These Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and a sprinkle of garlic. They’re super tasty and perfect for a party!
Making these sliders is a breeze! Just bake them until they’re golden and bubbly, then enjoy them warm. I can never eat just one – they’re too good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness, which balances the savory chicken and cheese perfectly. If you can’t find them, any soft dinner rolls will work. Just avoid very crusty bread for the best texture.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but you can also use leftover chicken or poach chicken breast for a fresh option. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or cauliflower!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara sauce saves time, but if you have homemade sauce, definitely use it! For those who prefer a spicy twist, a marinara that has a bit of heat works great too.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic here, but you could mix in provolone or even some pepper jack for a spicy kick. Parmesan adds a nice touch of nutty flavor, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano if you have that on hand!
How Do I Make Sure the Sliders Stay Moist?
Keeping your sliders from drying out is crucial for that delicious bite. The key is to use enough sauce and spread it evenly. Here’s how to ensure moist sliders:
- Combine your chicken thoroughly with marinara to coat every bit of meat.
- Brush the tops of buns with the garlic butter mix; it adds moisture and flavor.
- Cover them with foil when baking at first, then uncover to let the tops crisp up.
Following these steps will guarantee you keep that delightful gooeyness throughout every slider!
Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls or similar soft rolls)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you should have a delicious batch of Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the sliders bake evenly and get nice and golden on top.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a medium bowl, add the cooked shredded chicken and pour in the marinara sauce. Mix them together well so that every piece of chicken is coated evenly with that delicious sauce.
3. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally, but keep them connected as a full block. Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread the chicken and marinara mixture evenly over the bottom buns, ensuring every slider is nicely filled. Then, sprinkle both the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
5. Top with the Other Half of Buns:
Place the top half of the buns over the cheese layer. This will create a lovely sandwich that you can pop in the oven!
6. Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs. Mix well, and then generously brush this mixture over the tops of the slider buns for added flavor.
7. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the assembled sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This helps keep them moist.
8. Crisp Them Up:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the buns turn a beautiful golden brown.
9. Final Touches:
Once they are out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the sliders for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Serve:
Cut between each slider to separate them, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders with friends and family!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Sliders?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding it. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or using the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Prepare the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even eggplant. Just make sure to adjust seasonings and sauces to your liking for a delicious vegetarian version!
