These Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a fun twist on a classic! Juicy chicken is topped with tasty garlic butter and melty cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns. Yum!
Everyone loves a good sandwich, right? They’re perfect for game night or a cozy family dinner. I like adding a side of marinara for dipping—it’s like a mini party on my plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft, brioche-style buns are a personal favorite for their flavor and texture. If you can’t find brioche, you can use Hawaiian rolls or any soft dinner rolls!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the way to go here. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey cutlets can be a nice substitute.
Marinara Sauce: This adds rich flavor, but you can swap it for store-bought pizza sauce or even a homemade sauce if you have time. Tomato basil sauce works well too!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey stretch, but feel free to mix in some provolone or even cheddar to switch things up! For those avoiding dairy, try a plant-based cheese.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for Sliders?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial for juicy sliders. You want them golden on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Here’s an easy method:
- Slice your chicken breasts thinly or pound them for even cooking.
- Always season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for great flavor.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; this sears them nicely!
- Three to four minutes on each side usually does the trick, but always check they’re cooked through.
When resting, let them sit for a minute before slicing or serving to keep them juicy. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 8 slider buns (soft, brioche-style preferred)
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in about 35-40 minutes total, you’ll have delicious Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the sliders will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and slice them horizontally to create thin cutlets or pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to add flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. Once done, set them aside to rest.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic. This garlic butter will give the sliders an irresistible flavor!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet or an oven-safe dish. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each bottom bun to give it a delicious base.
6. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Place one cooked chicken cutlet on each bun. Add a spoonful of marinara sauce on top of each piece of chicken, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the sauce-covered chicken.
7. Complete the Sliders:
Gently place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of the buns for that extra flavor kick.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted. If you want the tops golden brown, remove the foil and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the sliders out of the oven and garnish them with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot, and don’t forget to add some extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your juicy, cheesy Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders with friends and family! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best methods are overnight in the fridge or using the cold water method in a sealed bag. Once thawed, follow the cooking instructions as usual!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for the best texture, or use the microwave with a covered dish for quicker options.
What If I Can’t Find Slider Buns?
No problem! You can use any soft rolls or even small hoagie buns as a substitution. Just make sure they’re soft enough to enjoy. Hawaiian rolls are also a delicious alternative!
Can I Prep the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders (without baking) ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven to bake until heated through and the cheese is melted!
