The Plant-Based Drumsticks Everyone’s Talking About
Everybody’s been making these viral vegan chicken legs, and honestly? We had to see what the hype was about. This version uses a creative mix of jackfruit, lion’s mane mushrooms, and chickpeas to create that shredded, meaty texture—then wraps it all in rice paper for a crispy “skin” moment.
What makes this recipe stand out is the bold seasoning and smoky-sweet BBQ finish. With spices, liquid smoke, and maple syrup layered in, these plant-based drumsticks bring real-deal flavor. Air-fried and brushed with barbecue sauce, they come out crispy on the outside and tender inside—proof that vegan comfort food can still give cookout energy.
Ingredients
For the “Chicken” Base:
- 2 cups young green jackfruit, rinsed and squeezed completely dry
- 1–1½ cups fresh lion’s mane mushrooms, shredded
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
For the Seasoning & Flavor:
- 1 tsp Tony’s seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- ½ tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
For the “Skin” & Finish:
- 4–6 sheets rice paper wrappers (for wrapping)
- Olive oil spray, generous coating
- ½ cup thick barbecue sauce (for glazing)
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Base
- Rinse and squeeze all excess water from the jackfruit.
- Shred it and repeat with the lion’s mane mushrooms.
- Combine in a bowl.
2. Make the Binder
- Blend rinsed chickpeas in a food processor until smooth.
- Add to the bowl with breadcrumbs, Tony’s seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, liquid smoke, and maple syrup.
3. Form the “Legs”
- Shape the mixture into drumstick forms.
- Wrap each one in softened rice paper, folding and pressing until sealed.
4. Air Fry
- Spray generously with olive oil.
- Air fry at 370°F for about 20 minutes until lightly crisp.
5. Add the BBQ Glaze
- Brush with barbecue sauce.
- Return to the air fryer for another 10–15 minutes.
6. Rest & Serve
- Let them cool slightly to firm up.
- Serve hot for that full BBQ-style vegan experience.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the jackfruit for a better texture.
- Use a rack in the air fryer if possible for extra crispiness all around.
- Don’t skip the liquid smoke—that’s what gives it that true cookout flavor.
- Double-wrap with rice paper if you want a thicker “skin.”
- Try different sauces—Buffalo, honey BBQ, or jerk for a remix.
About the Creator
This recipe is by Dominique, the creative behind @beedomonique. She’s known for innovative, flavorful plant-based dishes that push creativity in the kitchen while keeping comfort food at the center.
Dominique | @beedomonique