Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining gooey cheese and flavorful chicken in a soft bun. Perfect for game nights, parties, or family gatherings, these sliders deliver all the savory goodness of traditional chicken parmesan in a fun and easy-to-eat format. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in just half an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires only basic kitchen skills and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of provolone, mozzarella, and marinara sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a cozy family dinner, these sliders fit right in at any gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the fun size of these sliders while getting their protein fix with the chicken.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it versatile for different palates.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Chicken Parmesan Sliders, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for butter
• Knife for slicing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows you to bake multiple sliders at once.
• Mixing bowl: This is essential for combining your butter topping ingredients effectively.
• Brush for butter: Using a brush helps evenly apply melted butter over the tops of the sliders for that perfect golden finish.

Ingredients

Chicken Parmesan Sliders give you that Italian-American flavor as an appetizer!

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

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready when your sliders are assembled.

Step 2: Prepare Your Rolls

1. Split your rolls in half, placing the bottom half in a prepared baking dish.
2. Carefully set the top half aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Top the bottom buns with:
1. 6 slices of provolone cheese.
2. Layer with cooked chicken tenders.
3. Add marinara sauce generously over the chicken.
4. Place fresh mozzarella slices on top.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil evenly over everything.

Step 4: Complete Assembly

Place the top half of the buns on top, covering all your tasty fillings.

Step 5: Make the Butter Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together melted butter with minced garlic, sea salt, parsley, and grated parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Brush on Butter Mixture

Brush the top of the rolls with your melted butter mixture generously.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F or until the cheese is hot and bubbly.

Step 8: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops of the sliders turn a delicious golden brown.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Remove from oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve warm! Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan Sliders as a delightful appetizer!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. These sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

With a Side of Marinara

• Serve extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This enhances the Italian flavors and adds moisture.

Pair with Garlic Knots

• Garlic knots make a great side dish. Their buttery, garlicky goodness complements the sliders perfectly.

Include Fresh Salad

• A light salad can balance the richness of the sliders. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Offer Pickles or Olives

• A platter of pickles or olives adds a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the sliders.

Serve with Chips

• Crispy potato chips provide a satisfying crunch. Opt for kettle-cooked chips for an extra bite.

How to Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sliders

To ensure your Chicken Parmesan Sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh basil and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t overcook chicken – Ensure your chicken tenders are cooked just right to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
• Let them rest – Allow the sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the cheese and makes them easier to slice.
• Experiment with cheeses – Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella and fontina for a unique flavor profile.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste before serving and adjust salt and garlic according to your preference for optimal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan Sliders

When serving Chicken Parmesan Sliders, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing pairs well with sliders.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing rich flavors.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – These crispy fries offer a hint of sweetness that balances the savory sliders beautifully.
4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers create a refreshing appetizer that’s easy to eat.
5. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with Italian dressing makes for a delightful side that echoes the flavors of the sliders.
6. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, making it a perfect contrast to the warm sliders.
7. Antipasto Platter – An antipasto platter with cured meats, cheese, and marinated vegetables offers variety and flavor.
8. Zucchini Chips – Baked zucchini chips provide a healthy alternative that’s crispy and fun to munch on alongside sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Parmesan Sliders can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Butter Mixture: Failing to brush the tops with the butter mixture can lead to dry sliders. Be sure to apply it generously for a golden finish.
• Overcrowding the Filling: Adding too much filling can make it hard to close the sliders. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect bites.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale bread or old cheese will affect flavor. Always opt for fresh rolls and cheese for the best taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Baking too long can dry out the sliders while not baking enough keeps cheese from melting. Keep an eye on them during baking.
• Serving Without Letting It Rest: Cutting into the sliders immediately after baking can cause fillings to spill out. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Parmesan Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Parmesan Sliders

• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Parmesan Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, being cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Chicken Parmesan Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What type of cheese works best in Chicken Parmesan Sliders?

Provolone and mozzarella are ideal choices due to their meltiness and flavor.

How do I customize my Chicken Parmesan Sliders?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers or swap marinara for pesto for a twist on flavor.

Are Chicken Parmesan Sliders kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Their fun size and cheesy goodness make them a hit with kids.

Can I use leftover chicken for these sliders?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect and adds even more flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a delightful combination of flavors that everyone loves. They work great as appetizers or even as a light meal. Consider customizing with your favorite toppings or sauces, making this dish truly your own!