I have to editorialize by stating that I'm a big fan of soy chicken substitutes! As such, I love all these recipes, so they are in no particular order. Mock chicken can be wonderfully sneaky, as it lends itself well to satisfying - sometimes even fooling- the staunchest meat-eaters. From deep-fried soy chicken nuggets to soothing and traditional vegetarian "chicken" soup, going vegetarian doesn't have to mean giving up some of your favorite dishes.
1. Vegetarian Mock Chicken Salad
Made with vegetarian chicken-style deli slices, this soy chicken salad recipe, pictured, is full of flavor and looks gorgeous served on a bed of crisp green lettuce. Or, make into a sandwich by serving on toasted bread or a soft roll. Most vegetarian deli slices are made with a combination of soy and wheat gluten.
2. Tofu Orange Chicken
Like Asian-style orange chicken? Try this vegetarian tofu version with all the same yummy flavors. You could also try this recipe with chunks of fried seitan for a chewier vegetarian faux chicken recipe. Delish!
3. Breaded Tofu Nuggets
A lower fat version of the deep-fried seitan recipe above, soy chicken nuggets are relatively low in fat and healthy enough to eat every day. Kid-friendly tofu nuggets are reminiscent of chicken nuggets and can be dipped in ketchup, barbecue sauce or ranch dressing. About.com readers have rated this recipe five stars.
4. Vegetarian "Chicken" Noodle Soup
This recipe is simmered to create a full-flavored and satisfying broth. As nostalgia-inducing as the real thing. This vegetarian soy chicken soup recipe is low in fat and still great for curing colds!
