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Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

A fiery vegan version of Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs—packed with smoky flavor, sticky sweetness, and bold heat that satisfies every craving guilt-free.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 325
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Vegan “Chicken” Thighs:
  • 2 cups seitan or soy protein chunks
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
For the Spicy BBQ Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp tomato ketchup
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke optional but powerful
For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
  • Lemon wedges for that sassy zing

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Vegan Protein: Mix seitan with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Let it rest 10 minutes while you feel fabulous.
  2. Make the Sauce: Combine ketchup, maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, chili flakes, garlic, onion powder, and liquid smoke. Whisk like you mean it.
  3. Sear the “Thighs”: Heat a grill pan. Add seitan pieces and cook 5 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp.
  4. Coat in Sauce: Pour your spicy BBQ sauce over the seitan. Stir until it’s sticky, glossy, and dangerously addictive.
  5. Caramelize: Let it simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken. The aroma alone deserves an applause.
  6. Serve & Slay: Garnish with herbs, squeeze a lemon, and pair with roasted veggies or corn on the cob.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 325
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Iron: 22%
  • Vitamin C: 25%
  • Calcium: 14%
  • Vitamin A: 28%
  • Magnesium: 16%

Additional Notes/Tips

  • Add a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling fearless.
  • Use tofu for a softer texture—great for when you’re feeling “delicate.”
  • Don’t skip liquid smoke—it’s the drama this dish deserves.
  • Pair with vegan coleslaw or grilled corn for a full BBQ queen moment.
  • Leftovers? Wrap in a tortilla for next-day sass in a bite.