Indulge in the Best Vegan Chicken Parm Sandwich: Crispy, Cheesy & Totally Satisfying

Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary experience! This vegan chicken parm sandwich isn’t just a meal; it’s a supremely satisfying masterpiece, bursting with bold, Italian-inspired flavors. We promise that with every bite, you won’t even remember the meat, as crispy plant-based chicken cutlets are generously piled with perfectly melted vegan cheese, rich marinara sauce, and fresh basil leaves. It’s an absolute dream for anyone craving classic comfort food with a compassionate twist.

If your quest is for a sandwich that truly stands out—one that is both hearty and incredibly filling—then look no further. This vegan chicken parm sandwich is absolutely loaded with deliciousness from top to bottom. From the perfectly crispy, golden-brown pan-fried vegan chicken cutlets to the creamy, plant-based provolone (or mozzarella) and the delightfully crusty bread, every component comes together to create an unforgettable taste sensation. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a craving waiting to happen, a meal you’ll want to enjoy time and time again!

For this recipe, I highly recommend using my homemade vegan chicken to craft the cutlets. While there are many excellent store-bought plant-based chicken options available, I always return to this particular recipe because it consistently delivers the ideal flavor and texture that truly elevates this sandwich. Beyond its superior taste, making your own vegan chicken is also incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without breaking the bank. It adds an authentic touch that truly sets this chicken parm apart.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Vegan Chicken Parm Sandwich Recipe

This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s an experience designed to delight! Here are compelling reasons why this vegan chicken parm will become a staple in your kitchen:

• It’s a Rare Vegan Treat: While the availability of vegan burgers and plant-based staples has grown exponentially, finding a truly exceptional vegan chicken parm sandwich at restaurants can still be a challenge. This recipe empowers you to create that elusive, satisfying dish right in your own home, offering a gourmet experience that caters perfectly to plant-based diets. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic without compromise!
• Incredibly Filling and Flavorful: Make no mistake, this isn’t a light snack; it’s a robust, full-fledged meal packed into a convenient handheld form. Each bite is an explosion of savory plant-based chicken, tangy marinara, gooey melted cheese, and fresh basil, ensuring deep satisfaction. It’s literally the full experience of a vegan chicken parmesan dinner, perfectly nestled within a crusty roll.
• Remarkably Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to use your favorite brand of melty plant-based cheese, whether it’s provolone, mozzarella, or a blend. If you’re short on time, swap homemade crispy chicken cutlets for high-quality store-bought ones, completely skipping the dredging step. Or, if you love to cook from scratch, whip up your own homemade marinara sauce for an extra layer of freshness. There are countless ways to customize this recipe to perfectly suit your preferences and pantry!

Essential Notes on Ingredients

Precision in ingredients is key to achieving that perfect vegan chicken parm sandwich. Below, we dive into the role of each component, along with helpful tips and substitutions.

For exact quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down.

For the Plant-Based Chicken Cutlets:

• Flour: All-purpose flour is typically used to create the initial dry coating for the vegan chicken, helping the “egg” wash and breadcrumbs adhere properly. This first layer is crucial for achieving a truly crispy crust.
• Vegan Egg Substitute: This acts as the binder for the breading. You have excellent options here: you can easily make a flax egg (a simple mixture of ground flaxseed and water) or opt for a convenient store-bought egg replacer. Both work wonderfully to create that sticky surface for the breadcrumbs.
• Plant-Based Milk: To thin out the egg substitute and enhance the coating, use any unflavored and unsweetened variety of plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. The neutral flavor ensures it won’t interfere with the Italian seasonings.
• Breadcrumbs: Standard breadcrumbs work well, but for an extra crispy texture, consider using Panko breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and provide a more pronounced crunch, which is fantastic for a chicken parm.
• Grated Vegan Parmesan: This essential ingredient infuses a savory, umami depth into the breading. You can either use homemade vegan Parmesan or a good quality store-bought version.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning is vital for flavoring the breading. These spices are the heart of Italian cuisine and ensure every bite of your vegan chicken is rich and aromatic.
• Vegan Chicken: If you’re using my recommended homemade vegan chicken recipe, remember to slice the breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner, more manageable cutlets. Alternatively, you can substitute with three store-bought vegan chicken breasts, preparing them according to package instructions if they require a different initial step.
• Canola Oil: Or another neutral-flavored, high-smoke-point oil suitable for frying, such as vegetable oil. You’ll need enough to create a ½-inch depth in your skillet, ensuring the cutlets fry evenly and achieve a beautiful golden-brown crispness.

For Assembling the Ultimate Sandwich:

• French Baguette: The perfect vessel for this robust sandwich! A crusty French baguette, sliced into six pieces, provides the ideal texture and structure. If baguettes aren’t available or preferred, hearty sourdough sandwich rolls make an excellent alternative.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil brushed onto the bread before toasting adds richness and helps achieve that golden, slightly crisp exterior.
• Garlic Powder: Sprinkled onto the olive oil-brushed bread, garlic powder imparts a subtle yet irresistible aromatic flavor that complements the Italian theme perfectly.
• Vegan Provolone: Known for its excellent melting capabilities and mild, creamy flavor, vegan provolone slices are ideal for this sandwich. If you can’t find provolone, vegan mozzarella slices are a fantastic substitute, offering a similarly gooey and satisfying melt.
• Marinara Sauce: A key component! Use your favorite brand of marinara sauce, or whip up a batch of homemade. Ensure it’s warmed gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the sandwiches; warm sauce helps everything come together beautifully.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves are a non-negotiable finishing touch. Their bright, peppery, and slightly sweet aroma cuts through the richness of the cheese and marinara, adding a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Crafting Your Vegan Chicken Parm Sandwich: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these easy steps to create the most incredible vegan chicken parm sandwich you’ve ever tasted. Organization is key for a smooth process!

• Set Up Your Dredging Station: Begin by preparing three shallow bowls and arranging them side-by-side on your counter. In the first bowl, add your flour. In the second, whisk together the vegan egg substitute and plant-based milk until well combined. In the third bowl, thoroughly mix the breadcrumbs, grated vegan Parmesan, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This assembly line approach makes coating efficient and mess-free.
• Evenly Bread the Vegan Chicken: Take each vegan chicken cutlet, one at a time. First, dip it into the flour, ensuring it’s completely and evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, transfer it to the egg mixture, allowing it to be fully submerged and coated. Finally, place the cutlet into the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure a thick, even layer adheres to all sides. This careful coating is crucial for a perfectly crispy crust.
• Fry the Crispy Vegan Chicken: Heat enough canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat so that the oil reaches about ½ inch up the sides of the pan. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a tiny breadcrumb in—it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the breaded cutlets. Do not overcrowd the pan; leave plenty of space between each piece to ensure they fry evenly and maintain a crispy texture. You may need to fry in batches. Fry for approximately 3 minutes on each side, or until the breading turns a beautiful, crispy golden-brown. Once fried, transfer the “chicken” cutlets to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to absorb any excess oil.

• Toast the Bread to Perfection: Carefully slice each piece of French baguette (or sourdough roll) in half lengthwise. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of garlic powder over the oiled surfaces. Place the bread, cut-side-up, under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it, as broilers can toast quickly; remove the bread as soon as it turns beautifully golden brown and lightly crisp. Set aside.
• Melt the Vegan Cheese: Take your fried vegan chicken cutlets on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Place one slice of vegan provolone cheese directly over each cutlet. Return the baking sheet to the broiler for another 1-2 minutes. Again, watch carefully until the cheese is wonderfully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges. This creates that irresistible gooey texture crucial for a chicken parm.
• Assemble Your Glorious Sandwiches: Now for the grand finale! On the bottom half of each toasted baguette piece, place one cheesy vegan chicken cutlet. Generously spoon warm marinara sauce over the top of the chicken, allowing it to seep into the cutlet and mingle with the melted cheese. Finally, adorn each sandwich with three fresh basil leaves. Their vibrant green and aromatic flavor provide the perfect fresh counterpoint. Gently close the sandwiches, and prepare to devour!

Expert Tips for the Best Vegan Chicken Parm Sandwich

Achieving a truly outstanding vegan chicken parm sandwich is easy with a few key techniques:

• Ensure Even Coating for Crispy Perfection: The secret to that irresistible crunch lies in a thorough and even coating of each dredging ingredient. Each vegan chicken cutlet should be completely covered in flour, then egg substitute, and finally, breadcrumbs. Any bare spots will result in less crispiness and potentially a soggy texture. Take your time with this step to ensure maximum crispiness!
• Fry in Batches to Avoid Overcrowding: It’s tempting to try and cook all the cutlets at once, but resist the urge! Overcrowding the skillet will drastically lower the oil temperature, leading to steamed (rather than fried) and less crispy results. Fry the vegan chicken cutlets in batches, leaving plenty of space between each piece, to ensure consistent golden-brown crispiness.
• Press for a Panini-Style Experience: If you enjoy a denser, flatter sandwich reminiscent of a panini, you can lightly press these chicken parm sandwiches. Simply place the assembled sandwiches on a clean cutting board and, using another cutting board or a heavy cast-iron skillet, press down firmly for a minute or two. This helps meld all the layers together beautifully.
• Don’t Skimp on Warm Marinara: Using warm marinara sauce is a small detail that makes a big difference. It prevents the sandwich from getting cold too quickly and helps the cheese stay melty and gooey longer.
• Serve Immediately for Best Texture: While delicious, fried sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the assembly line. The crispiness of the chicken and the meltiness of the cheese are at their peak right after preparation.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: To make the cooking process smoother, measure out and prepare all your ingredients before you start. This mise en place approach will make assembling your dredging station and frying the cutlets much more efficient.

Exciting Variations to Customize Your Sandwich

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe completely gluten-free, simply swap out the standard flour and breadcrumbs for their gluten-free counterparts. When it comes to the vegan chicken, opt for gluten-free vegan chicken cutlets (please note that my homemade vegan chicken recipe does contain gluten). Finally, choose your favorite sturdy gluten-free bread or rolls to complete your delicious, worry-free sandwich.
• Amp Up the Spice Factor: If you love a little heat, there are several ways to make this sandwich spicy. You can add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes directly to your marinara sauce as it warms. Alternatively, swap out the regular marinara for a fiery spicy arrabbiata sauce for an intense, garlic-infused kick. A drizzle of chili oil over the finished sandwich also works wonders!
• Skip the Faux Chicken Entirely: Not everyone is a fan of vegan meat substitutes, and that’s perfectly fine! You can still enjoy a fantastic plant-based parm sandwich by replacing the vegan chicken with other hearty vegetables. Thick slices of portobello mushrooms, pan-fried or roasted until tender, make an excellent meaty alternative. Slices of eggplant or even zucchini, breaded and fried in the same manner as the chicken, also offer a delightful texture and flavor profile that works beautifully in this Italian-inspired sandwich.

Delightful Serving Suggestions

This substantial vegan chicken parm sandwich is a meal in itself, perfect for either lunch or dinner. However, pairing it with a complementary side can elevate your dining experience to a complete, restaurant-worthy feast:

• Comforting Soups: Serve alongside a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. The richness of the soup perfectly complements the Italian flavors of the sandwich, creating a classic pairing that’s incredibly comforting.
• Crispy Fries: A generous side of sweet potato fries offers a delightful contrast in texture and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory sandwich beautifully. You could also opt for classic crispy French fries.
• Fresh Salads: For a lighter, refreshing accompaniment, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette provides a welcome freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and marinara.
• Pasta Sides: A small side of lightly tossed pasta with a simple olive oil and garlic sauce, or even a bit of leftover marinara, can make this an even heartier Italian-inspired meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers offer a nutritious and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the Italian theme.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

While best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly save any leftover vegan chicken parm sandwiches for later. To maintain quality, store them properly. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, for the best results, I recommend deconstructing the sandwich. Heat the crispy vegan chicken cutlet (with melted cheese) and marinara sauce separately from the bread. You can warm the filling in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated, which helps keep the cutlet crispy. The bread can be quickly toasted or warmed just before assembly. You can also use a microwave, but for optimal texture, especially for the bread and cutlet, the oven method is preferred.

Can I Freeze This Recipe?

I generally do not recommend freezing these assembled vegan chicken parm sandwiches. The components, particularly the breaded vegan chicken and the baguette, tend to lose their optimal texture after freezing, thawing, and reheating. The chicken may become less crispy, and the bread can turn soggy. For the best experience, it’s always ideal to enjoy them fresh.

Explore More Delicious Vegan Sandwich Recipes

If you loved this vegan chicken parm sandwich, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of plant-based sandwiches offers a diverse range of flavors and styles to satisfy any craving. Discover your next favorite handheld meal:

• Vibrant Pinwheel Sandwiches
• Hearty Chopped Cheese Sandwich (Vegan Style)
• Fresh Caprese Sandwich with Aromatic Parsley Pesto
• Classic Vegan BLT Sandwich with Crispy “Bacon”
• Savory Vegan Pulled Mushroom Sandwiches

Enjoy, friends! We hope this vegan chicken parm sandwich recipe brings joy and incredible flavor to your kitchen. If you create this delicious dish, please share your culinary masterpiece with us! Snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram. We absolutely love seeing your creations! Additionally, we’d be thrilled if you could take a moment to leave a comment below and give the recipe a rating. Your feedback is invaluable and helps other home cooks discover this fantastic plant-based option. Thank you so much for your support!

Vegan Chicken Parm Sandwich

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Total Time: 30 minutes mins

This crispy chicken parm sandwich is supremely satisfying and packed with cheese, marinara, and bold Italian-inspired flavours. So delicious!

5 (from 1 rating)

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Ingredients

For the chicken:

• ½ cup flour, 60 grams
• 6 tablespoons vegan egg substitute, 92 grams (such as just egg or chickpea egg)
• 2 tablespoons plant-based milk, 30 ml
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs, 66 grams
• ¾ cup grated vegan Parmesan cheese, 75 grams
• ½ teaspoon salt, 3 grams
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 3 grams
• 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2.4 grams
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 5.5 grams
• 1 recipe Vegan Chicken, This should make 3 “chicken breasts”. Slice them in half lengthwise. You can use 3 store-bought vegan chicken breasts instead.
• Canola oil, for frying, enough to cover your pan with ½ inch oil

For the sandwiches:

• 1 French baguette sliced into 6 pieces, or 6 sourdough sandwich rolls
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, 89 ml
• 3 teaspoons garlic powder, 9 grams
• 6 slices vegan provolone
• 2 cups marinara sauce, warmed, 450 grams
• 18 basil leaves

Instructions 

• Arrange 3 shallow bowls next to one another. Add the flour to one. Whisk together the eggs and plant-based milk in another, and whisk together the breadcrumbs, vegan parmesan, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning in the 3rd.
• One at a time, dip each portion of chicken into the flour to coat it thoroughly, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumbs.
• In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, heat enough canola oil to go ½ inch up the sides of the pan. Add the breaded chicken pieces to the oil, leaving plenty of space between each piece (fry in batches if need be). Fry for 3 minutes on either side or until the breading gets nice and crispy golden-brown. Arrange the fried “chicken” pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Slice each baguette piece in half, lengthwise. Brush both cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Place the bread cut side up under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
• Place a slice of vegan provolone cheese on top of each portion of chicken. Broil for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Place 1 piece of chicken on the bottom half of each baguette piece and ladle marinara sauce over the top, add 3 basil leaves on each sandwich. Close the sandwiches.

Notes

To store: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also warm it up in the microwave; I recommend taking apart the sandwich and heating the filling separate from the bread.

To freeze: I don’t recommend freezing these chicken parm sandwiches. They won’t have the same texture after freezing, thawing, and reheating.

Calories: 528kcal, Carbohydrates: 60g, Protein: 17g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 12g, Cholesterol: 9mg, Sodium: 1479mg, Potassium: 445mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin A: 565IU, Vitamin C: 6mg, Calcium: 305mg, Iron: 5mg

Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.

Cuisine: American, Italian

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Author: Jessica Hylton