Introduction:
These Chicken Parmesan Sliders bring the beloved flavors of traditional chicken parmesan into a fun and portable slider form! Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these sliders are loaded with crispy chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns.
Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Inspired by the classic Italian dish, this recipe transforms chicken parmesan into an easy-to-eat slider that’s perfect for sharing. They’re comforting, flavorful, and a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- For Assembly:
- 12 slider rolls (such as Hawaiian rolls)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, set up the flour and beaten eggs.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider rolls in half and place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce over the rolls, then place a fried chicken cutlet on each slider. Top with more marinara sauce and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Top with Rolls:
- Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese. Brush the tops with a little olive oil and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake the Sliders:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sliders:
- Use Thin Cutlets: Ensure the chicken cutlets are thin for quicker cooking and easier layering in the sliders.
- Customize the Marinara: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought marinara or make your own for a fresh taste.
- Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, add sautéed spinach or roasted peppers to the sliders.
Variations and Customizations:
- Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Substitute the marinara sauce for buffalo sauce and use blue cheese or ranch dressing instead of mozzarella for a twist.
- Cheesy Garlic Butter: Brush the tops of the rolls with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic for added flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- Balanced Meal: These sliders offer a good mix of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rolls, making them a hearty meal option.
- Portion Control: Sliders are great for portion control, allowing you to enjoy a tasty dish without overindulging.
FAQ:
- Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. - What can I serve with these sliders?
Pair them with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or crispy fries for a complete meal. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just thaw and bake according to the instructions when ready to eat.
chicken parmesan sliders
Ingredients
- Breaded Chicken Tenders: Precooked breaded, and frozen chicken tenders (use any brand that fits your budget and taste preferences).
- Hawaiian Rolls: 1 package of soft squishy Hawaiian rolls.
- Provolone Cheese: Presliced provolone shredded provolone is fine, but may be messier during assembly.
- Marinara Sauce: A thicker marinara sauce is recommended to prevent sogginess.
- Optional: Extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Prepare the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the chicken tenders according to the package directions.
- Meanwhile, without separating the rolls, cut the Hawaiian roll loaf horizontally in half.
- Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Melt the Cheese
- Place eight slices of provolone cheese over the roll bottoms, overlapping as needed.
- Bake the rolls for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Editor’s Tip: Don’t turn off the oven after this step, as you will be baking again shortly.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Spoon half of the marinara sauce over the rolls, spreading it evenly to cover the corners and sides using the back of a spoon.
- Layer the chicken tenders on top of the sauce.
- Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the chicken tenders.
- Add the remaining six slices of provolone cheese.
- Replace the top halves of the rolls.
Step 4: Drizzle on the Topping
- In a small bowl, microwave the butter, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (covered), stirring occasionally until the butter is melted.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the rolls.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Editor’s Tip: Alternatively, melt the butter mixture in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the sliders, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil for garnish.
- If desired, pour extra marinara sauce into a small serving bowl and serve alongside the sliders for dipping.
Notes
- Make Your Own Tenders: Try homemade baked, air-fried, or deep-fried chicken tenders.
- Use Different Chicken: Swap the tenders for shredded rotisserie chicken or chicken nuggets.
- Swap the Cheese: Mozzarella or Muenster cheese would be a great alternative to provolone.
- Add Extra Meat: Layer in slices of salami or pepperoni for extra flavor.
- Sneak in Vegetables: Add sautéed zucchini, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or onions for a veggie boost.