Best Vegan Chicken Cutlets Recipe for Crispy Delight

If you’ve ever craved the crispy, juicy goodness of chicken cutlets but want to keep it plant-based, you’re in for a treat. Our best vegan chicken cutlets recipe delivers that satisfying crunch and rich flavor without any animal products.

Made from wholesome ingredients and seasoned to perfection, these cutlets are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or a main course paired with your favorite sides. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just exploring meat alternatives, this recipe offers an easy, delicious way to enjoy the classic comfort food you love.

Get ready to impress family and friends with a dish that’s both kind to animals and bursting with flavor!

This recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. From the crispy coating to the tender inside, every bite is a delight.

Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, these vegan chicken cutlets have an incredible texture that mimics the real thing — crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. Thanks to a combination of vital wheat gluten and chickpea flour, you get that perfect chewiness without compromising on health.

Secondly, the seasoning blend is wonderfully savory and versatile, allowing you to easily tweak the flavors to your liking. Whether you want them mildly spiced or packed with herbs, this recipe has you covered.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that uses pantry staples and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy cooks. If you love recipes like our Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe or crave creative vegan meals such as Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, this vegan chicken cutlet recipe fits right into your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups vital wheat gluten – the main protein base for the cutlets
• ¼ cup chickpea flour – adds binding and a slight nuttiness
• 1 tsp garlic powder – for savory depth
• 1 tsp onion powder – balances the flavor
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – gives a subtle smoky richness
• ½ tsp dried thyme – adds herbal notes
• ½ tsp black pepper – for gentle heat
• ¾ cup vegetable broth – to hydrate the dough
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – adds umami and saltiness
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for moisture and flavor
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for the crispy coating
• ½ cup unsweetened plant milk (almond or soy) – to dip the cutlets
• Salt, to taste
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil works well)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin or clean bottle (optional, for flattening)
• Plate lined with paper towels
• Baking sheet (optional, for oven finishing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and black pepper.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir with a spoon until a dough begins to form. Once it’s too stiff to stir, knead the dough in the bowl for about 2-3 minutes until elastic and slightly sticky.
4. Shape the cutlets: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. On a clean surface, use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten each portion into a thin, oval-shaped cutlet about ¼ inch thick.
5. Set up breading station: Pour the plant milk into a shallow dish and the panko breadcrumbs into another plate. Dip each cutlet first into the plant milk, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere well.
6. Heat oil: Warm about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
7. Fry the cutlets: Carefully place the breaded cutlets into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
8. Drain excess oil: Transfer the fried cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb extra oil.
9. Optional finishing: For extra crispness and to ensure they’re cooked through, you can finish the cutlets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
10. Serve warm: Enjoy your vegan chicken cutlets immediately or store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips & Variations

For the crispiest cutlets, do not skip the panko coating and keep the oil temperature steady during frying.

To make these gluten-free, substitute vital wheat gluten with a combination of cooked and mashed chickpeas and gluten-free flour blends, though texture will differ.

Add some nutritional yeast to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy, savory kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for unique flavor profiles.

If you prefer baked cutlets, spray them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Try pairing these cutlets with a tangy vegan gravy or dipping sauce like vegan ranch or spicy sriracha mayo for an extra layer of indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

*Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and cooking methods.

Serving Suggestions

These vegan chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile. Serve them atop a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a light meal or pile them into a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo for a satisfying lunch.

They also pair wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even crispy fries. For a Mediterranean twist, serve alongside hummus and tabbouleh.

If you’re in the mood for an Italian-inspired dinner, try them with a vegan marinara sauce and pasta, similar to the flavors in our Kosher Lasagna Recipe.

Conclusion

This best vegan chicken cutlets recipe is a fantastic addition to any plant-based kitchen. It combines simple pantry ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Whether you’re catering to vegans, vegetarians, or simply want to reduce meat consumption, these cutlets never disappoint.

The crispy exterior, tender inside, and savory seasoning make these cutlets a crowd-pleaser time and again. Plus, you can customize the flavor profile or cooking method to suit your preferences.

Don’t forget to check out other creative recipes like our Magic Dough Recipe or the vibrant Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe to round out your meal planning.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, cruelty-free satisfaction of homemade vegan chicken cutlets. Happy cooking!

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