These Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken, melted cheese, and buttery garlic all packed between soft buns make for a fun meal or snack.
Honestly, who can resist warm sliders? I love serving these at family gatherings; they disappear in a flash! Just a little garlic goes a long way in making everyone happy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls are the best for these sliders. They’re sweet and soft! If gluten is a concern, consider gluten-free slider buns.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this dish super easy, but you can also use leftover chicken. For a vegetarian option, replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas!
Marinara Sauce: Any store-bought marinara sauce will work! If you like heat, try a spicy or arrabbiata sauce. You can also make homemade sauce for extra flavor.
Cheese: While mozzarella is key in this recipe, mixing in provolone or even pepper jack can add a fun twist. Just remember to stick with a cheese that melts well.
How Do You Get the Sliders Perfectly Toasted?
The secret to toasty sliders is in the butter-garlic mix. Brush a generous amount onto the buns before assembling. This will help create a crispy crust while baking!
- Prep the butter mixture: Combine melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Brush this mix on the bottom buns before layering, and again on top before baking.
- Cover them with foil for the first part of baking to keep the sliders soft, then uncover for the last few minutes to let them crisp up.
Give these tips a try, and you’ll have sliders that are not only gooey and cheesy but also perfectly crispy on top!
Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work great)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (use rotisserie chicken or cook your own)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- Optional: Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for baking, so you’ll have these yummy sliders ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for making sure your sliders are nice and warm throughout!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them horizontally in half, keeping the halves attached to each other as one block. This makes it super easy to assemble later!
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This will give the sliders a delicious flavor!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the bottom half of the buns on a baking sheet. Use a brush to coat the bun bottoms evenly with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to get every nook and cranny!
5. Add Chicken and Sauce:
Spread the cooked shredded chicken evenly over the buns. Then, spoon the marinara sauce generously over the chicken. Get creative with your layering!
6. Sprinkle the Cheeses:
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the sauce. Yum!
7. Top with Basil:
Scatter the chopped fresh basil leaves over the cheese to add a fresh flavor punch.
8. Close the Sliders:
Brush the tops of the slider buns with any remaining garlic butter mixture, then place the top buns on the assembled sliders.
9. Bake:
Cover the sliders tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until everything is nice and warm and the cheese is melted.
10. Get Them Golden Brown:
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to help the tops turn a lovely golden brown.
11. Serve:
Slice between each slider and serve them warm! They’re best enjoyed with a side of extra marinara for dipping or a crisp salad!
Enjoy your fantastic Garlic Chicken Parmesan Sliders, perfect for parties or a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just make sure to fully thaw it before shredding. Ideally, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water.
Can I Make the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep everything ahead! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in the oven straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for the Marinara Sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile. Each will drastically change the taste, so choose one that complements the chicken well!
