As the sun sets and the aroma of warm bread fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel comforted by the thought of Chicken Parmesan Sliders. These bite-sized delights come together in a jiffy, making them a go-to for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft Hawaiian roll packed with crispy chicken tenders, bubbling mozzarella, and vibrant marinara, all accentuated by a golden, buttery topping.
Discovering this recipe was a gamechanger for me — a delightful way to showcase Italian-American flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, these sliders are sure to impress both young and old alike. And, for those seeking a meatless twist, simply swap in eggplant cutlets for an equally delicious option. Let’s dive into the details of crafting these crowd-pleasers!
Why are Chicken Parmesan Sliders a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each slider bursts with the classic Italian flavors you love, combining crispy chicken, creamy cheeses, and zesty marinara.
Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering appetizer ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
Versatile Options: Whether you opt for chicken or a meat-free eggplant alternative, this recipe caters to everyone’s taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These sliders are perfect for parties, family dinners, or game nights, guaranteed to leave everyone raving!
For more delightful ideas, don’t forget to check out our appetizer collection!
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Ingredients
• Everything you need for delicious sliders!
For the Sliders
- Kings Hawaiian rolls – Soft base for the sliders; any soft sandwich rolls can also work.
- Chicken tenders – Main protein that’s easy to cook; consider using store-bought frozen for convenience.
- Marinara sauce – Adds moisture and flavor; use your favorite brand for the best results.
- Provolone cheese – Provides a delightful melting texture; mozzarella can be used as a substitute for a blended flavor.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese – Enhances creaminess and flavor; sliced is best for easy melting.
- Fresh basil – Adds aromatic freshness; dried basil can substitute in a pinch.
For the Butter Mixture
- Butter – Creates a rich, golden crust; unsalted is recommended if you’re controlling sodium.
- Sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh is best, but garlic powder (1 tsp) can be a quick substitute.
- Fresh parsley – Adds color and brightness; optional but highly recommended for garnishing.
- Grated parmesan cheese – Provides finishing flavor and texture; opt for fresh for the best taste.
Dive into the fun of crafting these Chicken Parmesan Sliders, guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your gatherings!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders
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Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Set your oven temperature so that it’s perfectly heated by the time you’re ready to bake those delicious sliders. -
Prepare the Hawaiian rolls.
Carefully split the Hawaiian rolls in half, placing the bottom half snugly in a greased baking dish, ready for all those tasty toppings. -
Layer the cheese and chicken.
Start layering with 6 slices of provolone cheese. Follow with your crispy cooked chicken tenders, a generous spoonful of marinara, sliced fresh mozzarella, and a sprinkle of aromatic fresh basil. -
Top with the other half of the rolls.
Place the top halves of the rolls over your savory layers, creating a delightful sandwich ready to be transformed into sliders. -
Mix your buttery topping.
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, sea salt, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan to create a savory, rich topping that will elevate your sliders. -
Brush the mixture over the rolls.
Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with your buttery mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. -
Bake covered with foil.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and the rolls to become warm and soft. -
Bake uncovered for golden perfection.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, watching for the tops to turn a beautiful golden brown, inviting and delicious. -
Slice and serve.
Once done, slice the sliders into individual servings and plate them warm. Optionally, serve alongside marinara for dipping.
Optional: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for garnish and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Parmesan Sliders
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Soggy Bottoms Beware: Avoid excess marinara on the rolls. Use just enough to flavor the chicken without soaking the buns.
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Crispiness is Key: For the best texture, bake the sliders right before serving. This ensures they remain crispy and delicious.
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Transporting Tips: If bringing to a potluck, warm the sliders in a preheated oven rather than a microwave. This retains their appealing crunch.
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Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses for your Chicken Parmesan Sliders, using cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
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Make it Meatless: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute frozen eggplant cutlets for the chicken, keeping the other ingredients the same for a delicious option.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
For the perfect culinary experience, let’s round out those delightful sliders with complementary sides and drinks that enhance the flavors of your meal.
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Crispy Garlic Bread:
This classic side adds a crunch and garlicy aroma that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce in the sliders, making every bite even more satisfying. -
Caesar Salad:
A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons brings a refreshing contrast to the sliders, balancing the rich flavors. -
Roasted Vegetables:
A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers a delightful sweetness and char, creating a colorful and healthy side dish that complements the savory sliders. -
Potato Wedges:
Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a wonderful finger food option, adding a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the sliders’ softness. -
Italian Bruschetta:
These toasted bread bites topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar provide a burst of fresh flavor, enhancing the Italian essence of your meal. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
A refreshing sparkling lemonade or soda adds a zesty brightness that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the sliders, elevating the overall dining experience. -
Tiramisu:
End your meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu. Its creamy texture and coffee flavor are the perfect way to round off your slider feast.
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Variations
Customize these delicious sliders to suit your tastes or dietary needs with these fun swaps and twists!
- Vegetarian: Use frozen eggplant cutlets instead of chicken tenders for a delightful meatless option.
- Cheese Swaps: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy gouda to surprise your palate.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps to enjoy these sliders while keeping it gluten-free!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for a delightful heat that elevates the flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Blend fresh oregano or thyme into the garlic butter for an aromatic lift that will make your sliders sing.
- Pesto Dream: Spread a layer of pesto on the rolls for a burst of herby flavor that takes the classic to new heights.
- BBQ Twist: Replace marinara with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions before baking for an added texture and savory crunch that steals the show.
Let your culinary creativity flow and make these sliders your own!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Parmesan Sliders
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Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: If you wish to freeze them, wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
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Reheating: To reheat from the fridge, bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil, then uncover for 5 minutes to crisp up the tops.
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Avoid Sogginess: To maintain texture, avoid overwhelming the sliders with marinara sauce before storing. Add sauce fresh when serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire assembly of sliders up to 24 hours in advance by layering the rolls with cheese, chicken tenders, marinara, and fresh basil, then covering them tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge. To maintain freshness, avoid over-soaking the rolls with sauce to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the buttery mixture over the tops and bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the sliders are golden brown. You’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality sliders ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of rolls should I use for Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
I absolutely love using Kings Hawaiian rolls for their soft, slightly sweet texture. However, any soft sandwich rolls will work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor!
How long can I store Chicken Parmesan Sliders in the fridge?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their lovely taste and texture, try to reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave if possible!
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Sliders? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze your sliders, wrap each individual slider in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil. Uncover for the last 5 minutes for that perfect crispy top!
How do I avoid soggy buns when making Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Avoid soggy bottoms by controlling the amount of marinara sauce you use. You want just enough to add flavor without soaking the rolls. If you’re making them ahead, it’s best to bake them fresh just before serving to keep that delicious crispiness!
Can I make a vegetarian version of these sliders?
Absolutely! For a meatless alternative, substitute the chicken tenders with frozen eggplant cutlets, keeping all the other ingredients the same. This version is equally delicious and will please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!
What are some common troubleshooting tips for Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
If you notice that your cheese isn’t melting as desired, ensure you’re using slices of fresh mozzarella, as it melts beautifully. If the tops don’t brown as much as you’d like, feel free to turn on the broiler for a minute at the end—just watch closely to prevent burning!
Savory Chicken Parmesan Sliders That Wow Every Crowd
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Carefully split the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom halves snugly in a greased baking dish.
- Layer with provolone cheese, followed by chicken tenders, marinara, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Top with the other half of the rolls.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, sea salt, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan.
- Brush the mixture over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Slice into individual servings and serve warm.