Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe

There's something undeniably irresistible about these Chicken Parmesan Sliders. Imagine layers of crispy, golden breaded chicken, gooey melted mozzarella, and a generous spread of tangy marinara sauce, all sandwiched between soft, buttery slider buns. Just thinking about it makes your mouth water!

I first made these sliders for a game day gathering, hoping for a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish. It turned out to be such a huge hit that everyone was coming back for seconds and thirds. Even my pickiest eater couldn't get enough! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a fun weeknight dinner, these sliders will have you savoring every bite.

Why You'll Love These Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Get ready to fall head over heels for these Chicken Parmesan Sliders. They're everything you love about the classic Italian dish, but in a convenient, handheld form.

First off, these sliders are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of hands-on time, you'll have a hot, cheesy meal that's perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simply satisfying your family on a weeknight.

The combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The crispy chicken, savory marinara, and melted cheese create a comforting, mouthwatering bite every time. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a touch of Parmesan on top, and you’ll elevate these sliders to a whole new level.

They're also incredibly versatile. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them for later, or customize them to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a bit of heat with red pepper flakes or a lighter version with baked chicken, these sliders can be adapted to any taste.

Plus, they're perfect for any occasion. From casual get-togethers and birthday parties to game day celebrations, these Chicken Parmesan Sliders are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these delicious Chicken Parmesan Sliders lies in the quality and simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Slider Buns are essential for these sandwiches. Soft Hawaiian rolls or brioche buns are my favorites because they have a hint of sweetness that complements the savory chicken and marinara. Be sure to toast them lightly to keep the buns from getting soggy under the sauce.

Breaded Chicken forms the hearty base of these sliders. You can use frozen breaded chicken tenders or cutlets for convenience, or make your own by breading and frying thin chicken cutlets. If you prefer a healthier option, use baked or air-fried chicken.

Marinara Sauce adds that signature tangy flavor. Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own if you have a bit of extra time. For a more robust taste, opt for a sauce with roasted garlic or a hint of spice.

Mozzarella Cheese is the star of the show when it comes to melting. Shredded mozzarella works well, but for the ultimate cheesy experience, use fresh mozzarella slices. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses also works beautifully.

You may also need butter and garlic to brush on top of the buns before baking. This simple addition gives the sliders a golden, flavorful finish that takes them over the top.

How To Make These Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Creating these Chicken Parmesan Sliders is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the steps to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using frozen breaded chicken, bake or air-fry it until golden and cooked through. While the chicken cooks, cut your slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the rolls attached. Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.

Next, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the bottom half of the buns. Once the chicken is cooked, cut it into smaller pieces to fit onto each bun. Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the marinara, making sure each slider has a good piece of crispy chicken.

Top the chicken with shredded mozzarella or slices of fresh mozzarella. Don’t be shy with the cheese – you want that beautiful, melty layer! Place the top half of the slider buns over the chicken and cheese.

In a small bowl, melt some butter and mix in minced garlic and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of the buns. This will give them a deliciously golden crust and add extra flavor.

Cover the sliders with foil and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to toast the tops of the buns. When they're done, let the sliders cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), these Chicken Parmesan Sliders store well. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, though the buns may not stay as crispy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sliders. Wrap them individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, and they'll taste as delicious as the day you made them.

Variations and Substitutions

These sliders are highly adaptable, and you can make plenty of variations to suit your taste.

• Healthier Option: Swap out the fried chicken for grilled or baked chicken. It’s still delicious but a bit lighter. You can also use whole wheat slider buns for a healthier base.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or drizzle some spicy buffalo sauce over the chicken.
• Different Cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns and breaded chicken to accommodate dietary restrictions. Make sure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for breaded eggplant or plant-based chicken alternatives. You’ll still get that crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness.

The beauty of this recipe is that you can tailor it to your preferences. So don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. I hope you enjoy these Chicken Parmesan Sliders as much as my family and friends do. Let me know your favorite variations – I’d love to hear how you made them special!

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