Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe

There's something utterly satisfying about biting into a warm, melty Chicken Parmesan Slider, where crispy chicken meets gooey mozzarella, all tucked into soft, buttery buns. The tangy marinara sauce, combined with the perfect crunch of golden breading, makes each bite a delightful explosion of flavors.

The first time I made these sliders was for a game day party, and they were a huge hit! What was supposed to be a casual snack quickly turned into the star of the evening. Since then, these sliders have become a go-to for gatherings, or even just a fun family dinner. They're quick to make, and you can prep them ahead of time for easy entertaining.

Ready to dig into this irresistible recipe? Let’s talk about why you’ll love these Chicken Parmesan Sliders!

Why You'll Love These Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite finger food. These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are packed with everything you love about the classic Italian dish, in a portable, bite-sized form.

First off, these sliders are incredibly easy to make. You can have them prepped and ready to bake in under 20 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. The assembly is simple, yet the results are restaurant-quality.

They’re also an absolute crowd-pleaser. Everyone, from picky kids to adults with refined palates, will love the combination of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It's comfort food at its finest, but with a fun twist.

Another reason to love these sliders is their versatility. They work as a hearty appetizer, a main dish for dinner, or a potluck favorite. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your taste – think different sauces, cheeses, or even gluten-free options!

Last but not least, they’re perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch in advance and keep them ready for quick lunches or a stress-free dinner. You can even freeze them and reheat for those days when you’re craving something warm and comforting.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for these Chicken Parmesan Sliders are simple and easy to find. Let’s break down each one and see what makes this dish so special.

Slider Buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns work best here. Hawaiian rolls are a favorite choice because they complement the savory flavors beautifully. You can use classic slider buns or even mini ciabatta rolls for a rustic touch.

Chicken: I recommend using breaded chicken tenders or chicken cutlets. You can either make your own or use store-bought, which saves time. If you’re making homemade, a mix of panko and grated Parmesan in the breading gives an extra crunch.

Marinara Sauce: The sauce is the heart of this dish. Use a high-quality store-bought marinara, or better yet, make your own if you have time. It should be rich, tangy, and full of flavor. If you like a little spice, try a marinara with a hint of crushed red pepper.

Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives the sliders that melty, gooey factor. If you prefer, you can use shredded mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and provolone for more depth of flavor.

Butter & Garlic Mixture: Brushing the buns with melted butter infused with minced garlic and dried Italian herbs takes these sliders to the next level. It adds a savory, aromatic finish that ties everything together.

You’ll also need a baking dish or sheet pan, foil, and a brush for the butter mixture. Let’s get cooking!

How To Make These Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Creating these Chicken Parmesan Sliders is a breeze. Here's how to do it, step by step.

Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using frozen breaded chicken tenders, cook them according to the package instructions. For homemade, coat your chicken cutlets in seasoned flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat in a panko-Parmesan mixture. Fry until golden brown and crispy, or bake for a healthier option.

Next, slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Keep the bottom half in a large baking dish and set the top half aside. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of the buns. Make sure every bun has a bit of sauce so that each bite is full of flavor.

Place the cooked chicken on top of the sauce. You may need to cut the chicken pieces to fit each slider bun. Spoon more marinara sauce over the chicken, but don’t drown them – just enough to keep them moist and flavorful. Layer slices of mozzarella over the top until everything is covered.

Cover with the top half of the buns, and brush the butter mixture over the buns. To make this, combine melted butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. This adds an incredible aroma and gives the sliders a golden, flavorful finish as they bake.

Bake the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the buns are golden brown. Cover with foil for the first 10 minutes to prevent the buns from browning too quickly, then uncover to let them crisp up.

Once they’re ready, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This ensures that the cheese has set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve hot and watch them disappear!

Storage Options

If you have any leftovers (which isn’t likely!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.

Refrigerate: Place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven until the cheese is melted again.

Freeze: You can also freeze these sliders! Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the buns from getting soggy. Microwaving is convenient but can make the bread chewy, so use it only if you’re in a hurry.

Variations and Substitutions

These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce, or use spicy breaded chicken for a fiery version. You can even add sliced jalapeños for extra heat!

Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the top before baking.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider buns and breaded chicken to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance. The taste and texture will still be fantastic.

Veggie Version: For a vegetarian twist, use crispy eggplant slices instead of chicken. Bread and bake the eggplant the same way you would the chicken, and layer it with marinara and cheese.

Sauce Switch-Up: Try using a basil pesto instead of marinara for a fresh, herby flavor. Or, add a dollop of Alfredo sauce for a creamy, indulgent slider.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these sliders your own. Who knows? You might just stumble upon your next family favorite. Enjoy!

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