Crispy Vegan KFC Popcorn Chicken in Just 20 Minutes! Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy the crispy, flavorful delight of vegan KFC-style popcorn chicken made from soy curls. This quick and easy recipe delivers a satisfying crunch in just 20 minutes, perfect for a snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Soy Curls (Rehydrate in broth for best flavor.)
• 1 cup No-Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can work as a substitute.)
• 1/2 cup Aquafaba (Can substitute with flax eggs or a cornstarch-water mix.)
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Consider using potato starch for a different crunch.)
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Opt for gluten-free flour if needed.)
• 2 tablespoons 11-Spice Seasoning (Or substitute with salt, pepper, and paprika.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soak the soy curls in no-chicken broth until fully rehydrated, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and the 11-spice seasoning.
3. Step 3: Drain the soaked soy curls, dip them into aquafaba, and roll them in the coating mixture to fully cover.
4. Step 4: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the coated soy curls for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Step 5: Remove from oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the soy curls in spices or hot sauce before soaking.
• Try potato starch instead of cornstarch for a lighter crunch.
• Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivity.
• Serve with your favorite vegan dipping sauces like BBQ or vegan ranch.

Storage

Store any leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of plant-based protein instead of soy curls?

Yes, you can substitute with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or small pieces of firm tofu, adjusting soaking and cooking times accordingly.

Is aquafaba necessary for the coating?

Aquafaba helps the coating stick and adds moisture, but you can use flax eggs or a cornstarch-water mixture as effective alternatives.

Crispy Vegan KFC Popcorn Chicken in Just 20 Minutes! Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 96 reviews

This Crispy Vegan KFC Popcorn Chicken recipe features rehydrated soy curls coated in a flavorful 11-spice seasoning blend and fried to golden perfection. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a delicious plant-based alternative to classic popcorn chicken, perfect for a quick snack or meal.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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For the Soy Curls

• 1 cup Soy Curls (Rehydrated in broth for best flavor)
• 1 cup No-Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can work as a substitute)

For the Coating

• 1/2 cup Aquafaba (Can substitute with flax eggs or a cornstarch-water mix)
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Consider using potato starch for a different crunch)
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Opt for gluten-free flour if needed)
• 2 tablespoons 11-Spice Seasoning (Or substitute with salt, pepper, and paprika)

Instructions

1. Rehydrate Soy Curls: Soak the soy curls in no-chicken broth for about 10-15 minutes until fully rehydrated, allowing them to absorb the flavorful liquid and become tender.
2. Prepare Coating Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and the 11-spice seasoning to create a well-seasoned, crispy coating.
3. Coat the Soy Curls: Drain the soaked soy curls thoroughly, then dip them into the aquafaba to help the coating stick. Roll each piece in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
4. Fry the Popcorn Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the coated soy curls for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried soy curls from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and verify the seasoning blend is gluten-free.
• Aquafaba can be replaced with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or a cornstarch-water slurry for binding.
• Using potato starch instead of cornstarch can add a different texture and crunch to the coating.
• Be cautious with oil temperature to avoid burning; maintain medium heat while frying.
• This recipe works well as a snack, appetizer, or main dish when paired with dipping sauces and sides.

Keywords: vegan popcorn chicken, soy curls recipe, crispy vegan chicken, plant-based snack, quick vegan snack