If you’re like me and love a recipe that’s simple to make but delivers a huge flavor punch, then you’re going to adore these Chicken Parmesan Sliders. I made these last weekend, and they were a total hit! Imagine crispy chicken, tangy marinara, gooey melted cheese, and soft slider buns coming together in each bite.
They’re perfect for game days, gatherings, or even a casual dinner. What I love most is how easy they are to customize, depending on what’s in your kitchen. Buckle up because this recipe is as good as it sounds.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Sliders
To make these sliders unforgettable, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a key role in bringing the flavors together.
- 12 Slider Rolls (Hawaiian Sweet Rolls) – Their soft, slightly sweet texture complements the savory ingredients perfectly. Avoid regular crusty buns, as they can overpower the dish.
- 24 ounces Breaded Chicken Tenders – Pre-cooked frozen tenders work perfectly here. You can also bake or air fry them for extra crispiness.
- 1 cup Marinara Sauce – Use a thick marinara to prevent soggy buns. I recommend spreading it evenly to coat every bite.
- 12 slices Mozzarella Cheese – Melty, gooey mozzarella binds the sliders together beautifully. You can also use provolone for a sharper taste.
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty layer of flavor on top.
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter, Melted – Great for brushing the tops of the buns.
- 2 cloves Garlic, Minced – Enhances the buttery topping with its aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning – Adds a herby kick to the buttery mix.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Basil, Chopped (optional) – Perfect for garnishing, offering color and freshness.
Note: These ingredients make about 12 sliders, ideal for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a meal. Adjust quantities if you’re cooking for a smaller or larger crowd.
Variations
Want to switch it up or make this recipe fit certain dietary needs? Here are some alternatives you can try:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken tenders with breaded eggplant or tofu slices.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-loaded version.
- Spicy Twist: Mix red chili flakes into the marinara or add sliced jalapeños.
For another creamy and indulgent dish, check out this chicken stroganoff recipe that’s perfect for dinner.
Cooking Time
When it comes to time, these sliders are impressively quick to prepare. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe hassle-free, you’ll need the following equipment:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Perfect size for assembling and baking sliders.
- Sharp Knife – For slicing slider rolls evenly.
- Pastry Brush – To coat the rolls with buttery garlic goodness.
- Small Mixing Bowl – To mix the garlic butter ingredients.
- Oven – 350°F works best for even melting and browning.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Here are the simple steps to make delicious Chicken Parmesan Sliders:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the frozen chicken tenders according to the package instructions until they’re crispy and golden. While they’re baking, slice the slider rolls horizontally in half and separate the tops from the bottoms.
Step 2: Layer the Base
Place the bottom halves of the rolls in your greased baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella slices evenly across the rolls to create a cheesy base. This ensures every bite has cheese melted into the bread.
Step 3: Add the Marinara
Spread half of your marinara sauce over the cheese, making sure it covers each roll. It’s best to use the back of a spoon to evenly distribute it.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken
Top each roll base with a piece of crispy chicken. If the tenders are too large, cut them into slider-friendly sizes. This helps them fit the roll perfectly.
Step 5: Add More Cheese and Rolls
Pour the remaining marinara over the chicken layer. Next, add the rest of the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce. Place the top halves of the rolls over the layers to seal everything in.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with this mixture. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top for an extra punch of flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the tops of the rolls turn golden brown and crispy. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my kitchen to yours, here are my favorite tips for absolute slider success:
- Toast the Bottom Halves: Lightly toast the bottom rolls before adding the toppings to prevent sogginess.
- Mix the Marinara with the Chicken: This ensures the chicken gets extra coated in flavor.
- Use Shredded Cheese: Although sliced mozzarella works well, shredded mozzarella melts more evenly across the sliders.
- Cool Slightly Before Cutting: Allow the sliders to cool for 3–5 minutes after baking. This prevents the cheese from slipping out when you slice.
You might also enjoy this crock pot chicken pot pie recipe for another comforting, gluten-free meal idea.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Serve your sliders warm straight from the oven for the best experience. They’re perfect as is, but consider adding a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. For presentation, sprinkle a few basil leaves on top, and don’t forget to place the sliders on a platter with tongs for easy serving at a party. Want to pair them with something? A simple green salad or baked potato wedges make excellent companions.
Nutritional Information
Each slider is loaded with flavor and offers satisfying nutrition. Here’s a quick glance:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 26g
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance but leave off the garlic butter topping until just before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezing: Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why I’m obsessed with these sliders, and I think you will be too:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, easy steps, and minimal prep make this perfect for any skill level.
- Versatility: Customize ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves sliders, and this recipe is always a hit at gatherings.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.
- Comfort Food Classic: Combines all the comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan in handheld form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results
Avoid these pitfalls to create the best chicken sliders every time:
- Skipping the Topping: The buttery, garlicky topping adds so much flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Using Too Much Sauce: Overloading the marinara can make the sliders soggy. Stick to about a cup.
- Not Covering While Baking: Foil ensures the cheese melts before the tops brown too much.
- Undercooking the Chicken: Always follow chicken package instructions to ensure it’s fully cooked.
With these tips and steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible Chicken Parmesan Sliders that’ll wow your family and guests alike! Enjoy every cheesy, crispy, savory bite. If you enjoy hearty meals like this, you can also explore other chicken recipes for more inspiration.
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the frozen chicken tenders according to the package instructions until they’re crispy and golden. While they’re baking, slice the slider rolls horizontally in half and separate the tops from the bottoms.
- Place the bottom halves of the rolls in your greased baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella slices evenly across the rolls to create a cheesy base. This ensures every bite has cheese melted into the bread.
- Spread half of your marinara sauce over the cheese, making sure it covers each roll. It’s best to use the back of a spoon to evenly distribute it.
- Top each roll base with a piece of crispy chicken. If the tenders are too large, cut them into slider-friendly sizes. This helps them fit the roll perfectly.
- Pour the remaining marinara over the chicken layer. Next, add the rest of the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce. Place the top halves of the rolls over the layers to seal everything in.
- Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with this mixture. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top for an extra punch of flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the tops of the rolls turn golden brown and crispy. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.
Notes
- Toast the Bottom Halves: Lightly toast the bottom rolls before adding the toppings to prevent sogginess.
- Mix the Marinara with the Chicken: This ensures the chicken gets extra coated in flavor.
- Use Shredded Cheese: Although sliced mozzarella works well, shredded mozzarella melts more evenly across the sliders.
- Cool Slightly Before Cutting: Allow the sliders to cool for 3–5 minutes after baking. This prevents the cheese from slipping out when you slice.
