Vegan Spicy “Chicken” Fried Jackfruit
A Delicious Air Fryer Dinner Recipe
If you’ve ever bitten into crispy fried chicken and loved the crunchy coating, juicy interior, and bold spices — this Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit will blow your mind. Jackfruit is famous for its meaty texture, making it the perfect plant-based substitute for chicken. When seasoned properly, breaded generously, and cooked in the air fryer, it transforms into a crispy, spicy, finger-licking masterpiece.
This recipe is 100% vegan, healthier than deep-fried versions, and incredibly satisfying. The air fryer delivers crunch without excess oil, while the spicy marinade ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, game nights, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent but plant-based.
Why Jackfruit Works So Well
Young green jackfruit (in brine, not syrup!) has a neutral flavor and fibrous texture that mimics shredded chicken. When pressed, marinated, and coated, it absorbs spices beautifully and crisps up like magic.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the “Chicken” Base
- 2 cans (400 g each) young green jackfruit in brine or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spicy Marinade
- 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (soy or almond)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (sriracha, buffalo, or chili garlic)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Crispy Breading
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Spicy Glaze
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Jackfruit
Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Using your hands, gently squeeze out excess moisture. Trim off the hard seed cores if needed.
Shred each piece slightly with your fingers so it resembles pulled chicken — but don’t overdo it. You want chunky pieces for maximum bite.
Toss lightly with olive oil and set aside.
2. Make the Spicy Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together plant milk, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
The vinegar curdles the plant milk slightly, creating a vegan “buttermilk” that helps the coating stick and adds tang.
Add the jackfruit to the marinade, mix well, cover, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Prepare the Breading Station
In a separate large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, turmeric, and salt.
This seasoned breading is the key to a crispy, spicy crust — just like fried chicken.
4. Bread the Jackfruit
Remove jackfruit from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
Toss each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks. For extra crunch, dip again briefly into the marinade and coat a second time with flour.
Place breaded pieces on a tray while you finish the batch.
5. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange jackfruit pieces in a single layer — don’t overcrowd.
Spray the tops lightly with oil.
Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, spray again, then cook another 8–10 minutes until golden, crispy, and sizzling.
Repeat in batches if necessary.
6. Optional Spicy Glaze (Highly Recommended!)
For that classic spicy fried chicken vibe, mix hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and maple syrup.
Brush or drizzle over hot jackfruit right after air frying. The glaze clings beautifully to the crispy coating and adds irresistible heat.
How to Serve It
This dish is insanely versatile. Serve it:
- As a main dish with vegan coleslaw and roasted potatoes
- In sandwiches with pickles and vegan mayo
- In tacos with shredded lettuce and lime
- On salads for a spicy protein boost
- With waffles for a vegan chicken & waffles moment
Tips for the Best Results
- Use young green jackfruit in brine, never syrup
- Squeeze out moisture well — dryness = crispiness
- Double coat for extra crunch
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer
- Adjust spice levels to your heat tolerance
Flavor Variations
🔥 Nashville-Style Hot
Add extra cayenne and brush with chili-oil glaze.
🍋 Spicy Lemon Pepper
Add lemon zest and cracked black pepper to the breading.
🌮 Mexican-Inspired
Use chipotle powder and cumin, serve with avocado crema.
🍯 Sweet-Heat
Increase maple syrup in glaze for sweet-spicy balance.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days
- Reheat in air fryer at 180°C for 5 minutes
- Avoid microwaving — it softens the crust
Nutrition Highlights
- High in fiber
- Cholesterol-free
- Lower fat than deep-fried versions
- 100% plant-based
- Packed with flavor without guilt
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Spicy Chicken Fried Jackfruit proves that plant-based food can be just as bold, crispy, and satisfying as the original. With its crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and fiery flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that makes even meat-lovers do a double take.