Vegan Parmesan Chicken

Crispy Vegan Parmesan “Chicken” – A Comforting Plant-Based Classic

If you’re craving a hearty, crispy, and flavorful meal, this Vegan Parmesan Chicken will hit the spot! Made with marinated tofu, a crunchy herbed panko coating, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is both satisfying and protein-packed. It’s the perfect meatless alternative to a classic Vegan Parmesan Chicken, offering all the flavors and textures you love—without the animal products!

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Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Flavorful – Thanks to a perfectly seasoned panko crust, this tofu “chicken” gets a golden-brown crunch with every bite.
• High in Protein – Tofu is packed with plant-based protein, making this dish both filling and nourishing.
• Easy to Make – While it looks impressive, this dish comes together with simple ingredients in under an hour.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make extra and reheat for a quick, delicious meal later in the week!
•  Family-Friendly – Even non-vegans will love this dish—pair it with pasta or zucchini noodles for a wholesome meal.

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How the Recipe Comes Together

This recipe starts by pressing and marinating the tofu in vegan chicken broth for extra flavor. After marinating, the tofu is coated in a crispy breading mixture made from panko, garlic powder, onion powder, nutritional yeast, and vegan Parmesan. The tofu is then baked until golden brown, topped with your favorite high-quality tomato sauce and Vegan Parmesan Chicken, and baked for a few more minutes until everything is warm and melty. Serve it up with pasta or zucchini noodles, and enjoy!

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Substitutions & Variations

• Tofu Alternative – If you don’t have tofu, try using store-bought vegan chicken cutlets or even cauliflower steaks for a different take.
• Gluten-Free Option – Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Cheese Alternatives – Use your favorite vegan mozzarella or vegan Parmesan for that extra cheesy, melty goodness.
• Different Serving Suggestions – Serve with classic spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or even on a sandwich for a vegan Parmesan sub!
• Air Fryer Option – Instead of baking, cook the breaded tofu in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

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FAQ

1. What’s the best tofu for this recipe?

This recipe uses firm or extra-firm tofu that has been pressed for at least 20 minutes. Avoid silken tofu—it’s too soft and won’t hold up to the breading.

2. Do I have to marinate the tofu?

Marinating the tofu in vegan chicken broth adds a lot of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still get delicious results.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the tofu and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

4. What’s the best tomato sauce to use?

Look for a high-quality marinara with simple, clean ingredients. If you want to make your own, a simple mix of crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil works beautifully.

5. How do I get the crispiest crust?

For the best crunch, make sure to bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flip the tofu halfway through. You can also lightly spray the breaded tofu with oil before baking to enhance crispiness.

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Final Thoughts

This Vegan Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate plant-based comfort food! Whether you serve it with pasta, zucchini noodles, or on a sandwich, it’s a dish that delivers on flavor, texture, and nutrition. Try it out, and don’t forget to sprinkle on extra vegan Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch! for anyone who loves a rich, tangy, and creamy topping without dairy. Try it on your favorite baked goods and enjoy the deliciousness! Have you tried this frosting? Let us know in the comments how you used it!

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