Vegan Loaded Chicken Nuggets
These crispy vegan nuggets are made from plant-based protein or tofu, baked or air-fried until golden, then loaded with creamy dairy-free sauces, chopped veggies, herbs, and Mediterranean-style toppings. It’s a fun, hearty, and totally plant-based meal or appetizer.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Vegan Nuggets (or use store-bought vegan nuggets):
1 block firm tofu (14 oz), pressed and cut into nugget shapes
¼ cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray or drizzle
Toppings:
½ avocado, diced
¼ cup vegan tzatziki or garlic sauce
¼ cup hummus (optional)
¼ cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp Kalamata olives, sliced
2 tbsp vegan feta or tofu crumbles
Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu Nuggets:
Mix plant milk and vinegar to create vegan buttermilk. Let sit 5 min.
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip tofu pieces into almond milk, then coat in breadcrumb mix.
Place on a baking sheet, drizzle or spray with olive oil.
2. Bake or Air-Fry:
Bake: 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air-fry: 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, until crispy.
3. Assemble the Loaded Nuggets:
Place hot nuggets on a serving tray or plate.
Spoon over hummus and/or vegan garlic sauce.
Top with avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, vegan feta, and herbs.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon and black pepper.
Notes:
- Store-bought vegan nuggets work great if you’re in a hurry.
- Use jackfruit, tempeh, or seitan as an alternative to tofu.
- Drizzle with tahini or sriracha for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Press tofu well before coating to get a firm, chewy nugget texture.
- Double-coat the tofu for extra crunch.
- Customize toppings based on what you love — cucumber, pickled onions, or sun-dried tomatoes are great additions.
Frequently asked questions FAQs:
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free tofu or nuggets.
Q: Can I prep this in advance?
A: Bake the nuggets ahead of time and reheat in the oven or air fryer. Add toppings just before serving.
Q: Is there a store-bought vegan nugget you’d recommend?
A: Look for Gardein, MorningStar Farms (vegan line), or Daring for great texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~320
Protein: 15g
Fat: 17g
Carbs: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 500mg