Description

This Crispy Vegan KFC Popcorn Chicken recipe delivers a flavorful, crunchy, and plant-based alternative to the classic fried chicken bites. Made with rehydrated soy curls and a blend of spices, coated in a crispy flour and cornstarch mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection, it’s ready in just 20 minutes and perfect for a quick, satisfying vegan snack or meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Soy Curl Preparation

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

Coating Mixture

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)

Binding & Frying

1/2 cup Aquafaba (Can substitute with flax eggs or a cornstarch-water mix)
Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

Rehydrate Soy Curls: Soak the soy curls in no-chicken broth until fully rehydrated, about 10-15 minutes. This allows the soy curls to absorb flavor and soften properly for frying.
Prepare Coating Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and the 11-spice seasoning. This dry mix creates the crispy exterior of the popcorn chicken.
Coat Soy Curls: Drain the soaked soy curls and dip them into the aquafaba, which acts as a vegan binder. Then roll them thoroughly in the flour mixture ensuring an even coating.
Fry the Soy Curls: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated soy curls for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Drain and Serve: Remove the fried soy curls from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve the crispy vegan popcorn chicken immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For added flavor, soak soy curls in broth overnight.
Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.
Aquafaba can be substituted with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) if preferred.
Ensure oil temperature is medium to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Vegan American

Keywords: vegan popcorn chicken, vegan fried chicken, soy curl recipe, plant-based snack, crispy vegan chicken, KFC style vegan chicken