Classic Vegan Chicken Cutlet Recipe With The Goodness Of Veganism

Don’t have time to read the full blog post? JUMP TO THE RECIPE HERE!

Are you struggling to find a satisfying vegan alternative to chicken cutlets? Many plant-based recipes need to recreate the tender, juicy texture we crave. Yet, there’s hope. Dive into the world of vegan cooking with this homemade vegan chicken cutlet recipe.

It promises to mimic and enhance the classic experience with flavors and nutrients. Our guide will walk you through a simple yet effective process, using accessible ingredients to achieve the perfect meatless cutlet.

Your palate will thank you, and your body will appreciate the health benefits of a plant-based diet. Prepare to transform your vegan meals into delightful culinary adventures with every bite.

What Is Vegan Chicken Cutlet? 

A vegan chicken cutlet is a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken cutlets, designed to replicate the taste and texture of chicken without using animal products. It’s typically made from soy, wheat gluten (seitan), or pea protein, seasoned and shaped to resemble chicken.

These cutlets often include a blend of herbs, spices, and sometimes a breadcrumb coating to mimic the crispy exterior of fried chicken cutlets.

Vegan chicken cutlets are a great option for vegans, vegetarians, and those looking to reduce their meat consumption, offering a versatile and satisfying component in various dishes.

Fact– Did you know the first vegan chicken cutlet was developed in the early 1990s? It aimed to provide vegetarians with a nutritious and satisfying meat-free alternative.

Recipe Directions 

Prep The Tofu

• Freeze the package of tofu overnight.
• Thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 8 hours the next morning.
• Gently squeeze out excess water and press to make it sturdy yet spongy.

Marinate The Tofu

• Slice the thawed tofu longitudinally into three ½-inch thick rectangles.
• Prepare the marinade by mixing the chosen ingredients in a bowl.
• Lay the tofu slices in a large, shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
• Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for enhanced flavor.

Bread The Tofu

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Mix the bread crumbs with your cheesy garlic blend in a large casserole dish.
• Carefully lift each marinated tofu slice and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, brushing with marinade as needed to adhere to the crumbs.
• Ensure both sides of each tofu slice are well-coated.

Bake The Tofu

• Place breaded tofu cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
• Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each cutlet and continue baking for another 20 minutes.
• After baking, turn off the oven and let the cutlets rest inside for 10 more minutes to firm up.

Serve

• Serve the cutlets with a drizzle of lemon juice alongside pasta or a crisp salad.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

• Spicy Kick: Add some heat to your marinade with a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For an Asian twist, mix in some sriracha sauce.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture. Dried herbs work well, too, if fresh ones aren’t available.

• Nutty Crunch: Add crushed almonds or pecans to your breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch and a nutty flavor. This will also boost the protein content of your cutlets.
• Cheesy Delight: If you enjoy cheesy flavors, add nutritional yeast to the breadcrumb mix for a cheese-like flavor that remains vegan-friendly. Vegan parmesan can be used inside the breadcrumb mix and sprinkled on top before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: To accommodate those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Portobello Mushrooms: Thick and meaty, Portobello mushrooms make excellent substitutes in vegan recipes. They can be marinated and grilled or baked just like tofu cutlets.
• Eggplant: Sliced and seasoned well, eggplant can mimic the texture of meat when baked or fried. It’s a great option for adding body and flavor to plant-based dishes.
• Cauliflower: Cauliflower can be a delightful substitute when sliced into thick steaks and properly seasoned. Its firm texture holds up well to marinating, breading, and baking.
• Jackfruit: Jackfruit is a popular meat substitute in vegan cooking due to its texture, similar to that of shredded chicken. It works well in recipes that require a pulled or shredded texture.
• Tempeh: Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a firmer texture than tofu and a nuttier flavor, making it a robust substitute in vegan cutlet recipes.
• Chickpeas: Mashed chickpeas can be used to form patties or cutlets. They are a protein-rich option that pairs well with various seasonings and can be easily formed and cooked to create a satisfying texture.
• Seitan: If you’re not avoiding gluten, seitan is one of the best meat substitutes for vegan cutlets due to its dense, chewy texture that closely resembles meat.

Quick Tip– When preparing vegan cutlets, it’s important to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This ensures a firmer, more meat-like texture in the final dish.

Best Side Dishes

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and rich, these are a comfort food classic that beautifully complements the texture of vegan cutlets.
2. Quinoa Salad A light and nutritious option, quinoa salad with mixed vegetables and a lemony dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Green Beans Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans with a touch of garlic butter or a sprinkle of almonds offer a crisp side.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them a hearty side that stands up well to savory cutlets.
5. Sweet Potato Fries Baked sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries and add a sweet, crispy element to your meal.
6. Coleslaw A tangy and crunchy coleslaw can lighten up your meal and add a refreshing crunch.
7. Sautéed Spinach Quick and easy to prepare, sautéed spinach with garlic is nutritious and flavorful.

How To Serve?

• Presentation: Arrange the cutlets on a platter garnished with lemon wedges or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
• Accompaniments: Serve the cutlets with dipping sauces such as vegan aioli, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard sauce. These can be placed in small bowls alongside the cutlets for easy dipping.
• Side Dishes: Pair the cutlets with complementary side dishes. Consider a mix of textures and flavors, such as a creamy mashed potato, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables. This variety makes the meal more balanced and visually appealing.
• Portion Control: Serve each plate with one or two cutlets, depending on their size, alongside a generous helping of sides. This ensures each plate is well-proportioned and satisfying.
• Warm Service: Ensure the cutlets are served warm. If there’s a delay between cooking and serving, keep them in a warm oven covered loosely with foil to maintain their temperature without drying out.
• Final Touches: Before serving, add a drizzle of olive oil or freshly ground black pepper over the cutlets for flavor and a gourmet touch.
• Wine Pairing: If appropriate, offer a wine pairing. A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio typically pairs well with the delicate flavors of vegan chicken cutlets.

Quick Tip– To maximize flavor and texture, marinate your vegan chicken cutlets overnight. This allows the tofu to fully absorb the marinade, resulting in a richer taste and a more satisfying bite. It’s important to remember to turn the cutlets occasionally, ensuring even flavor distribution throughout the marinating process.

Storage & Make Ahead

Make-Ahead Preparation

• You can prepare the tofu cutlets in advance by following the marinating and breading steps and refrigerating them before baking. They can be stored this way for up to 24 hours, making it easy just to bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Refrigeration

• Any leftover cutlets can be refrigerated after baking. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Properly stored, they will last 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• For longer storage, vegan chicken cutlets can be frozen. It is best to freeze them after they have been baked and cooled. Wrap each cutlet in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing And Reheating

• When ready to serve, thaw the cutlets in the refrigerator overnight if they have been frozen. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until they are heated, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor better than microwaving.

Quick Reheating Tip

• If you’re in a hurry, cutlets can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. This method can add a nice crispness to the exterior. Just heat them for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.

Fact– Did you know that tofu, the main ingredient in vegan chicken cutlets, is rich in protein and calcium? It’s also a great option for those managing cholesterol levels.

Time-Saving Tips

Prep Ingredients In Advance

• Chop and prepare all your marinade ingredients the night before. This way, you can quickly mix them and start marinating the tofu as soon as you’re ready.

Use Pre-Mixed Seasonings

• Opt for pre-mixed seasonings or breadcrumb blends to eliminate the need to measure spices and herbs individually. This speeds up the breading process significantly.

Freeze And Thaw Tofu Ahead

• Freeze the tofu in advance and move it to the refrigerator the night before you use it. This ensures it’s properly thawed and ready for pressing and marinating.

Marinate Overnight

• Let the tofu marinate overnight. This enhances the flavor and means you can go straight to breading and cooking the next day without waiting.

Batch Cooking

• If your oven or pans allow, bake or cook multiple batches simultaneously. This way, you can prepare meals for several days or store extra servings in the freezer for later use.

Use A Food Processor

• If your recipe requires finely chopped ingredients for the marinade or coating, use a food processor to save time and ensure even consistency.

Clean As You Go

• Clean up your workspace and wash dishes while the cutlets are baking. This will reduce overall cleanup time after cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Use Instead Of Tofu For Vegan Chicken Cutlets?

In addition to tofu, seitan (wheat gluten) offers a chewy texture similar to meat. Portobello mushrooms or thick slices of eggplant are excellent whole-food alternatives. Young green jackfruit, which is shredded, is a great option for those preferring a shredded texture.

How Can I Ensure The Tofu Cutlets Don’t Fall Apart During Preparation?

To prevent tofu cutlets from breaking:

• Freeze and thoroughly thaw your tofu; this changes the texture, making it firmer.
• Press the tofu to remove as much water as possible before slicing and marinating.
• Handle the tofu gently during the marinating and breading processes.
• Use a spatula to flip the cutlets carefully while cooking.

Can I Make These Cutlets Gluten-Free?

Yes, to make gluten-free vegan chicken cutlets, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure any seasonings or marinade ingredients are gluten-free. If using seitan (which contains gluten), substitute with gluten-free tofu or another suitable vegan protein like textured vegetable protein (TVP).

How Can I Add More Flavor To Vegan Chicken Cutlets?

To enhance the flavor:

• Marinate the tofu for several hours or overnight to deepen the flavor absorption.
• Add umami-rich ingredients to your marinade, like soy sauce, nutritional yeast, or vegan Worcestershire sauce.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in your breading mixture.
• After baking, finish the cutlets with a light brushing of flavored oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

What Are Some Serving Suggestions For Vegan Chicken Cutlets?

Vegan chicken cutlets are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• It is the main protein in a classic cutlet setup with mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Sliced and used in wraps or sandwiches with greens and vegan mayo.
• Chopped and tossed into salads or pasta dishes.
• Served with steamed vegetables or a vegan cream sauce to enhance the dish.