Easy Popcorn Tofu Recipe (2024)

ByLynda SelfPublishedAugust 29, 2019January 24, 2024Updated onJanuary 24, 2024

These popcorn tofu nuggets are a good alternative to chicken. The unique preparation method involves a brining process in zesty pickle juice, imparting a burst of flavor and tenderness to the tofu. Once marinated, the tofu is coated in a seasoned pancake mix that adds a delightful crunch when fried to golden perfection. The result is a taste reminiscent of the popular Chick-Fil-A nuggets, making these popcorn tofu nuggets a flavorful and cruelty-free option for those seeking a plant-based twist on a classic favorite.

Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these nuggets showcase the versatility of tofu and the creative possibilities of plant-based cooking, proving that indulging in delicious alternatives can be both satisfying and compassionate.

This popcorn tofu is a good solution for those times that you want some Chick-Fil-A chicken nuggets but want to eat compassionately. No, you did not read that wrong. I made a vegan popcorn chicken recipe using tofu that tastes similar to Chick-Fil-A chicken and it was pretty darn good, even though it was meat-free.

Want to know what inspired me? (Warning: some may find the following photos disturbing.)

I saw this while driving home one day.

Eggs and cracked eggs everywhere.

I am not a vegetarian – yet, but when I see these trucks it makes me wish that I was. I like my chickens to have a good life – cage-free, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free. I doubt that these were. These girls could end up anywhere, including one of my favorite fast-food joints.

I had some of the batter that I use to make my Chick-Fil-A clone and decided to try some tofu nuggets.

I used organic tofu made with non-GMO soybeans. An 8-ounce container has 2.5 servings, each with only 100 calories and 11 grams of protein. Don’t ask how many total calories this has or how many Weight Watcher points. I have no clue. But if you are limiting your meat or are a vegan, this would be a great substitute.

Ingredients

For this fun vegan dish, you need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces of Tofu, drained
• 2 cups peanut oil
• 2 cups dry pancake mix
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon basil
• Pickle Juice

Directions

To make it, start by soaking the tofu in pickle juice and placing it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Next, combine all of the dry ingredients in a large container and set it aside.

When it is time to fry, place peanut or vegetable oil in a large skillet and heat the oil to 350 degrees.

Drain the tofu and coat each piece with dry batter.

Fry for approximately 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked thoroughly.

Here is what the recipe looks like made with the real thing (chicken):

I think that the tofu looks pretty much like the real (clone) thing, don’t you? The texture is a little bit different, but until there is real Chick-Fil-A tofu on the menu, these vegantofu chicken nuggets are a great substitute.

More Vegan Recipes

• Easy Vegan Cheese Sauce
• Tomato Curry Sauce
• Carrot Juice
• Ginger Green Juice

Be sure to come back and tell us how your tofu nuggets turned out!