Chicken Parmesan Sliders

There’s something comforting about a classic Chicken Parmesan—crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce. But what if you could enjoy all those flavors in a handheld, bite-sized form? That’s where Chicken Parmesan Sliders come in. These mini sandwiches are perfect for anyone looking for a simple, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just want a no-fuss dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

By using pre-cooked chicken tenders, these sliders eliminate the most time-consuming step of traditional Chicken Parmesan. Plus, the soft, buttery rolls and a garlic-parmesan butter topping take them to the next level. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or quick dinner, these sliders offer big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients and Preparation

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

• Hawaiian Rolls – These soft, slightly sweet rolls hold everything together and provide a great contrast to the savory filling.
• Chicken Tenders – Using pre-cooked chicken tenders saves time while ensuring a crispy, flavorful bite. You can also use homemade breaded chicken or grilled chicken for a lighter option.
• Marinara Sauce – The heart of any Chicken Parmesan dish, this tomato-based sauce adds tangy richness. Opt for a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own.
• Provolone Cheese – Provides a creamy, slightly sharp flavor that melts beautifully. If you prefer, swap it with Swiss or cheddar for a different twist.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Offers the signature stretchy, gooey texture. Fresh mozzarella slices work best, but shredded mozzarella is a fine substitute.
• Fresh Basil – Adds a fragrant, herby touch that enhances the overall flavor. Dried basil can be used in a pinch.

For the butter topping that makes these sliders extra irresistible:

• Butter – Melted butter ensures a rich, golden finish on the rolls.
• Garlic – Minced garlic infuses the topping with aromatic depth.
• Parsley – A fresh, mild herb that balances the richness of the butter.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
• Sea Salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it heats, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the ingredients in this order: six slices of provolone cheese, cooked chicken tenders, a generous spread of marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella slices, and chopped basil.

Step 4: Place the top half of the rolls over the layered ingredients. Press down gently to ensure everything stays together.

Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and sea salt. Using a brush or spoon, spread this mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls.

Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to blend.

Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders turn golden brown.

Step 8: Remove from the oven, let them cool for a minute, then slice and serve warm.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Prevent Soggy Rolls: To keep the bottom of the rolls from getting too soggy, consider lightly toasting them before assembling the sliders.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the sliders up to a few hours ahead, cover them with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
• Crispier Chicken: If using fresh homemade chicken tenders, try air-frying them for a crispy texture without extra oil.
• Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a slight kick.
• Cheese Substitutes: Try using Parmesan, Gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Parmesan Sliders pair well with a variety of sides to create a complete meal:

• Side Salad: A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders.
• Garlic Parmesan Fries: Baked or air-fried, these crispy fries complement the Italian flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a nutritious touch.
• Dipping Sauce: Keep extra marinara on the side for dipping, or try a garlic aioli for a creamy alternative.

For leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight meal or a game-day gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. What sides did you pair it with? Did you try any fun variations? We’d love to hear from you!

FAQ About Chicken Parmesan Sliders

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