These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. With crispy chicken tenders, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, all nestled in soft pull-apart rolls, they’re irresistible!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pull-apart dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 8 crispy chicken tenders or strips
- 3/4 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Rolls:
- Without separating the rolls, slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Place the crispy chicken tenders on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly.
- Spoon the marinara or pizza sauce over the chicken tenders.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Add the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Top with Rolls:
- Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled sliders.
5. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder.
6. Brush with Butter:
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the butter mixture. Make sure to cover them evenly for a rich, flavorful finish.
7. Bake:
- Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the sliders from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top.
- Allow the sliders to cool slightly before cutting them apart.
9. Enjoy:
- Serve the Chicken Parmesan Sliders warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations:
Cooking Tips:
- Crispy Chicken: For the crispiest chicken, use pre-cooked chicken tenders or strips that are breaded and baked or fried until golden.
- Sauce: Use your favorite marinara or pizza sauce. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Cheese: For extra cheesiness, you can add a layer of provolone or a different type of cheese along with the mozzarella.
Variations:
- Spicy Sliders: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken tenders with breaded eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Different Meats: You can use cooked meatballs or Italian sausage slices instead of chicken for a different flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version, use a keto-friendly bread or make cheese crisps as the base. Substitute the breaded chicken with grilled or baked chicken breasts seasoned with Italian herbs. Use a sugar-free marinara sauce and top with mozzarella and Parmesan as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Cover them with foil and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
Can I use homemade rolls?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade rolls, go ahead and use them. Just make sure they’re soft and easy to pull apart.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover sliders?
Reheat leftover sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the rolls might not stay as crispy.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before assembling the sliders.
Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a crowd-pleaser that combines the flavors of a classic Italian dish with the convenience of a sandwich. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a family dinner, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all in one bite-sized package. Happy cooking!
