Jackfruit "Chicken" Sandwich

Jackfruit "Chicken" Sandwich is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by PlantbasedBrandon on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min

Cost: $24.90 total, $6.23 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (20 oz each) Young Green Jackfruit in Brine (drained, rinsed, seeds and tough core removed, shredded by hand)
  • 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas (drained, rinsed)
  • 0.25 cup Chickpea Flour (sifted)
  • 1 tablespoon White Miso Paste (Aqua Faber brand if available)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 tablespoon Nutritional Yeast
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for frying, high smoke‑point oil preferred)
  • 0.25 cup Hot BBQ Sauce (homemade) (see description for quick recipe)
  • 4 pieces Vegan Sandwich Buns (soft, toasted before serving)
  • 4 large leaves Lettuce Leaves (optional, for crunch)
  • 1 medium Tomato (sliced, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Jackfruit

    Drain the canned jackfruit, rinse under cold water, then remove all seeds and tough core pieces. Shred the flesh with your hands or two forks until it resembles pulled chicken.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Simmer Jackfruit with Flavor

    Place the shredded jackfruit in a large pot, add enough water to cover, pour in 2 teaspoons of Better Than Bouillon No‑Chicken base, add 2 bay leaves, and bring to a gentle simmer.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: low simmer

  3. Process Chickpeas

    While the jackfruit simmers, drain and rinse the canned chickpeas. Pulse them in a food processor 2‑3 times until coarsely mashed, being careful not to turn them into a puree.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Combine Main Mixture

    Transfer the simmered jackfruit (drained) to a large mixing bowl. Add the processed chickpeas and mix until evenly incorporated.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Add Binding Ingredients

    In a second bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, white miso paste, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Add a splash of water (about 2‑3 tbsp) to create a thick paste.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Incorporate Binding Mix

    Pour the miso‑spice paste over the jackfruit‑chickpea mixture and stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Form Patties

    Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ½‑inch thick.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Coat Patties Lightly

    Lightly dust each patty with a little extra chickpea flour on both sides; this helps create a crisp crust.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Fry Patties

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat until shimmering. Add the patties and fry 4‑5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  10. Glaze with Hot BBQ Sauce

    Remove patties onto a paper‑towel‑lined plate. Brush each patty generously with the homemade hot BBQ sauce while still hot.

    Time: PT2M

  11. Assemble Sandwiches

    Toast the vegan buns lightly. Place a glazed patty on the bottom bun, add lettuce leaf and tomato slice if desired, then top with the bun crown.

    Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
12g
Fiber
8g

Dietary info: Vegan, Plant‑based, Gluten‑Free (if using GF buns), High Protein

Allergens: Soy, Wheat

Last updated: April 21, 2026

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Jackfruit "Chicken" Sandwich

Recipe by PlantbasedBrandon

Crispy, plant‑based chicken‑style patties made from shredded jackfruit, chickpeas, miso, and spices, fried to golden perfection and glazed with a smoky hot BBQ sauce. Served on soft vegan buns with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying sandwich.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
30m
Prep
38m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 18m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$24.90
Total cost
$6.23
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Removing seeds and tough core from jackfruit to avoid chewy bits
  • Simmering jackfruit with broth for flavor without over‑cooking
  • Ensuring the binding mixture is thick enough to hold the patty together
  • Frying at the correct temperature to achieve a golden, crispy crust

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; keep a lid nearby and never leave unattended.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot skillet.
  • Be careful when removing bay leaves from the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of vegan chicken sandwiches in American plant‑based cuisine?

A

Vegan chicken sandwiches have become a staple of modern American comfort food, reflecting the rise of plant‑based eating and the desire for familiar textures without animal products. They often draw inspiration from classic fried chicken sandwiches while using legumes and jackfruit to mimic the chewiness of meat.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of plant‑based chicken‑style sandwiches in the United States?

A

In the South, vegan chicken sandwiches are frequently served with spicy hot sauce and pickles, while West Coast versions may feature avocado, sprouts, and a lighter vinaigrette. The Midwest often prefers a thick, buttery bun and a smoky BBQ glaze similar to the one in this recipe.

cultural
Q

How is a vegan chicken sandwich traditionally served in American diners?

A

At classic diners, a vegan chicken sandwich is typically presented on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a creamy vegan mayo or tangy BBQ sauce, accompanied by a side of fries or coleslaw.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are vegan chicken sandwiches associated with in American culture?

A

They are popular at casual gatherings such as picnics, backyard barbecues, and sports‑watch parties, offering a crowd‑pleasing option for both vegans and omnivores.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients give this vegan chicken sandwich its unique flavor compared to other plant‑based alternatives?

A

The combination of shredded jackfruit for texture, chickpeas for protein, white miso for umami, and smoked paprika for depth creates a flavor profile that closely mimics seasoned fried chicken while staying entirely plant‑based.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan chicken sandwiches from jackfruit and chickpeas?

A

Common errors include not drying the jackfruit enough, using too much water in the binding paste, and frying at a temperature that is too low, which leads to soggy, falling‑apart patties.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use miso paste instead of soy sauce as the primary umami ingredient?

A

Miso paste provides a richer, fermented depth and a slightly thicker consistency that helps bind the patty, whereas soy sauce is thinner and can make the mixture overly wet.

technical
Q

Can I make the vegan chicken patties ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, shape the patties, place them on a parchment sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the vegan chicken patties are done cooking?

A

The patties should be golden‑brown on both sides, with a crisp outer crust and a tender, slightly moist interior that holds together when sliced.

technical
Q

How do I know when the vegan chicken patties are fully cooked?

A

After frying, the patties should reach an internal temperature of about 165°F and feel firm to the touch; the crust will be visibly browned and crisp.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel PlantbasedBrandon specialize in?

A

PlantbasedBrandon focuses on easy, approachable vegan recipes that use everyday ingredients, often recreating classic comfort foods with a plant‑based twist.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel PlantbasedBrandon's approach to vegan comfort food differ from other vegan cooking channels?

A

PlantbasedBrandon emphasizes minimal equipment, quick prep times, and budget‑friendly ingredients while still delivering bold flavors, whereas many channels prioritize gourmet techniques or specialty products.

channel

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Jackfruit "Chicken" Sandwich