Let’s be honest—vegan chicken wings sound like one of those plant-based creations you’re either curious about… or deeply skeptical of. I’ve been there. The first time I tried them at a pop-up vegan chicken wings restaurant, I expected a soggy, flavorless substitute. But what I got was crispy, saucy, and strangely familiar. It didn’t just taste “like” wings—it felt like them. That bite. That crunch. That finger-licking magic.
If you’re on a plant-based journey (or just wing-curious), you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re planning game night snacks, a party platter, or a cozy dinner, I’ll walk you through everything—from what they are to how to make vegan chicken wings that’ll blow minds.
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What Are Vegan Chicken Wings and Why Are They So Popular?
Vegan chicken wings are a clever, plant-powered take on classic wings—minus the meat. They’re made from ingredients like seitan, tofu, soy curls, or even cauliflower. Some versions are chewy and protein-rich (hello seitan), while others are crispy and light (looking at you, cauliflower). Either way, they’re coated in bold sauces like Buffalo, BBQ, or even Korean gochujang for a punch of flavor.
So why the hype?
Honestly, it’s about inclusion. Imagine being at a party with trays of wings—and not having to skip out. You get the taste, the fun, and that sticky-fingered satisfaction… without compromising your ethics or health goals. It’s the best of both worlds. Plus, with growing awareness around sustainability and animal welfare, more people are trying plant-based versions of their favorite comfort foods.
Here’s a quick comparison of common vegan wing bases:
| Base Ingredient | Texture | Protein (per 100g) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seitan | Chewy, meaty | 25g | Classic-style wings |
| Cauliflower | Tender, crispy | 2g | Light, crunchy versions |
| Tofu | Soft, firm | 8–10g | Asian-inspired wings |
| Soy Curls | Stringy, chewy | 16g | BBQ or jerk-style wings |
How to Make Vegan Chicken Wings That Actually Taste Amazing
Okay, let’s talk homemade wings. Making your own vegan chicken wings is easier than it sounds. You don’t need fancy tools—just some basic ingredients and a little patience.
Here’s a simple breakdown for a vegan chicken wings recipe that delivers big flavor:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten (for seitan wings)
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 3/4 cup veggie broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Sauce of choice (Buffalo, BBQ, etc.)
Step-by-Step:
- Mix your dry and wet ingredients to form a dough.
- Knead it until elastic—about 5 minutes.
- Shape into wing pieces and steam them for 30 minutes.
- Let cool, then coat in your sauce.
- Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
Now here’s the fun twist. Want that bone-in feel? Try vegan chicken wings with stick or even vegan chicken wings with bone—yes, you read that right! Some clever cooks use sugarcane, lemongrass, or even trimmed wooden skewers to simulate a bone. It’s purely for the hand-feel and nostalgia, but trust me—it makes a difference. Think of it as a little edible theater.
Where to Find the Best Vegan Chicken Wings (Restaurants and Brands to Try)
Not in the mood to cook? No problem. The best vegan chicken wings can now be found in local restaurants, food trucks, and even your favorite grocery store. And the options just keep getting better.
Top Vegan Restaurants Serving Wings:
- PLANTA (multiple locations) – Famous for spicy Buffalo cauliflower wings.
- Monty’s Good Burger (California) – Their seitan wings are crispy perfection.
- Blossom Du Jour (NYC) – Their Korean BBQ wings are a must-try.
Store-Bought Favorites:
- Gardein Classic Wings – Great texture, easy to air fry.
- LikeMeat Chick’n Wings – These come with a bone-style stick and tangy sauce.
- Field Roast Buffalo Wings – Savory, satisfying, and protein-rich.
Bonus tip? Many of these brands are available online or in-store. Check out Homexan’s grocery guide for tips on where to buy the best vegan meat alternatives. Trust me, they’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.
Tips for Making Vegan Wings Even Meat-Eaters Will Love
You know you’ve nailed it when your meat-loving cousin grabs a second helping and doesn’t even ask what it’s made of. So here are some tried-and-true tips to make your vegan chicken wings truly unforgettable:
- Double-cook for texture. Steam or simmer first, then bake or fry. That combo gives you a chewy center with a crisp edge.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning. Garlic, onion, paprika, and liquid smoke work wonders.
- Marinate overnight. For a deeper flavor, especially with tofu or soy curls.
- Serve with legit sides. Celery, vegan ranch, or even curly fries. Presentation counts!
And if you’re going all out, consider a birthday platter of vegan wings. No joke—I once served spicy-sweet wings with a side of vegan mac and cheese at a birthday party, and people are still talking about it. Who said plant-based had to be boring?
FAQs
What are vegan chicken wings made of?
Vegan wings can be made from seitan, tofu, cauliflower, or soy curls. They’re usually seasoned and coated in sauces like Buffalo or BBQ.
How do I make vegan chicken wings with bone?
You can use sugarcane sticks, lemongrass stalks, or wooden skewers to create a “bone-in” effect. It’s just for the feel—totally edible or removable!
Are vegan wings healthier than regular wings?
They can be! Most vegan wings are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. But like anything, it depends on how they’re prepared—fried wings, vegan or not, are still indulgent.
Where can I find vegan chicken wings near me?
Many plant-based or fast-casual restaurants offer them. Search for vegan chicken wings restaurant in your area or check platforms like HappyCow for local spots.
Can I make vegan wings gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use cauliflower or soy-based options instead of seitan. Just make sure your sauces and coatings are also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts: The Future (And Fun!) of Vegan Chicken Wings
In a world where food is as much about experience as nutrition, vegan chicken wings hit a sweet (and spicy) spot. They’re flavorful, fun to eat, and inclusive. Whether you’re diving into a plate at a vegan chicken wings restaurant or whipping up your own vegan chicken wings recipe at home, you’re part of something bigger—something compassionate, creative, and deliciously satisfying.
So go ahead. Roll up your sleeves. Get saucy. And savor every plant-powered bite.
If you’re looking for more plant-based comfort food ideas, don’t miss Homexan’s full guide to vegan pantry essentials. It’s packed with expert picks, shopping tips, and ingredient swaps that’ll make your kitchen a whole lot greener.