Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit: A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
Are you looking for a mouthwatering vegan dish that’s crispy, spicy, and perfect for dinner? Look no further than this Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit recipe! Using canned jackfruit, this recipe is a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer makes this dish not only healthier but also super easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a hearty dinner or a tasty vegan appetizer, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why Jackfruit? The Perfect Chicken Substitute
Jackfruit is an amazing meat alternative that has gained popularity in the vegan world, especially in recipes that mimic chicken. Its texture closely resembles shredded chicken, and when seasoned well, it delivers incredible flavor. You’ll find it to be a great base for a variety of dishes like Jackfruit Nuggets, Fried Jackfruit, and this very recipe—Jackfruit Chicken.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cans of young green jackfruit (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
- 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to your spice level)
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for an extra crispy coating
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit
Begin by draining and rinsing the canned jackfruit. Pat it dry and gently pull it apart to create a shredded chicken texture. You may notice some firmer parts in the jackfruit; these can be cut into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Create Your Marinade
In a bowl, combine your plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. This mixture will help tenderize the jackfruit and give it that spicy kick. Let the jackfruit marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, absorbing all the flavors.
Step 3: Bread the Jackfruit
While the jackfruit marinates, set up a breading station. In one bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place your breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Take each piece of jackfruit, dip it in the flour mixture, then the milk mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Air Fry for Perfect Crispiness
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated jackfruit pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with oil to ensure maximum crispiness. Air fry for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit is ready, serve it hot with your favorite dipping sauces. It pairs perfectly with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or even in tacos for a satisfying dinner.
Why This Recipe Is So Tasty
This Jackfruit Recipe stands out because of the bold flavors from the spices and the crispy texture achieved through air frying. Each bite is crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a Vegan Appetizer or as a main dish for dinner, you’ll love the balance of spicy and savory flavors.
Pro Tips:
- Use canned jackfruit for convenience, but make sure it’s young green jackfruit and not the ripe variety.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce.
- For a healthier twist, serve these crispy jackfruit pieces in lettuce wraps or over a quinoa salad for a Lunch Saludable option.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit recipe is a tasty, plant-based take on fried chicken, perfect for dinner or as a Jackfruit Appetizer. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply curious about trying jackfruit recipes, this air fryer method makes it both easy and guilt-free. Try it out tonight and discover why jackfruit is becoming such a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike!
