Crispy Tofu Chicken Parm Bakes (Printable)

Crispy breaded tofu topped with marinara and melted cheese, baked until golden and bubbly

# What you'll need:

→ Tofu

01 - 2 blocks extra-firm tofu (14 oz each), pressed and sliced into ½-inch thick slabs

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - ¾ cup grated Asiago cheese
04 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
05 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Coating

08 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 large eggs, beaten

→ Topping

10 - 2 cups marinara sauce
11 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish

→ Serving

14 - Cooked spaghetti or crusty bread, optional

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
02 - Press tofu blocks for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice each block into 4 equal slabs approximately ½-inch thick.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with beaten eggs, and third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Asiago cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
04 - Coat each tofu slice in flour, dip into beaten egg, then press firmly into breadcrumb-Asiago mixture, ensuring all sides are thoroughly covered.
05 - Place breaded tofu slices on prepared baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil.
06 - Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
07 - Remove from oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each tofu piece. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
08 - Return to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
09 - Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately, optionally over cooked spaghetti or with crusty bread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Nutrient-Dense: Provides 29g of protein per serving.
  • Texture: The panko-Asiago coating provides a crunch that perfectly contrasts the tender tofu.
  • Easy Clean-up: Prepared on a single baking sheet for a simple weeknight dinner.
02 -
  • Pressing Tofu: Do not skip the 15-minute press; removing water is essential for the tofu to absorb the coating and become crispy.
  • Flipping: Ensure you flip the slabs halfway through the initial bake to get even browning on both sides.
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