Chicken Parmesan Sliders

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering, you’ve found it with these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines the classic Italian-American flavors we all love into a fun, bite-sized treat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just feeding the family on a busy weeknight, these sliders will surely be the star of the show.

What makes Chicken Parmesan Sliders so special is their balance of gooey melted cheese, savory chicken, and zesty marinara sauce, all nestled in soft rolls. They’re quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for everything from casual dinners to game-day snacks. Trust me, once you serve these sliders, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious sliders ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors packed into each slider.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and simply bake when you’re ready!
• Flavorful goodness: Each bite bursts with cheesy, savory goodness that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Chicken Parmesan Sliders, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these goodies and get ready for a delicious adventure!

For the Sliders

• 12 Kings Hawaiian rolls
• 1 pound chicken tenders (cooked)
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)

For the Topping

• ¼ cup (57g) butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

Variations

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan Sliders is their flexibility! You can easily tailor them to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or grilled vegetables instead of chicken for a lighter option.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce if you want a little heat!

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is essential because you want your sliders to bake evenly and come out warm and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Split your Kings Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom half in a prepared baking dish. Setting aside the top half keeps everything neat until it’s time to assemble.

Step 3: Layer on the Cheese and Chicken

Now it’s time to build those layers! Start by placing 6 slices of provolone cheese on the bottom buns. Then add your cooked chicken tenders followed by marinara sauce, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil. Each layer adds its own deliciousness!

Step 4: Add the Top Buns

Carefully place the top half of the buns over your layered masterpiece. This creates those tasty sliders we’re all dreaming about!

Step 5: Mix Up Your Topping

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic, sea salt, parsley, and grated parmesan cheese. This flavorful mixture adds an irresistible golden crust on top.

Step 6: Brush It On

Brush this buttery goodness generously over the top of your sliders—don’t skimp here! It’s what gives them that amazing flavor and texture.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes. This helps steam everything together so that your cheeses melt beautifully.

Step 8: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 20 minutes, remove the foil and let them bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until those tops turn golden brown. The sight alone will make your mouth water!

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Finally, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders. Serve warm and watch as everyone digs in!

These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Creating the perfect Chicken Parmesan Sliders is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your sliders come out absolutely delicious!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and mozzarella can make a significant difference in flavor. They add vibrant taste and texture that frozen or pre-packaged options can’t match.

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure your chicken tenders are cooked just right before assembling. Overcooked chicken can become dry, while perfectly cooked chicken keeps your sliders juicy and tender.

• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the cheeses meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful bite.

• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms. This allows you to personalize the sliders to suit your tastes or spice things up!

• Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for brushing on top of the rolls. It adds a rich flavor that makes all the difference when it comes to that golden brown finish.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Presentation is key when it comes to serving your Chicken Parmesan Sliders! Here are some creative ideas to make them as appealing as they are tasty.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the Italian flavor.

• Parmesan Shavings: Lightly sprinkle some freshly shaved parmesan on top right before serving for an elegant touch and added umami flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread complements the flavors of the sliders beautifully. You can easily make it by spreading garlic butter on slices of baguette and toasting them until golden.

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances out the richness of the sliders, providing a refreshing counterpoint that’s both easy and enjoyable.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil, salt, and herbs, then roasted until caramelized makes for a colorful and nutritious side that pairs perfectly with your meal.

• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent side dish that kids love! They’re fun finger food that complements any slider beautifully.

Enjoy making these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress your family and friends at any gathering. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring a delightful dish is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them.
• Wrap the assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Remove any wrapping from the sliders.
• Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Parmesan Sliders that might help you:

Can I use different cheese for Chicken Parmesan Sliders?

Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella give a classic taste, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique twist.

How do I make Chicken Parmesan Sliders ahead of time?

You can assemble the Chicken Parmesan Sliders and store them unbaked in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!

Are Chicken Parmesan Sliders kid-friendly?

Yes! These sliders are a hit with kids due to their cheesy goodness and fun size. They’re perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

What sides pair well with Chicken Parmesan Sliders?

Consider serving these sliders with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! They bring a delightful Italian-American flavor to any gathering and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, these sliders are a fantastic choice. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations—you might inspire someone else in their kitchen journey!