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This image features crispy vegan chicken tenders marinated in flavorful spices, arranged in a square shape, with a side of creamy buffalo mayo for dipping.

Vegan Chicken Tenders Recipe

These crispy, golden-brown vegan chicken tenders are packed with flavor, thanks to a savory marinade and perfectly seasoned breading. Air-fried for a healthier twist, they're ideal for dipping into your favorite sauces or serving as a protein-packed snack.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 235 kcal

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Tofu press or heavy skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Air fryer
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Breading

  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Spray oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • ⅛ tsp black powder

Marinade

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp poultry seasoning
  • 1 cup nondairy milk unsweetened and unflavored
  • 1 tbsp onion powder

Buffalo Mayo

  • 1 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp buffalo sauce

Instructions
 

  • Press the tofu for 1–2 minutes to remove excess water, then slice into 8 even rectangles.
    This image shows tofu being pressed to remove excess water and sliced into even strips to prepare vegan chicken tenders.
  • Optionally, trim the corners for a tender-like shape, reserving scraps for other recipes.
    This image depicts tofu strips with corners being trimmed for a more rounded, authentic chicken tender shape, adding an aesthetic touch.
  • Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl and soak tofu pieces for 20 minutes to 8 hours.
    This image showcases a bowl of spices and seasonings being mixed to create a bold and savory marinade for the tofu strips.
  • Prepare breading by combining ingredients on a flat plate or shallow dish.
  • Coat each tofu piece in flour, dip it back in the marinade, and then coat in breading.
    This image shows tofu strips being soaked in a vibrant and aromatic marinade to absorb rich flavors.
  • Arrange coated tofu on a plate and spray generously with oil.
    This image features breaded tofu strips neatly placed on an air fryer tray, ready for cooking to crispy perfection.
  • Air-fry at 390°F (198°C) for 15 minutes, ensuring tenders don’t touch for even cooking.
    vegan-chicken-tenders-air-frying-in-black-air-fryer
  • While frying, mix buffalo mayo ingredients in a small bowl.
    buffalo-mayo-in-clear-glass-bowl-on-white-marble
  • Season cooked tenders with sea salt and black pepper, then serve and enjoy
    serving-the-crispy-air-fried-vegan-chicken-tenders-on-a-white-round-plate-with-sauce-by-the-side-for-extra-flavours

Notes

  • Pressing tofu briefly ensures better absorption of the marinade.
  • Letting the tenders marinate longer intensifies the flavor