Vegan Chicken and Waffles

Vegan chicken and waffles are a fun, plant-based twist on the classic combo that’s all about crispy, savory goodness paired with piles of soft, pillowy waffle wedges. This recipe gives you all the flavors you love, but with a dairy-free and meat-free spin that’s just as mouthwatering. This dish brings all the feel-good vibes and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner!

What makes these chicken and waffles even more exciting is how easy it is to make it your own. Choose your favorite crispy “chicken,” drizzle on some maple syrup, or top it with your favorite sauce for the ultimate sweet-and-savory combo. With this fun and simple recipe, you’ll be whipping up a crowd-pleasing meal that’s totally satisfying and loaded with flavor!

We guarantee you’ll be falling in love after the first forkful. Are you ready to whip out your waffle iron and tackle this tasty recipe?

Why This is the Best Vegan Chicken and Waffles Recipe

This plant-based chicken and waffles recipe is the perfect mix of crispy, savory, and sweet. It’s easy to make, super tasty, and a fun way to enjoy a plant-based twist on a classic dish! We can think of a million reasons why you should give this recipe a try, but we don’t want to keep you here all day.

• Comfort Food Vibes. Vegan chicken and waffles deliver that cozy, comforting feel of the classic dish without any animal products. It’s the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and sweet.
• Crispy, Crunchy Goodness. The vegan “chicken” in this recipe is fried to perfection, giving it that crispy texture everyone loves. It pairs so well with soft, fluffy waffles!
• Sweet and Savory Flavor Combo. This recipe is all about the sweet and savory contrast—crispy “chicken” with maple syrup over warm waffles. It’s a flavor match made in heaven.
• Plant-Based Protein. You get plenty of plant-based protein from the vegan chicken, keeping it satisfying and nutritious. It’s a filling meal that doesn’t miss out on important nutrients.
• Fun for Brunch or Dinner. Vegan chicken and waffles make a fun, unique option for brunch or dinner. It’s a great way to impress friends or enjoy a special treat at home.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Our vegan chicken and waffles recipe really relies on only two things: a waffle batter and whichever pre-packaged chicken-less product you prefer. What you add after that is up to you to decide––yum!

• Ground Flaxseed – Acts as a binder in place of eggs, helping to hold the batter together. It also adds a bit of fiber and omega-3s, making the recipe more nutritious. You can use chia seeds mixed with water, or a store-bought egg replacer.
• Vegan Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and moisture to both the waffles and the vegan chicken, helping them cook up golden and crispy. It also gives the dish a buttery flavor without dairy. Coconut oil or olive oil can work in place of dairy-free butter, but may slightly alter the flavor.
• Soymilk – Provides creaminess and moisture to the waffle batter, making the waffles light and fluffy. It’s also rich in protein, adding nutritional value. Feel free to use any other plant-based milk, like almond milk, oat, or homemade cashew milk, if you prefer a different flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the waffles their structure and fluffiness. It creates a stable base that helps them cook evenly and hold their shape. Gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour are other options, but you may need to adjust the liquid to keep the right consistency. (We absolutely adore this light and fluffy waffle batter recipe!)
• Vegan Chicken Nuggets – Provides the crispy, savory element that pairs so well with the waffles. You can choose from nuggets made from seitan, tofu, or jackfruit depending on your preference for texture and flavor. You can swap for veggie and chickpea nuggets, tempeh, fried oyster mushrooms, or crispy cauliflower as great alternatives for a different plant-based protein.

Vegan Chicken Nugget Options

There are so many amazing and appetizing alternatives out on the market that it’s almost impossible to keep up with them all. At the moment, some most popular chicken-less brands include:

• Eat Nowadays (healthy vegan chicken nuggets—this is what we used!)
• Jack & Annie’s (super delicious jackfruit nuggets)
• Gardein Nuggets
• Alpha Foods Nuggets
• Boca Nuggets
• MorningStar Farms Nuggets
• 365 Everyday Value (from Whole Foods)
• Rebellyous Foods

How to Make Chicken and Waffles

Making vegan chicken and waffles is a fun and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort dish. With crispy “chicken” and fluffy waffles, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any meal. Get ready to whip up a delicious plate that everyone will love!

Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron – Start by preheating your waffle iron to the recommended setting. This ensures your waffles cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Mix the Batter – In separate bowls, combine your dry ingredients and wet ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and whisk until smooth and well combined.

Then, Step 3: Cook the Waffles and Nuggets – Cook your waffles in the preheated waffle iron until golden brown. Meanwhile, prepare your vegan chicken nuggets by air-frying, baking, or frying according to the package instructions.

Finally, Step 4: Assemble Your Plate – Stack one or two waffles on a plate, top with crispy nuggets, a pat of vegan butter, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Grab your fork and knife, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips and Serving Suggestions for Vegan Chicken and Waffles

The best part of this recipe is all the fun you can have putting your pretty plate together. Because the plant-based nuggets and waffles are similar in shade, you can dress up this dish with a contrasting color—like adding accessories to your favorite party outfit!

• Drizzle with Maple Syrup or Sweet Sauce – For the perfect sweet-and-savory combo, drizzle your waffles and crispy vegan chicken with warm maple syrup, a sweet strawberry jam or a luscious cream cheese spread. It adds just the right amount of sweetness!
• Slather with Vegan Butter – Top your waffles with a pat of velvety vegan butter for extra richness. It melts perfectly over the hot waffles and takes them to the next level.
• Turn Up the Heat with Hot Sauce – For a spicy kick, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce on the vegan chicken. It brings a fun contrast to the sweet flavors of the dish. If you’re not a fan of spice, how about a rich egg-free aioli instead?
• Pair with Vegan Gravy – For a comforting twist, serve the waffles with a creamy vegan gravy. It makes the dish even heartier and more satisfying. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, this vegan mushroom gravy would be perfect.
• Pile On the Potatoes – A savory serving of breakfast isn’t quite complete without a side of starchy potatoes. Either silky and sliced hasselback-style, crispy golden fries, or heavenly hash brown waffles bring a bit of bulk and added satisfaction to your brunch.