When I first decided to experiment with a plant-based diet, one of the foods I missed the most was the classic Cordon Bleu. But what if I told you that you could recreate this indulgent dish without any meat or dairy? Enter my Elegant Vegan Cordon Bleu with Crispy Breadcrumbs! This recipe features tender seitan or tofu, layered deliciously with dairy-free cheese and vegan deli slices, all enveloped in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust. The heavenly aroma wafting from the oven as it bakes is enough to make your mouth water.
Perfect for special occasions or just a comforting dinner at home, this dish impresses both vegans and non-vegans alike. I love serving it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or tangy coleslaw—it truly elevates the experience. So, if you’re ready to break free from the fast-food routine and impress your friends and family with something elegant yet simple, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful Vegan Cordon Bleu adventure!
Why is this Plant-Based Cordon Bleu so special?
Indulgent, yet healthy: You can enjoy the classic taste of Cordon Bleu without the guilt.
Crispy goodness: The golden breadcrumb coating provides the perfect crunch that everyone craves.
Flavor explosion: Layered with savory vegan deli slices and creamy dairy-free cheese, every bite is a delight.
Customizable: Explore variations like adding herbs or going gluten-free, making it your own masterpiece.
Quick to make: Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish comes together effortlessly.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for vegans or meat-lovers, this recipe guarantees smiles all around!
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Ingredients
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For the Main Filling
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Gardein’s Chick’n Scallopini – Primary protein source; swap with tofu or tempeh for variety.
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Tofurky Slices – Provides a savory “ham” flavor; any other vegan deli meat can be used as a substitute.
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Vegan Swiss Cheese (Daiya) – Adds a creamy texture; feel free to experiment with different vegan cheese varieties for a unique taste.
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For the Coating
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Vegan Mayonnaise – This binding agent helps the breadcrumbs stick; aquafaba can be used for a lighter alternative.
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Dijon Mustard – Contributes a tangy kick; any mustard works, just avoid sweet varieties.
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Just Egg – Ensures a crispy breading; mix flaxseed meal and water for a vegan alternative.
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Panko Breadcrumbs – Essential for a crispy surface; use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
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For Baking
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Oil spray – Spritz on before baking for enhanced browning; optional, but contributes to a crunchy crust.
This Plant-Based Cordon Bleu brings all the joy of the classic dish right to your table with delightful textures and flavors!
How to Make Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
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Prep Protein: Thaw the Gardein Chick’n Scallopini overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
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Layer Ingredients: Take two pieces of the thawed chick’n and place a slice of Tofurky and a slice of Daiya cheese in between, creating a delightful sandwich that’s packed with flavor.
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Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, mix vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Generously brush this mixture on both sides of your chick’n sandwich to help the coating stick.
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Bread the Sandwich: Dip your entire sandwich into Just Egg, coating it thoroughly, then roll it in Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered for that perfect crunch.
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Bake: Place the breaded sandwiches on a baking sheet. Secure with toothpicks if needed and lightly spray with oil. Bake for 20 minutes, flip them over, and continue baking for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
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Serve: Once baked, let them cool slightly, then enjoy hot with additional vegan mayonnaise and mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
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Thaw Properly: Ensure your Gardein Chick’n is fully thawed to promote even cooking throughout the dish.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Place the sandwiches spaced apart on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring a crispy coating.
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Check for Doneness: Watch for a golden brown color; overbaking can dry out the chick’n, ruining that tender core that makes this plant-based cordon bleu so delightful.
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Creative Coating: For extra flavor, mix herbs or spices into the Panko breadcrumbs before coating your sandwich; it adds a personal twist to your dish.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy immediately after baking for the best texture; reheating can lose the crispiness that makes this dish shine.
What to Serve with Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
Creating a memorable meal means pairing delightful flavors and textures that elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture slices through the crispy coating of the cordon bleu, making each bite indulgent and comforting.
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Tangy Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, coleslaw adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors, brightening up your plate.
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Roasted Asparagus: Lightly charred with a hint of garlic, asparagus lends an elegant touch and a burst of freshness to the meal.
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Side Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette brings a fresh balance to the heartiness of the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any delicious sauces left on the plate.
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Savory Gravy: Drizzling a rich, plant-based gravy over your cordon bleu introduces an extra layer of flavor that everyone will adore.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc harmonizes beautifully with the vegan dish, enhancing the experience with its refreshing notes.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light vegan chocolate mousse offers a delightful finish that beautifully contrasts with the savory course.
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Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing fruit sorbet is a quick, light alternative that cleanses the palate after your rich meal.
Each of these pairings enhances the beautiful plant-based cordon bleu experience, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable meal!
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish—these variations will tantalize your taste buds and make this recipe uniquely yours!
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Herbed Crust: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs into the Panko for a fragrant twist. A touch of rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile remarkably.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of heat. This variation is perfect for those who crave a little spice in their meals!
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Gluten-Free Version: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters. It retains the same crispy goodness, minus the gluten!
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Stuffed Style: Instead of layering, create a pocket in the chick’n for stuffing with the cheese and deli slices. This method allows for a generous filling that oozes with every bite.
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Nutty Coating: Blend ground nuts like almonds or walnuts into the breadcrumbs for added crunch and a nutty flavor. It brings a delightful texture contrast to the crispy exterior.
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Air-Fryer Option: Prepare this recipe in an air fryer for a healthier version. It cooks to perfection with less oil while maintaining that irresistible crunch!
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Citrus Twist: Add fresh lemon or lime zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a refreshing tang. The citrus will brighten the overall flavor and keep things vibrant!
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BBQ Alternative: Swap out the Dijon mustard for your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flare. It’s a fun twist that adds a new depth to your meal.
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Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate ingredients like roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes as part of the filling. It transforms the dish into a Mediterranean delight bursting with flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Plant-Based Cordon Bleu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sandwiches (layering the chick’n, Tofurky, and Vegan Swiss Cheese) up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating, ensuring they don’t dry out. The coating mixture of vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard can also be prepared ahead, stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply bread the sandwiches (dipping in Just Egg and rolling in Panko breadcrumbs) and bake as directed. This easy prep means you can enjoy a delicious, gourmet meal any night of the week without the fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
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Freezer: Freeze the uncooked, breaded sandwiches on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
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Reheating: For optimal results, reheat baked leftovers in the oven. Microwaving may lead to a soggy texture, so avoid this method if possible.
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Wrap Tips: If freezing, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your Plant-Based Cordon Bleu stays delicious!
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select the right vegan cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking vegan cheese, look for brands that specifically offer meltability and a creamy consistency, such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart. You want something that will provide that gooey, cheesy texture; check ingredients for cashew or coconut bases, which often melt beautifully. Avoid cheese alternatives that are too firm or crumbly.
How can I store leftover Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This reheating method will help to retain that delightful crunch, while microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I freeze the Plant-Based Cordon Bleu? What’s the best method?
Certainly! You can freeze the uncooked, breaded sandwiches. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first. After they are frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time for the perfect crispy finish.
What should I do if my coating isn’t sticking properly?
Very! If you’re finding the coating isn’t sticking well, double-check that you’re generously applying the vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard mixture. A great tip is to ensure your sandwiches are evenly coated with the Just Egg before rolling them in breadcrumbs. If stuck using too much liquid, let them chill slightly in the fridge before baking to help the coating set.
Are there any allergen considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! While this recipe is vegan, it’s essential to check for gluten if you’re using traditional Panko breadcrumbs. For gluten-free options, be sure to choose certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify that any other packaged ingredients are also free from gluten, like the vegan deli slices. Always read the labels carefully if you’re cooking for someone with allergies.
Can I customize the fillings for this Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
The more the merrier! You can easily tweak the filling to suit your taste. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even fresh spinach for an extra veggie boost. You could also try different flavor profiles, like using nut-based cheeses or unique deli meats to create your very own signature version of this delightful vegan dish!
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu: Crispy, Cheesy Delight Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw the Gardein Chick’n Scallopini overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C).
- Take two pieces of thawed chick’n and layer a slice of Tofurky and a slice of Daiya cheese in between.
- In a small bowl, mix vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Brush this mixture on both sides of your chick’n sandwich.
- Dip your sandwich into Just Egg, coating it thoroughly, then roll it in Panko breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded sandwiches on a baking sheet. Secure with toothpicks if needed and lightly spray with oil. Bake for 20 minutes, flip and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly, then enjoy hot with additional vegan mayonnaise and mustard sauce on the side for dipping.