Spicy Chicken Tenders: 7 Bold & Tasty Vegan Substitutes

Crispy, spicy, and irresistibly delicious, spicy chicken tenders have long been a favorite for those who love bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. Traditionally made with seasoned chicken, these tenders are often coated in a flavorful spice blend and fried to perfection. But what if you could enjoy the same crispy, spicy goodness without the meat?

As more people embrace plant-based alternatives for health, ethical, and environmental reasons, the demand for vegan chicken substitutes has skyrocketed. Whether you’re looking to cut back on meat, follow a vegan diet, or simply explore new flavors, there are plenty of plant-based options that deliver the same texture and taste—without sacrificing crunch or spice.

In this article, we’ll explore 7 bold & tasty vegan substitutes for spicy chicken tenders, using seitan, jackfruit, tofu, tempeh, chickpea flour, and more. These meatless alternatives are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for air frying, baking, or pan-frying. Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy, spicy, and totally plant-based recipes!

Why Choose Vegan Spicy Chicken Tenders?

Switching to vegan spicy chicken tenders isn’t just about eliminating meat—it’s about embracing a healthier, more sustainable, and equally delicious alternative. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or simply looking for new ways to enjoy crispy, flavorful tenders, vegan substitutes offer a range of benefits.

Health Benefits

Unlike traditional fried chicken, which is often high in cholesterol and saturated fats, plant-based alternatives can be a healthier choice. Tofu, tempeh, and seitan are excellent sources of plant-based protein, providing the essential nutrients needed to support muscle growth and overall health. Tempeh, for example, is rich in probiotics that promote gut health, while seitan is packed with protein and has a satisfying, meaty texture. By choosing vegan tenders, you can enjoy a high-protein meal without the added cholesterol found in animal-based versions. Looking for more high-protein vegan ideas? Check out our high-protein slow cooker recipes for inspiration.

Environmental Impact

Opting for plant-based spicy chicken tenders can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Traditional poultry farming requires large amounts of water, land, and feed, contributing to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, plant-based ingredients like jackfruit, tofu, and chickpea flour require fewer resources to produce. By making this simple swap, you’re not only supporting your health but also helping the planet by reducing water usage and lowering emissions.

Flavor & Texture

One of the biggest concerns for those transitioning to plant-based eating is whether vegan alternatives can match the taste and texture of traditional chicken tenders. Thanks to innovative cooking techniques and ingredients like crispy panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and coconut yogurt marinades, vegan tenders can be just as crunchy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether air-fried, baked, or pan-fried, these plant-based alternatives absorb seasonings beautifully, delivering the perfect combination of spice and crispiness in every bite.

7 Bold & Tasty Vegan Substitutes for Spicy Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for the perfect spicy chicken tenders alternative, there are plenty of plant-based options that deliver the same crispy, flavorful experience. These substitutes offer a variety of textures and flavors while keeping the spice level high. Here are seven delicious ways to enjoy vegan-friendly spicy tenders.

1 Seitan Spicy Chicken Tenders

Why Seitan? Seitan is a high-protein, wheat-based meat alternative with a firm and chewy texture, making it one of the best substitutes for chicken tenders.

Key Ingredients:

• Seitan

• Smoked paprika

• Hot sauce

• Garlic powder

• Nutritional yeast

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Olive oil

Cooking Method:

• Slice seitan into tender-sized strips.

• Coat with a mixture of hot sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

• Roll in panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

• Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes, bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, or pan-fry until golden brown.

Best Served With: Vegan buttermilk ranch or BBQ sauce.

2 Crispy Tofu Tenders

Why Tofu? Tofu is excellent at absorbing marinades and provides a crispy outer layer when coated and cooked properly.

Key Ingredients:

• Firm tofu

• Cornstarch

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Coconut yogurt

• Cayenne pepper

• Garlic powder

• Lemon juice

Cooking Method:

• Press and freeze tofu to improve its texture.

• Cut into strips and marinate in coconut yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder.

• Coat in cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs for crispiness.

• Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown.

Best Served With: Spicy vegan mayo or chipotle sauce.

3 Jackfruit Buffalo Tenders

Why Jackfruit? Jackfruit has a pulled, shredded texture that makes it a great substitute for chicken.

Key Ingredients:

• Young jackfruit (canned in water or brine)

• Hot sauce

• Chickpea flour

• Garlic powder

• Smoked paprika

• Apple cider vinegar

Cooking Method:

• Drain and shred jackfruit to create a tender-like texture.

• Toss in a mixture of hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.

• Dip in chickpea flour batter and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

• Coat in extra buffalo sauce before serving.

Best Served With: Vegan blue cheese dressing.

4 Tempeh Spicy Tenders

Why Tempeh? Tempeh has a nutty flavor and firm texture that holds up well to marinades and frying.

Key Ingredients:

• Tempeh

• Soy sauce

• Cayenne pepper

• Garlic powder

• Mustard

• Panko breadcrumbs

Cooking Method:

• Slice tempeh into strips and steam for 10 minutes to soften.

• Marinate in soy sauce, mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

• Coat in panko breadcrumbs for crispiness.

• Air fry at 375°F for 12 minutes or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.

Best Served With: Spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo.

5 Chickpea Flour Crispy Tenders

Why Chickpea Flour? Chickpea flour creates a crispy batter that mimics fried chicken without gluten.

Key Ingredients:

• Chickpea flour

• Water

• Smoked paprika

• Onion powder

• Black pepper

• Panko breadcrumbs

Cooking Method:

• Mix chickpea flour, water, and seasonings to form a batter.

• Dip sliced vegetables or tofu into the batter, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.

• Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or pan-fry until golden.

Best Served With: Garlic aioli or tahini dressing.

6 Cauliflower Hot Wings

Why Cauliflower? Cauliflower has a tender texture and absorbs bold flavors, making it a great alternative for spicy tenders.

Key Ingredients:

• Cauliflower florets

• Hot sauce

• Almond flour

• Garlic powder

• Smoked paprika

Cooking Method:

• Cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.

• Coat in a mixture of almond flour, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

• Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, tossing in hot sauce halfway through.

Best Served With: Vegan ranch dressing.

7 Oyster Mushroom Tenders

Why Oyster Mushrooms? Oyster mushrooms have a chewy texture and natural umami flavor that makes them a great substitute for chicken.

Key Ingredients:

• Oyster mushrooms

• Cornstarch

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• Unsweetened plant-based milk

• Panko breadcrumbs

Cooking Method:

• Dip oyster mushrooms in plant-based milk.

• Coat in a mixture of cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika.

• Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes or deep-fry for a crispier texture.

Each of these spicy chicken tenders substitutes provides a unique texture and bold flavor, allowing you to enjoy a plant-based version of your favorite crispy tenders. Whether you prefer the chewiness of seitan, the tenderness of jackfruit, or the crispiness of tofu, there’s a vegan alternative that suits every taste preference.

How to Make the Perfect Vegan Spicy Tenders

Creating the ultimate spicy chicken tenders without meat requires the right combination of seasonings, cooking techniques, and textures. Whether you’re using seitan, tofu, jackfruit, or another plant-based alternative, following these expert tips will help you achieve bold flavor and crispy perfection every time.

Best Seasonings for a Bold Flavor

To mimic the rich, smoky heat of traditional spicy chicken tenders, the right seasonings are essential. Using a blend of spices ensures deep, well-rounded flavor in every bite.

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky heat that enhances the overall spiciness.

• Cayenne Pepper: A must-have for a fiery kick, perfect for those who love extra heat.

• Nutritional Yeast: Provides a subtle umami, cheesy flavor that pairs well with spice.

• Garlic & Onion Powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering other spices.

• Black Pepper & Mustard Powder: Adds complexity and a peppery bite.

For the best flavor, coat your plant-based tenders in a wet marinade before dredging them in a dry seasoning mix. This helps the spices adhere and infuse the tenders with bold taste. Want more sauce inspiration? Try our vegan bang bang sauce recipe for a spicy twist.

How to Achieve a Crispy Texture

One of the biggest challenges in making vegan spicy chicken tenders is getting that signature crunch. The secret to a crispy coating lies in the right ingredients and technique.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These extra-light, flaky breadcrumbs create a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. Pick up a quality pack from Amazon, like this Panko Breadcrumbs option, for the crispiest results.

• Double-Coating Technique: Dip the tenders in a wet batter (such as coconut yogurt or plant-based milk mixed with hot sauce) before rolling them in seasoned panko. For an extra-crispy finish, repeat the coating process twice.

• Cornstarch or Chickpea Flour: A light dusting before dipping into the batter helps absorb moisture and leads to a crispier crust.

• Resting Time: Let the coated tenders sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking to allow the coating to adhere better.

Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Pan-Fry: Pros and Cons

The cooking method you choose will impact both texture and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each method for cooking vegan spicy chicken tenders.

Air Fryer

Pros:

• Produces the crispiest texture with little to no oil.

• Faster cooking time compared to the oven.

• Healthier alternative to frying.

Cons:

• Can dry out certain plant-based substitutes if overcooked.

• Limited cooking space, requiring multiple batches.

Oven Baking

Pros:

• Great for cooking larger batches at once.

• Evenly bakes tenders without excessive oil.

• Keeps the inside moist while crisping up the outside.

Cons:

• Can take longer than air frying.

• May require flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Pan-Frying

Pros:

• Delivers the crispiest and most golden-brown texture.

• Adds a rich, flavorful crust due to direct heat contact.

Cons:

• Requires more oil, making it less healthy than air frying or baking.

• Can result in uneven cooking if not monitored closely.

For the perfect balance of crispiness and convenience, air frying is the best option. However, for those who prefer a more traditional fried texture, pan-frying in a light layer of oil will provide the crunchiest results. Baking is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthier, hands-off method that still yields deliciously crispy tenders.

By mastering these techniques, you can create plant-based spicy chicken tenders that rival any traditional version—bold, crispy, and packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Dipping Sauces

Pairing the perfect sides and sauces with your spicy chicken tenders enhances their flavor and elevates the overall meal experience. Whether you prefer creamy, smoky, or tangy dips, or want to balance the heat with comforting side dishes, there are plenty of delicious options to explore.

Best Dips for Spicy Vegan Tenders

A great dipping sauce complements the bold, fiery taste of spicy chicken tenders, adding layers of flavor and texture. Here are some top choices:

• Vegan Ranch: The cool, creamy texture of vegan ranch dressing helps balance the heat while adding a rich, herby flavor.

• BBQ Sauce: A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy coating of plant-based tenders. Explore more BBQ ideas with our vegan smoker recipes.

• Tahini Sauce: For a nutty, tangy twist, a lemony tahini sauce provides a smooth contrast to the spice.

• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Mixing vegan mayo with sriracha creates a creamy dip with an extra spicy kick.

Side Dishes

Serving spicy chicken tenders with the right sides makes for a satisfying meal. Here are a few flavorful options:

• Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the heat of the tenders, while their crispiness adds extra texture. Try our purple sweet potato recipes for a colorful twist.

• Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides a cooling contrast. Check out our Jamaican cabbage recipe for a flavorful variation.

• Vegan Mac & Cheese: Creamy and comforting, plant-based mac and cheese adds richness to balance the spice. Dive into our vegan baked mac and cheese recipe for a TikTok-inspired treat.

• Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized sprouts add a savory depth that pairs well with spicy flavors. Get tips from our Brussels cabbage recipe.

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

What’s the best way to store and reheat?

To keep your spicy chicken tenders fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. For the best texture when reheating, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Are these high in protein?

Conclusion