Chickenless Crispy Tenders

I bought these for the first time for a recent brunch gathering: the omnis were having chicken and waffles, and I wanted to provide a #veganchicken alternative for myself and one friend (as well as anyone else curious enough to try something new; as we all know, #veganisnotscary!) Admittedly, bringing something I hadn’t personally vetted before was a bit of a risk, but I’m happy to report that these vegan #chickentenders were a hit! I baked them in my countertop toaster oven; there were 9 pieces in the bag, and somehow they all fit on the tray. They were on the small size for tenders — about the length of my index finger, and perhaps twice the width — and that helped them to cook through quickly. It took just 15 minutes at 425°F, with a flip around 10 minutes in . . . good for the #lazyvegan or anyone overwhelmed by holiday happenings. For my part, I was attempting a probably too-ambitious recipe that day and already running late, so it was nice to have a mindless, set-and-forget food cooking in the background. I liked that the breading crisped nicely without drying out the #fakemeat inside — it still retained a hint of juiciness, along with a tamari-like flavor. The slightly stringy texture was on par with other chick’n products I’ve sampled. While it’s not most convincing or all-around best tender I’ve sampled, I thought these were tasty enough and affordable at $3.79 for the bag. I will get them again, though probably not on a regular basis.

When I first went veg many years ago, I didn't have access to any products like this!! I love that we have so many great alternatives and now there is no excuse to not be vegan! #veganisnotscary These tenders were crispy and delicious and will definitely satisfy your chicken tenders craving! #veganisnotscary #veganin2023 #traderjoes

trader joe’s at it with all the vegan goodies ✨ these are pretty good! popped them in the air fryer & they turned out all crispy & nice 👌

This is a great snack or meal addition especially when you don’t have much time to cook. I baked these in the oven and they came out nice and crispy. They are a bit higher in sodium for my taste but still enjoyable. #veganisnotscary #traderjoes #veganchicken

No flavor. Good crisp. Will try to use them on a sandwich with other things to provide flavor so they don't go to waste. Wouldn't buy again.