Crispy Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat You’ll Love
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Sophie
The moment you bite into this crispy Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken, you ll understand why it s become a staple in my kitchen. The warm, inviting scent of an 11-herb and spice blend fills the air, instantly comforting and reminiscent of indulgent family dinners. I first tried this recipe after cringing at my regular fast-food outings; the idea of a plant-based twist on a classic was too intriguing to resist.
Perfect for casual get-togethers or simply treating yourself after a busy day, this dish delivers all the crunch and flavor you crave, minus the guilt. Whether you re a dedicated vegan or just looking to mix up your meal routine, this recipe offers a delightful alternative that s surprisingly easy to whip up. Get ready to savor the satisfaction of homemade comfort food without the cruelty.
Why You ll Love This Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat?
Crispy Delight: You ve never experienced crunch like this! Each bite offers a satisfying texture that rivals traditional fried chicken.
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of 11 herbs and spices delivers a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for more.
Versatile Options: Want something different? Swap oyster mushrooms for tofu or even tempeh for varied textures while maintaining that incredible taste.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal effort, you can create this comfort food classic in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy all the indulgence without the guilt, as this plant-based twist is not only delicious but also lower in fat than its fast-food counterpart. Get ready to impress with a guilt-free version of a favorite classic!
Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat Ingredients
For the Coating
Oyster Mushroom Clusters Use 4 large or 9-10 small clusters for a great texture.
All-purpose Flour Creates the crispy coating; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
Baking Powder Adds leavening for a light and airy batter.
Black Salt Provides an eggy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic Powder Adds savory depth; use for an extra layer of flavor.
Onion Powder Complements garlic nicely, elevating your dish.
Ground Ginger Powder Introduces warmth and spice to the coating.
Paprika Powder Delivers rich color and a hint of smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper/Chili Powder Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Dried Thyme, Basil, Oregano Herbs that elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
All Spice Provides unique complexity to the coating.
White Pepper Adds a mild heat and flavor to round out the spices.
For the Batter
Neutral Oil Essential for frying to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Unsweetened Oat or Soy Milk Forms the vegan buttermilk; use 2/3 cup for moisture.
Lemon Juice Provides acidity, enhancing the flavor of your vegan buttermilk.
This Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat is not only a satisfying comfort food; it s also a fantastic way to indulge without compromising on your dietary choices!
How to Make Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat
-
Prepare the Vegan Buttermilk:
Mix the oat or soy milk with the lemon juice and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it thickens. This will give your batter the perfect tangy flavor. -
Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the 11 herbs and spices. Ensure everything is well mixed for a uniform flavor across your coating. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Take 1/3 cup of the flour mixture and mix it with the prepared vegan buttermilk until you create a smooth batter. This is crucial for that crispy coating you desire. -
Heat the Oil:
In a frying pan, add enough neutral oil for deep frying and heat it to about 350 °F (175 °C). A hot oil ensures that your clusters turn golden and crispy! -
Coat the Mushroom Clusters:
Dunk the oyster mushroom clusters in the wet batter, making sure they re fully covered. Then, coat each cluster in the dry flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour to achieve the perfect crunch. -
Fry to Perfection:
Carefully lower each coated cluster into the hot oil, frying for about 5-7 minutes per batch until they re golden brown and crispy. You ll know they re ready when they smell irresistible! -
Drain and Serve:
Place the fried clusters on paper towels to drain excess oil, then serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious finish!
Optional: Serve with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken
Oil Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350 °F/175 °C) before frying; this is key for achieving that crispy texture in your Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken copycat.
Avoid Sogginess: Let excess batter drip off after coating before frying. This prevents the coating from becoming soggy, keeping it crunchy.
Batch Frying: Fry the clusters in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent, allowing every piece to cook evenly and turn crispy.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spicing and herbs make a noticeable difference. Don t use stale spices; they can dull the flavor of your Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken.
Save for Later: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness instead of using a microwave.
What to Serve with Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken?
A comforting meal is incomplete without the perfect sides to elevate your dining experience.
-
Creamy Vegan Coleslaw: This refreshing side provides a crunchy contrast to the crispy chicken, adding a vibrant touch to your plate. Tossed in a tangy vegan dressing, it s a must-have for a wholesome meal.
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy, these fluffy potatoes offer a soothing texture that balances the bold flavors of your fried chicken. Top with a drizzle of vegan gravy for a heartwarming touch.
-
Homemade Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, these golden biscuits bring a classic touch to your meal. They re perfect for slathering with vegan butter or enjoying with a side of sweet jam.
-
Southern-Style Baked Beans: This side packs a punch of flavor and sweetness. The hearty beans complement the savory spices of your chicken and bring a delightful comfort to your table.
-
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these naturally sweet fries add a flavorful twist. Their slight sweetness creates a lovely contrast with the savory seasoning of your fried chicken.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a refreshing drink. Lemonade s zest complements the spices beautifully, while iced tea offers a classic Southern pairing that everyone will love.
Completing your meal with these sides will surely make your Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken copycat experience unforgettable!
Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste preferences for an exciting twist!
-
Tofu Twist: Substitute oyster mushrooms with pressed, extra-firm tofu for a high-protein alternative that still soaks in all the delicious flavors.
-
Tempeh Swap: Use tempeh instead of mushrooms for a nuttier flavor and a firmer texture that holds up beautifully during frying.
-
Flavored Flour: Enhance the flour mixture by adding nutritional yeast or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor that really pops!
-
Gluten-Free Goodness: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this delightful dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
-
Herb & Spice Adventure: Experiment with different combinations of herbs like dill or rosemary to personalize your batter and bring fresh tastes to the table.
-
Heat It Up: Amp up the heat by adding jalape ±o powder or more cayenne pepper to the batter for those who crave a fiery kick with their crunch.
-
Batter Variations: For a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or vegan yogurt to your wet batter it will make your chicken irresistibly zesty!
-
Savory Crunchies: Incorporate crushed cornflakes or panko bread crumbs into the flour mixture for an extra crunchy coating that ll elevate the texture significantly.
Every twist you make is an opportunity to create a brand-new flavor that will leave your family and friends raving about your delicious creativity!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cooked clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Thawing: If frozen, allow the Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring even warming throughout.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat delights are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dry flour mixture and the vegan buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, avoid battering the mushroom clusters until you re ready to cook them; this ensures they remain crispy and flavorful. When you re ready to enjoy, simply dunk the clusters in the wet batter, coat them with the flour mixture, and fry them to a golden perfection. Trust me, they ll still be just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best oyster mushrooms?
Absolutely! When choosing oyster mushrooms, look for clusters that are firm and plump with a clean white or light beige color. Avoid any clusters that have dark spots or excessive moisture, as they may indicate spoilage. Fresh mushrooms will have a mild, pleasant aroma and should not be dried out.
What s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your leftover Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain its crispiness, make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing. When you re ready to enjoy, reheat it in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10-15 minutes the perfect method for restoring that crunch!
Can I freeze Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken?
Definitely! If you want to freeze your Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken, first place the cooked clusters in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer the clusters to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you re ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for even reheating.
What should I do if my coating is not crispy?
No worries at all! If your coating isn t crispy, check a few things: first, make sure the oil temperature is hot enough (at least 350 °F/175 °C) before frying. Also, ensure that the excess batter is shaken off well before frying, as too much can weigh down the coating. Lastly, try frying in smaller batches to maintain the oil temperature; that way, each piece gets the attention it needs to crisp up!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Of course! This Vegan KFC Style Fried Chicken is naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free by using a suitable flour substitute. It s a fantastic option for plant-based eaters but always check that your spices and ingredients are free from allergens like soy if you have a sensitivity. Plus, if you re planning to share with pets, it s best to keep this flavorful dish to the humans, as spices can be troublesome for our furry friends.