chicken, friends! If you create this recipe, we’d absolutely love to see your culinary masterpiece. Please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! Your feedback means the world to us, so please feel free to leave a comment below and give the recipe a well-deserved rating. Thank you so much for your support!
Vegan Fried Chicken
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Ingredients
- 10 ounces oyster mushrooms, 283 grams
- 1 ½ cups almond milk, 360 grams
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice, 22 grams
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar, 7 grams
- few drops of hot sauce, optional, to make it spicier
For the Coating:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, 60 grams
- ½ cup cornstarch, 80 grams
- 1 teaspoon salt, 5 grams
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, 2 grams
- 1 teaspoon paprika, 3 grams
- 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 grams
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 4 grams
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 2 grams
- Vegetable Oil for frying, I recommend canola oil, peanut oil or rice bran oil
Instructions
- Gently wipe the oyster mushrooms with a paper towel to remove any traces of dirt.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch and all the spices for the coating. Mix until well combined.
- Mix almond milk with lemon juice to create vegan buttermilk. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes.
- Add coconut sugar to the buttermilk, mix well, and pour the buttermilk mixture into a large bowl with mushrooms. Mix gently to coat the mushrooms and let them soak for about 10 minutes.
- Dip each mushroom into the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan. Ensure the oil reaches approximately 350°F (180°C).
- Place mushrooms into the oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove the fried mushrooms with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Notes
- Nutrition information doesn’t include the oil for cooking, as most is discarded.
- To store: Leftover vegan fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or until heated through. The air fryer also works and will help re-crisp the coating.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.