As the sun begins its descent and the fragrant sounds of dinner preparation fill the air, I find myself craving something comforting yet effortless. Have you ever wondered how to elevate your appetizer game without spending all day in the kitchen? Enter Chicken Parmesan Sliders—these mini delights combine the beloved flavors of classic chicken parmesan into fun, bite-sized servings.
With each slider, you’re met with gooey melted cheese, juicy chicken tenders, and a splash of rich marinara, all nestled between soft, sweet Kings Hawaiian rolls. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just whipping up a quick weeknight meal, these sliders come together in just 30 minutes! For those looking for a meatless twist, there’s even a delicious variation featuring eggplant cutlets.
Join me as we dive into this quick and easy recipe that’s bound to impress everyone at your table!
Why are Chicken Parmesan Sliders a must-try?
Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The melty provolone and fresh mozzarella combined with rich marinara deliver a comforting taste that everyone loves.
Versatile Options: Not a meat lover? Try swapping chicken for eggplant cutlets for a delightful vegetarian treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these bite-sized sliders are great for sharing and sure to impress your guests!
Make Ahead: Assemble them in advance for a hassle-free dinner; just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
These sliders are not just delicious but also convenient, making them a go-to for any occasion!
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Ingredients
• All the essentials for sliders!
For the Sliders
- Kings Hawaiian Rolls – Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls are the perfect foundation for your Chicken Parmesan Sliders.
- Chicken Tenders – For a hearty protein source; feel free to use frozen tenders for convenience or whip up homemade ones!
- Marinara Sauce – Adds moisture and a burst of flavor; consider using homemade for an extra special touch.
- Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully; sharp and creamy, but can be swapped for mozzarella if you prefer.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a gooey texture when melted; replace with more provolone or shredded cheese if needed.
For the Topping
- Butter – This rich ingredient binds the topping, adding flavor; olive oil works for a lighter alternative.
- Sea Salt – A simple addition that enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Garlic – Provides a robust flavor; fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a convenient substitute.
- Fresh Parsley – A lovely garnish that adds depth; feels free to omit or use other fresh herbs if desired.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty finish to the topping; can be replaced with another aged cheese, if you like.
For the Optional Freshness
- Fresh Basil – Enhances aroma and freshness; if not available, dried Italian herbs will work just fine!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking these delightful sliders, ensuring they cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
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Split the Hawaiian rolls in half and gently place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish—this will create the perfect base for your sliders to shine.
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Layer the bottom rolls with provolone cheese, cooked chicken tenders, marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil, building that delicious flavor combination everyone craves!
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Top with the other halves of the rolls, giving your sliders that classic sandwich shape and helping to lock in all those savory fillings.
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Mix melted butter, sea salt, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan in a bowl to create a flavorful topping that will make the sliders irresistible.
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Brush the butter mixture generously over the top of the rolls, ensuring every last bite is rich and flavorful.
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is hot and bubbly, releasing all those wonderful aromas into your kitchen!
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Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden brown and crispy—this adds that perfect crunch to each slider.
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Serve immediately by slicing them to share; they’re best enjoyed warm, bursting with gooey cheese and the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan.
Optional: Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping; it complements the sliders perfectly!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious pairings that complement the flavors of these mouthwatering sliders.
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Crispy Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens adds a crunch that contrasts perfectly with the rich and cheesy sliders. Toss in a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal.
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Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery slices ooze flavor and are ideal for soaking up the extra marinara sauce. The garlicky goodness enhances the overall comfort of your meal.
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Italian Roasted Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms offers a savory, roasted sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with the sliders.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet, and smoky, these fries provide a delightful contrast that complements the savory taste of the Chicken Parmesan Sliders.
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Classic Marinara Dip: Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping; the rich flavors will tie everything together and keep that Italian theme front and center.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing drink that balances the savory sliders with a zingy sweetness—perfect for enhancing the dining experience on warm evenings!
Chicken Parmesan Slider Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful sliders to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken tenders with frozen eggplant cutlets for a delicious meatless treat that still packs great flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for a vibrant burst of color and nutrition in every bite.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy gouda, to give your sliders a unique twist!
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of crushed red pepper flakes with your marinara for those who love a bit of heat in their appetizer.
- Pesto Delight: Swap marinara sauce for basil pesto for a fresh, herby flavor that elevates your sliders to gourmet status.
- Crunch Factor: Top with crispy fried onions before baking for an extra crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the gooey interior.
- Garlic Bread Twist: Use garlic bread rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls for an indulgent twist that makes every bite feel like a party.
- Savory Herbs: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter mixture for a fragrant and aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Expert Tips for Chicken Parmesan Sliders
- Avoid Sogginess: Measure your marinara sauce carefully, or leave the bottoms of the rolls off until plating to keep them crisp.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more profound flavor explosion in your Chicken Parmesan Sliders.
- Preheat Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking and avoid a soggy bottom layer.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses; swapping provolone or fresh mozzarella can create unique flavor profiles without compromising quality.
- Serve Hot: These sliders are best enjoyed immediately after baking to appreciate the gooeyness of the melted cheese and the overall warmth!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance by layering the bottom rolls with provolone cheese, cooked chicken tenders, marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the baking instructions: remove the wrap, brush the butter mixture over the top, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious sliders that are just as flavorful with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Parmesan Sliders
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Room Temperature: Chicken Parmesan Sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they can stay at room temperature for about 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sliders individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy frozen sliders, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken tenders for my sliders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenders, look for ones that are plump and moist, with a pale pink color. If you’re opting for frozen tenders, check the packaging date to ensure freshness. Homemade tenders are even better; you can marinate them in your favorite spices to enhance flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
For storage, place your leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them gently to enjoy the melty cheese and tender chicken just like when you first made them.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Sliders, and how?
Very! To freeze, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, to ensure they remain juicy.
What should I do if my sliders come out soggy?
If you encounter soggy sliders, it’s often due to excess marinara sauce. To troubleshoot this, try measuring your sauce more carefully next time or layer the sauce only on the chicken or top rolls before baking to minimize moisture absorption. Additionally, you might want to leave the bottoms of the rolls un-sauced until serving for better texture.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Sliders vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a meatless version, swap the chicken tenders for frozen eggplant cutlets, which add delightful flavor and texture. You may also add sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers to amp up the nutritional value and flavor profile, ensuring everyone enjoys a tasty bite!
Savory Chicken Parmesan Sliders Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking these delightful sliders.
- Split the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the bottom rolls with provolone cheese, cooked chicken tenders, marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- Top with the other halves of the rolls.
- Mix melted butter, sea salt, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan in a bowl.
- Brush the butter mixture over the top of the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately by slicing them to share.