Oh, my friends, today I’m beyond excited to share one of my absolute favorite recipes with you: Chicken Parmesan Sliders! These little beauties are like a warm hug on a plate, packed with all the flavor we love from classic Chicken Parmesan but in a fun and shareable slider form. Every time I make these for a gathering, I feel like the most popular chef in town—everyone just loves them!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those magical cheese-filled weekends at my cousin’s house. We were flinging together everything in her kitchen, laughter spilling out like the marinara sauce we were preparing. I watched her whip up these sliders, and they instantly became a staple in my household. The blend of crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and vibrant marinara packed into little buns is a culinary dream come true. Trust me, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit!
What’s in Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Let’s break down all the goodness that goes into these sliders:
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I always go for fresh, thinly sliced chicken breasts. They cook up beautifully and soak in that marinara sauce scrumptiously.
Bread Crumbs: For the crunchy coating, seasoned breadcrumbs do the job just right. You can use store-bought or homemade—no judgment here!
Parmesan Cheese: This tangy and savory cheese brings depth of flavor. I like using freshly grated, but the pre-grated stuff works in a pinch.
Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: These add that aromatic kick that’s like Italian magic in your mouth. Feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Eggs: They’re crucial for binding everything together. Two large ones, beaten to perfection, do the trick.
Marinara Sauce: The rich, tomato-y goodness that really pulls this dish together! You can use store-bought or your favorite homemade sauce.
Slider Buns: Choose soft, fluffy slider buns that can hold all the yumminess without falling apart. I have a soft spot for whole wheat for an added nutritional punch!
mozzarella cheese: Because what’s a parmesan slider without a melty layer of mozzarella? It’s a must-have!
Olive Oil: Just enough to give that golden-brown crispiness to the chicken.
Fresh Basil: A fragrant garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor. Trust me, it elevates the dish!
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those of us who like a little kick! This is entirely up to your taste.
Is Chicken Parmesan Sliders Good for You?
Now, let’s dish a little about the health benefits—but don’t worry; these sliders are still delightful, even with a health-conscious twist!
Chicken Breast: Lean protein that is great for muscle building and filling up your belly without weighing you down.
Breadcrumbs: While they do add some carbs, using whole-grain options can give your sliders a fiber boost!
Parmesan Cheese: A good source of calcium, it can add flavor without needing tons of cheese. Moderation is key though!
Marinara Sauce: Loaded with vitamins from tomatoes, it also offers a dose of antioxidants.
Of course, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be sure to look for low-sodium versions of your breadcrumbs and marinara sauce.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these fabulous sliders:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure a crispy finish!
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken slice into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture—make sure each slice is well-covered!
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
5. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms in a baking dish.
6. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom halves of the buns.
7. Place the cooked chicken slices on top of the sauce, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese. (Feel free to add more if you like it extra cheesy!)
8. Add another layer of marinara sauce over the cheese and then place the bun tops on.
9. Brush the tops of the buns with a little more olive oil. Sprinkle fresh basil and red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted.
11. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and then serve up those cheesy, saucy goodness!
Slider Secrets to Remember!
Here’s a little insider knowledge to elevate your Chicken Parmesan Sliders:
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist!
– Add some sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.
– Pair these sliders with a side salad or some crispy fries for a full meal, and don’t forget to have extra marinara on the side for dipping!
So, there you have it! I absolutely can’t wait for you to dive into these Chicken Parmesan Sliders. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience. Make them for a gathering, enjoy them on a cozy night in, or share them with loved ones—you’re bound to create some delicious memories! Please let me know how they turn out; I’d love to hear all about your experiences! Happy cooking!
