Go Back
Plated shot of crispy tofu tenders arranged neatly on a serving plate with a side of creamy dipping sauce. Fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon garnish the plate, creating a vibrant and inviting presentation.

Vegan Chicken Tenders Recipe

These crispy tofu tenders are the ultimate comfort food! Coated in flavorful breading with a smoky, spicy kick, they’re golden brown and perfectly crunchy. Serve as an appetizer, snack, or pair with fries for a fun meal!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine vegan
Servings 4
Calories 310 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (for marinade, dry dredge, and wet dredge)
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven (for frying)
  • Wire rack (for cooling tenders)
  • Thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)

Ingredients
  

Tofu Tenders

  • 16 oz Super Firm Tofu*

Marinade

  • 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 Tbsp Hot Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp Vegan Mayo or Neutral Oil
  • 1 Tbsp Water

Dry Dredge

  • 1/2 cup Flour
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 Tbsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne
  • 1/8 tsp White Pepper
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 – 1 tsp Salt
  • Cajun or Creole Seasoning to taste

Wet Dredge

  • 1 cup Plant Milk Unsweetened
  • 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp Hot Sauce
  • 3 – 4 Tbsp Flour

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Tofu: Slice tofu into tender shapes and set aside scraps for another dish.
    Overhead shot of tofu being sliced into tender shapes on a wooden cutting board. A sharp knife is mid-action, with tofu scraps neatly set aside for another dish. A bottle of soy sauce and a small jar of smoked paprika are in the corner.
  • Marinate: Combine marinade ingredients and coat tofu. Let it marinate for 30 minutes or overnight.
    Close-up of tofu strips coated in a golden marinade in a glass dish, with a brush sitting nearby. The marinade glistens under the light, showing the rich texture of the nutritional yeast and spices.
  • Pre-Grill: Grill the tenders for 4 minutes on each side. Cool.
  • Dredges: Prepare dry and wet dredge mixtures in separate bowls.
  • Heat Oil: Fill a skillet or Dutch oven with 2–3 inches of oil and heat to 375°F.
  • Coat Tenders: Dredge tofu in dry, wet, then dry mixture. Shake off excess each time. Double dredge for thicker breading, if desired.
  • Fry: Fry tenders in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
    Wide shot of golden tofu tenders cooling on a wire rack, with a paper towel underneath to catch excess oil. A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning is dusted over the top for extra color.
  • Serve: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
    Plated shot of crispy tofu tenders arranged neatly on a serving plate with a side of creamy dipping sauce. Fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon garnish the plate, creating a vibrant and inviting presentation.