Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
If you’re craving something crispy, spicy, and totally satisfying, then this Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe featuring Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit is going to become your new favorite. This dish masterfully mimics the texture and punch of classic fried chicken but uses tender young jackfruit that soaks up all the flavors beautifully. Paired with a perfectly seasoned, crispy coating achieved effortlessly in the air fryer, it’s a game changer for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based comfort meal without the guilt or fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and juicy tenderness in the jackfruit. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture that elevate this dish.
- Young green jackfruit (2 cans, drained and rinsed): The plant-based “chicken” that brings a shredded, meaty texture perfect for frying.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Helps the coating adhere and provides a crispy base; gluten-free flour works well for those avoiding gluten.
- Plant-based milk (1 cup, unsweetened): Activates the vinegar for marinating and keeps the jackfruit moist.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Tenderizes the jackfruit and adds a tangy depth.
- Hot sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers a spicy kick that you can easily adjust to taste.
- Paprika (1 tbsp): Brings warmth and a subtle smokiness to the coating.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a rich garlicky aroma without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Offers a mild sweetness that balances the heat.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Provides a gentle bite to round out the seasoning.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Infuses a deeper smoky flavor for complexity.
- Breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes (1 cup): Creates an irresistible crispy crust that holds up perfectly in the air fryer.
How to Make Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit
Start by draining and rinsing your canned jackfruit thoroughly, then pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Gently pull the pieces apart with your fingers to mimic shredded chicken texture. Some firmer chunks can be trimmed and shredded further so every bite cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Step 2: Create Your Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. This marinade is the magic touch that tenderizes the jackfruit while infusing it with a subtle tang and heat. Toss the shredded jackfruit in this mixture and let it sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes, allowing all those flavors to really sink in.
Step 3: Bread the Jackfruit
Prepare a breading station with one bowl containing the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper all mixed together. In another bowl, have your breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes ready. Dip each jackfruit piece first into the seasoned flour, then back into the marinade, and finally coat generously with breadcrumbs. This triple-dip process ensures a crunchy, flavorful shell after air frying.
Step 4: Air Fry for Perfect Crispiness
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded jackfruit in a single layer in the basket—avoid overcrowding so they crisp up beautifully. Lightly spray with oil for extra crunch, and air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through so every side turns golden brown and irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
As soon as your Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit is golden and crispy, serve it immediately! It’s fantastic on its own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces. This Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe also shines when tossed into tacos or served alongside fresh greens or fries for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime can brighten the dish and complement the spicy crispy jackfruit so beautifully. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of vegan ranch dressing also adds that extra touch of flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crispy air fryer fries for a classic combo, or a crunchy slaw to add refreshing crunch and contrast. Roasted vegetables or a cool avocado and tomato salad create a well-rounded meal that keeps the focus on bold, fresh flavors alongside that sizzling jackfruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond a standard plate—serve your jackfruit in soft warm tortillas for mouthwatering vegan tacos, pile it high on a sandwich bun with pickles and vegan mayo, or even over a bed of fluffy rice with steamed greens for a colorful and comforting bowl meal. Presenting it creatively makes every bite feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover jackfruit pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the delicious crispiness, it’s best to reheat in the air fryer rather than the microwave whenever possible.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze the breaded jackfruit before air frying. Place the coated pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, pop them straight into the air fryer—no thawing needed!
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method helps the coating regain its crunch and keeps the jackfruit tender inside, making it taste just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
Fresh young jackfruit can work, but it requires more prep time like peeling and boiling before shredding. Canned young green jackfruit is a convenient, reliable option that’s ready for shredding and marinating right out of the can.
Is this recipe really spicy?
The heat level is completely adjustable. You can add more or less hot sauce or swap it for a milder sauce depending on your spice preference. The spices and smoky notes also balance the heat for a flavorful but not overwhelming bite.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Crushed cornflakes or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully to keep that essential crunch.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake this on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy. The air fryer just speeds up the process and yields an extraordinarily even crisp.
Any tips for the crispiest coating?
Make sure to pat the jackfruit as dry as possible before starting, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and give the pieces a quick spray of oil before cooking. These simple tricks make all the difference in achieving perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe is a stellar example of how vegan cooking can be exciting, flavorful, and downright addictive. Once you try this Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. So grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s crispy, spicy, and packed with plant-powered goodness!
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Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit:A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit recipe offers a delicious and crispy plant-based alternative to traditional fried chicken. Made with young green jackfruit marinated in a spicy mixture, coated in seasoned flour and crunchy breadcrumbs, and air-fried to perfection, it’s a flavorful and healthy dinner option that is easy to prepare and perfect for those craving a hearty vegan meal.
Ingredients
Jackfruit
- 2 cans of young green jackfruit (drained and rinsed)
Marinade
- 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to your spice level)
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
- 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
- Prepare the Jackfruit: Begin by draining and rinsing the canned jackfruit. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Gently pull apart the jackfruit pieces to create a shredded, chicken-like texture. Some firmer parts can be cut into smaller pieces for better consistency.
- Create Your Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. Stir well to blend the flavors. Submerge the shredded jackfruit into the marinade and let it soak for 10-15 minutes to absorb the spicy, tangy flavor while tenderizing the fruit.
- Bread the Jackfruit: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one containing the seasoned flour mix (flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper), one with the remaining marinade liquid, and one with the breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Working in batches, take pieces of marinated jackfruit, first dredge in the flour mixture, then dip back into the marinade liquid if needed, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy outer layer.
- Air Fry for Perfect Crispiness: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded jackfruit pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the pieces with oil to enhance the crispiness. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time until the jackfruit is golden brown and crunchy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the jackfruit from the air fryer and serve hot. This spicy fried jackfruit pairs beautifully with dipping sauces, crispy fries, fresh salad, or tucked inside tacos for a comforting and flavorful vegan dinner.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spice level according to your preference.
- If you prefer, you can also pan-fry the jackfruit, but air frying offers a healthier option with less oil.
- Ensure jackfruit is well dried before marinating to help the breading stick better.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: vegan fried chicken, spicy jackfruit, air fryer recipes, vegan dinner, plant-based, crispy jackfruit
