Chicken Parm Recipe With Vegan Cheese Made Easy

If you’re craving the classic comfort of chicken Parmesan but want to keep things dairy-free or vegan-friendly, this Chicken Parm recipe with vegan cheese is your new go-to. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust, layered with a rich marinara sauce and topped with melty, savory vegan cheese that perfectly mimics the traditional mozzarella and parmesan flavors.

This recipe is perfect for those who love Italian cuisine but are avoiding dairy for health or ethical reasons.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress even the most devoted cheese lovers.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with pasta, salads, or crusty bread. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful chicken parm with a vegan twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of chicken Parmesan without the dairy. The use of vegan cheese ensures it’s accessible to those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply experimenting with plant-based cooking.

Why it stands out:

• Crispy, flavorful breaded chicken that stays juicy inside
• Rich, homemade marinara sauce bursting with herbs and freshness
• Melty vegan cheese that replicates the gooey, golden top layer
• Simple, easy-to-find ingredients and minimal fuss
• Perfect for meal prepping or a cozy dinner

This dish brings together comforting textures and classic Italian flavors, all while being mindful of dietary preferences. If you love recipes like these, don’t miss the Pcos Chicken Recipes for more wholesome chicken dishes.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 2 large plant-based eggs (or flax eggs: 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water)
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast (adds cheesy flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded vegan mozzarella cheese (brands like Daiya or Follow Your Heart work well)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil for frying

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish or oven-safe skillet
• 3 shallow bowls or plates (for flour, egg, breadcrumbs)
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional, to flatten chicken)
• Tongs or spatula
• Wire rack or paper towels (for draining)

Instructions

1. Prep the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, place them between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Prepare the breading stations: In one shallow bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the plant-based eggs (or flax eggs). In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere well.
4. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble the dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over each piece.
6. Add the vegan cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded vegan mozzarella over each chicken breast. Optionally, add a little extra nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegan cheese has melted and is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to your breadcrumb mixture to give a subtle smoky or spicy kick.

Variation: Try substituting the chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a fully vegan twist that’s just as satisfying.

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to adapt this recipe.

Homemade marinara: If you have time, simmer canned crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, olive oil, and herbs for a fresh sauce that elevates the dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chicken parm pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Classic spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, and fresh parsley
• A crisp mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Garlic roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans
• Warm, crusty bread for mopping up extra sauce

For a lighter alternative, try serving with Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe, which complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This chicken parm recipe with vegan cheese is a wonderful way to enjoy a beloved Italian classic without dairy. By using plant-based cheese and a flavorful breadcrumb coating, you get all the satisfying textures and tastes that make chicken Parmesan such a comfort food favorite.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this dish offers a delicious, approachable option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Preparing this meal is straightforward and adaptable, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Explore more creative recipes like this one to keep your dinner routine exciting and inclusive.

For more hearty, wholesome recipes, try the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Chicken Parm Recipe with Vegan Cheese”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A delicious twist on classic chicken parmesan using vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. Crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted vegan cheese.”, “prepTime”: “PT20M”, “cookTime”: “PT30M”, “totalTime”: “PT50M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts”, “1 cup all-purpose flour”, “2 large flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water)”, “1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs”, “1 tsp garlic powder”, “1 tsp dried oregano”, “1/2 tsp salt”, “1/2 tsp black pepper”, “1 1/2 cups marinara sauce”, “1 1/2 cups shredded vegan mozzarella cheese”, “2 tbsp olive oil”, “Fresh basil leaves for garnish”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mix flaxseed meal and water to make flax eggs; set aside.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Combine flour, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Dip chicken breasts in flour mixture, then flax eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Place chicken in a baking dish; spoon marinara sauce over each piece.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Top each chicken breast with shredded vegan cheese.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bake in oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Garnish with fresh basil before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “400 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “35 g”, “fatContent”: “15 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “25 g”}}