Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a fun and delicious twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan. These sliders combine crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets, gooey melted mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce, all tucked into soft, slider-sized buns. The result is a handheld, bite-sized version of the beloved Italian dish that’s perfect for parties, game day, or any casual gathering. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or as a main dish, these sliders are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings for comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair.

Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Chicken Parmesan Sliders deliver the same great flavors of Chicken Parmesan, but in an easy-to-eat, portable format. You can prepare them ahead of time for a hassle-free party snack or dinner, making them a fantastic addition to your menu for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Sliders

• Crispy and Tender: The chicken cutlets are breaded and fried until crispy, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. This contrast in textures makes each bite absolutely satisfying.
• Comfort Food in Slider Form: You get all the delicious, comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan—golden-brown breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella—conveniently packaged into a slider-sized sandwich.
• Perfect for Parties and Gatherings: These sliders are perfect for casual entertaining. They’re easy to eat, can be prepared in advance, and are loved by both adults and kids alike. They make for a great party appetizer or a main dish for a fun weeknight dinner.
• Easy to Customize: You can tweak the recipe to your liking by adding extra toppings like fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The simple ingredients make this recipe versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste.
• Quick to Prepare: While you’re getting all the flavor of a classic Chicken Parmesan, these sliders come together in a fraction of the time. You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen—making them ideal for busy nights or last-minute meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 sliders
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per slider, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 28-32g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Parmesan Sliders:

• 12 small slider buns (brioche or dinner rolls work well)
• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to make 4 thinner pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter (optional but recommended):

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. If the chicken breasts are very thick, you can also pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

2. Bread the Chicken Cutlets

To bread the chicken, prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, place the flour. The second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, making sure it’s coated evenly. Then, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the chicken.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Prepare the Sliders

While the chicken is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet. Lightly toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they’re just beginning to crisp up. This will help prevent the buns from becoming soggy once the marinara sauce is added.

5. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Once the chicken is ready and the buns are lightly toasted, it’s time to assemble the sliders. Place a piece of crispy chicken on each bottom half of the slider buns. Top the chicken with about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce, making sure it’s evenly spread over the chicken. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. For an extra cheesy touch, you can add a bit more mozzarella if desired.

Place the top halves of the buns on top to complete the sliders.

6. Bake the Sliders

Place the assembled sliders in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the buns are golden brown. If you like your cheese a little more browned, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.

7. Prepare the Garlic Butter (Optional)

While the sliders are baking, prepare the garlic butter for the slider buns. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stir well to combine.

8. Finish and Serve

Once the sliders are baked and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven. Brush the tops of the buns with the garlic butter mixture for added flavor and a golden, aromatic finish. You can garnish the sliders with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Cut the sliders into individual servings and serve hot. These sliders are best enjoyed immediately, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two if you have leftovers.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sliders

• Use Thin Chicken Cutlets: For the best texture, ensure that the chicken cutlets are thin and evenly sized. This helps them cook quickly and stay tender on the inside while remaining crispy on the outside.
• Toast the Buns: Toasting the slider buns before assembling the sliders helps keep them from becoming soggy once the marinara sauce is added. It also adds a little crunch to each bite.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella cheese melts better than pre-shredded mozzarella, giving you that perfect gooey, melty cheese layer on top of the chicken.
• Customize the Toppings: Add fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze to give your sliders a unique touch.
• Keep the Marinara Sauce Warm: To prevent the sauce from cooling down the sliders, keep the marinara sauce warm while assembling the sliders. This helps the cheese melt quickly and evenly.

Variations of Chicken Parmesan Sliders

• Buffalo Chicken Parmesan Sliders: For a spicy twist, toss the breaded chicken cutlets in buffalo sauce before assembling the sliders. Add a little blue cheese or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
• Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders: Instead of marinara sauce, spread a layer of basil pesto on the buns. The fresh, herbal flavor of the pesto complements the chicken and mozzarella beautifully.
• Eggplant Parmesan Sliders: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with breaded and fried eggplant slices. Follow the same assembly instructions to create delicious eggplant Parmesan sliders.
• Chicken Parmesan Sliders with Arugula: Add a handful of fresh arugula or spinach to each slider for a peppery, fresh crunch that balances the richness of the fried chicken and melted cheese.
• Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders: For an extra crispy exterior, double-bread the chicken cutlets by dipping them in the egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying. This will give the sliders a crunchier bite.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if necessary. To store, place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unassembled sliders (without the marinara sauce or cheese) in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, assemble the sliders and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Pair these sliders with complementary dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread to complete the Italian-themed meal. The buttery, garlicky bread complements the sliders perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a creamy dressing balances the richness of the chicken Parmesan sliders.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, are a great side dish that complements the flavors of the sliders.
• Fried Zucchini or Eggplant Fries: Serve with crispy zucchini or eggplant fries for a crunchy, vegetable-packed side that pairs wonderfully with the sliders.

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Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Sliders deliver all the comforting flavors of the classic Chicken Parmesan, but in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or any occasion, these sliders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The combination of golden-brown breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella on soft slider buns is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and endless possibilities for customization, Chicken Parmesan Sliders are sure to become a favorite addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!