Vegan Chick-fil-A Style Tofu Nuggets

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Craving the iconic taste of Chick-fil-A nuggets but adhering to a plant-based diet? Look no further. These vegan Chick-fil-A style tofu nuggets capture the sweet and savory essence of the original, using agave syrup and dill pickle juice to achieve that familiar flavor. Paired with a delectable vegan honey mustard dipping sauce, this oil-free recipe offers a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Whether youā€™re a long-time vegan or exploring plant-based options, these nuggets are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up these nuggets in no time.
  2. Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of agaveā€™s sweetness and the tanginess of pickle juice creates a unique yet familiar taste that mirrors traditional Chick-fil-A nuggets.
  3. Oil-Free: Health-conscious individuals will appreciate that this recipe eliminates oil without sacrificing crispiness or flavor.
  4. Versatile: These nuggets are perfect as a main course, appetizer, or protein addition to salads and wraps.
  5. Kid-Friendly: The familiar nugget form and delightful taste make it a hit among younger eaters, making family meals a breeze.

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Ingredients

  • 14 oz (400 g) super-firm tofu (or extra-firm tofu, pressed)
  • Ā½ teaspoon soy sauce
  • Ā½ cup dill pickle juice
  • 2 tablespoons agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable broth powder or poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Ā¾ cup nutritional yeast

Equipment Used

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Tongs or slotted spoon

Directions & Instructions

  1. Optional Freezing/Thawing Technique: For a more ā€œchicken-likeā€ texture, freeze the tofu overnight. On the day of preparation, defrost it in the refrigerator for at least six hours. Once thawed, press the tofu to remove excess water.
  2. Prepare the Paste: In a large mixing bowl, combine dill pickle juice, agave syrup, soy sauce, vegetable broth powder (or poultry seasoning), sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutritional yeast. Stir until a thick paste forms. If the paste is too thin, add more nutritional yeast to achieve the desired consistency.
  3. Break the Tofu: Gently break the tofu into bite-sized chunks over the mixing bowl. Aim for irregular, nugget-like shapes with craggy edges to help the paste adhere better.
  4. Coat the Tofu: Carefully fold the tofu pieces into the paste, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated without breaking them apart.
  5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the coated tofu pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them out to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400Ā°F (200Ā°C). Bake the tofu nuggets for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  7. Prepare the Vegan Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: While the nuggets are baking, mix equal parts of your favorite vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Add agave syrup to taste, adjusting for your preferred level of sweetness. Stir until smooth.
  8. Serve: Once the nuggets are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the vegan honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of these vegan Chick-fil-A style tofu nuggets (without dipping sauce) provides approximately:

  • Calories: 171
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Sodium: 516 mg
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 7 g

These nuggets are not only delicious but also offer a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.

Prep Time and Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes (excluding optional freezing/thawing and pressing time)
  • Cook Time: 30 to 35 minutes

Variations

  • Air Fryer Method: For a quicker cooking time, prepare the nuggets as directed and cook them in an air fryer at 400Ā°F (200Ā°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.
  • Spicy Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the paste mixture to introduce some heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the tofu nuggets in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Vegan Chick-fil-A Style Tofu Nuggets

Elisa
Craving the iconic taste of Chick-fil-A nuggets but adhering to a plant-based diet? Look no further. These vegan Chick-fil-A style tofu nuggets capture the sweet and savory essence of the original, using agave syrup and dill pickle juice to achieve that familiar flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course dinner, Main dish
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Tongs or slotted spoon

Ingredients
Ā Ā 

  • 14 oz 400 g super-firm tofu (or extra-firm tofu, pressed)
  • Ā½ teaspoon soy sauce
  • Ā½ cup dill pickle juice
  • 2 tablespoons agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable broth powder or poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Ā¾ cup nutritional yeast

Instructions
Ā 

  • Optional Freezing/Thawing Technique: For a more "chicken-like" texture, freeze the tofu overnight. On the day of preparation, defrost it in the refrigerator for at least six hours. Once thawed, press the tofu to remove excess water.
  • Prepare the Paste: In a large mixing bowl, combine dill pickle juice, agave syrup, soy sauce, vegetable broth powder (or poultry seasoning), sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutritional yeast. Stir until a thick paste forms. If the paste is too thin, add more nutritional yeast to achieve the desired consistency.
  • Break the Tofu: Gently break the tofu into bite-sized chunks over the mixing bowl. Aim for irregular, nugget-like shapes with craggy edges to help the paste adhere better.
  • Coat the Tofu: Carefully fold the tofu pieces into the paste, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated without breaking them apart.
  • Arrange on Baking Sheet: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the coated tofu pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them out to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 400Ā°F (200Ā°C). Bake the tofu nuggets for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  • Prepare the Vegan Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: While the nuggets are baking, mix equal parts of your favorite vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Add agave syrup to taste, adjusting for your preferred level of sweetness. Stir until smooth.
  • Serve: Once the nuggets are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the vegan honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Air Fryer Method: For a quicker cooking time, prepare the nuggets as directed and cook them in an air fryer at 400Ā°F (200Ā°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Spicy Nuggets: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the paste mixture to introduce some heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.