Best Vegan Chicken Scallopini Recipe for Easy Dinner Ideas

If you’ve been longing for a comforting Italian classic but want to keep it entirely plant-based, this best vegan chicken scallopini recipe is exactly what you need. Traditionally made with tender chicken cutlets, scallopini is known for its delicate texture and flavorful, lightly sauced finish.

Our vegan version brings all the charm without any animal products, using expertly seasoned and breaded plant-based “chicken” that crisps up beautifully in a pan. This dish is perfect for family dinners, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a hearty yet wholesome meal.

With a luscious lemony sauce, capers, and fresh herbs, this recipe captures the essence of scallopini while being entirely cruelty-free and packed with flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights, but elegant enough for special occasions.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about plant-based cooking, you’re going to love this recipe’s balance of texture and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chicken scallopini recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy, tender, and tangy elements that bring traditional Italian flavors to your plate without any compromise. The plant-based chicken alternative absorbs the bright lemon sauce beautifully, topped with briny capers that elevate every bite.

Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also nutritious, satisfying, and versatile. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Italian comfort food without dairy or meat.

Plus, you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it a great choice for busy cooks craving something special.

Finally, you’ll love how this recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to a fresh green salad, making it a complete and balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz vegan chicken cutlets (store-bought or homemade seitan or soy-based strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (to make vegan buttermilk)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, check vegan-friendly)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• 3 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large shallow bowls or plates for dredging
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Whisk
• Spatula or tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Serving plate or platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegan buttermilk: In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk with the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
2. Mix the dry dredging ingredients: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the breadcrumb coating: Place the breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish. This will be used to coat the vegan chicken cutlets.
4. Coat the vegan chicken: Dip each vegan chicken cutlet first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the vegan buttermilk, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
5. Heat the oil: In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
6. Fry the cutlets: Carefully add the breaded vegan chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the coating is golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Make the lemon sauce: Remove any remaining oil from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the vegan butter and let it melt over medium heat. Pour in the white wine or vegetable broth, scraping the pan bottom to loosen any flavorful bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
8. Add lemon and capers: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and capers. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 2 minutes to marry the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Combine and garnish: Return the vegan chicken cutlets to the pan, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
10. Serve: Transfer the vegan chicken scallopini to a serving platter, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

For the crispiest coating, use panko breadcrumbs and make sure the oil is hot before frying.

If you want to make your own vegan chicken cutlets, seitan or tempeh sliced thinly work wonderfully well. Marinate them in lemon juice and garlic for extra depth.

You can swap the white wine for vegetable broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic option, or add a splash of white balsamic vinegar to brighten the sauce.

To add richness, stir in a tablespoon of vegan cream or cashew cream into the sauce just before serving.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a more complex flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chicken scallopini pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian touch, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes.

Light steamed green beans or sautéed spinach add a fresh, vibrant note to the meal.

Consider pairing it with a crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to echo the brightness of the sauce. For a heartier option, serve with a side of herb-infused polenta or your favorite pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs.

Don’t forget a crusty vegan bread to soak up the delicious lemon-caper sauce. And if you love exploring more vegan comfort food, check out this Julie Marie Eats Recipes for more inspiration!

Conclusion

This vegan chicken scallopini recipe perfectly balances crispy texture with a tangy, savory lemon sauce that will satisfy anyone craving Italian comfort food. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a plant-based meal that feels indulgent without any animal products.

Whether you’re cooking for vegans or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe is easy to make, delicious, and impressive.

Not only does it come together quickly on busy nights, but it also elevates your dinner table with minimal effort. The combination of fresh herbs, capers, and lemon guarantees a fresh and bright flavor profile every time.

For more creative vegan recipes that transform everyday cooking into a culinary adventure, try this Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or dive into the magic of dough with the Magic Dough Recipe. Happy cooking!

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