Ah, let me tell you about a family favorite of mine: **Chicken Parmesan Sliders**. These little bites of heaven have a special place in my heart! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy winter gathering with friends, and let’s just say, they disappeared before I even had the chance to snag a second one. There’s something so comforting about the combination of crispy buns, tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese that just warms the soul. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for game days, potlucks, or just a casual dinner at home.
The best part? You can customize them however you like! Whether you want to spice things up with some crushed red pepper or keep it straightforward with just cheese, these sliders are your canvas. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness and see what we need to create these mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Sliders!
What’s in Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Slider Buns: The foundation of this dish! I usually stick with classic slider buns, but feel free to use whole grain or even gluten-free options if you prefer.
Cooked Chicken Breasts: Shredded or sliced, this is where the protein comes from. I always use leftover roasted chicken for easy prep, but rotisserie chicken works like a charm too!
Marinara Sauce: A rich and tangy sauce that brings all those Italian flavors together. I tend to go for a store-bought brand I trust, but homemade is fabulous if you have the time!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The melt factor! Gooey mozzarella is what dreams are made of and it adds that classic cheese pull we all love.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese enhances the flavor and gives a nice salty punch to each bite. Always go for the real stuff if you can; it really makes a difference!
Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: The flavor duo that elevates the entire dish. I always keep these spices on hand; they’re game changers in so many recipes!
Fresh Basil: This adds a lovely herbal note that brightens up the sliders. Plus, it’s a great garnish for that extra pop of color.
Unsalted Butter: For that glossy finish on the buns. We’re brushing the tops to not only add flavor but also help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Salt and Pepper: The basics that no dish can go without. You can never go wrong by seasoning to taste!
Is Chicken Parmesan Sliders Good for You?
Absolutely, but like anything else, moderation is key! These sliders pack a nice balance of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese, which is great for your bones. The marinara sauce adds a touch of tomato goodness, providing antioxidants like lycopene. Just keep in mind that if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium marinara and control the amount of grated cheese you sprinkle on top.
The slider buns can be a source of refined carbs, so consider using whole grain if you’re looking for more fiber. Overall, they’re a delight to enjoy on occasions, but feel free to play around with the ingredients to fit your dietary needs!
Ingredients to Gather
– 12 slider buns
– 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced or shredded
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 12 sliders, perfect for sharing!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Slice the slider buns in half, keeping them connected. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken mixture, followed by the remaining Parmesan cheese.
6. Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese.
7. Brush the melted butter over the tops of the buns. You can also sprinkle some Italian seasoning or chopped parsley for a little flair!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into individual sliders, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Delicious Variations and Tips!
– If you have picky eaters, you can swap the chicken for turkey or even eggplant for a veggie version.
– Feeling spicy? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a kick!
– Serve these sliders with a side salad or some crispy roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
– And if you love a bit of crunch, consider adding in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for added texture!
I can’t wait for you to try these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! They’re a hit every single time, and I guarantee you’ll be sharing them with family and friends in no time. Let me know how it goes, and feel free to share any fun twists you may have added! Happy cooking!
