Chicken Parm Sliders

Chicken Parm Sliders are a perfect blend of crispy, breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all tucked into soft slider buns. These bite-sized treats are ideal for game days, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. They take the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan and transform them into a fun, handheld version that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them with the family, these sliders are guaranteed to impress everyone. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even a beginner in the kitchen can whip them up without stress!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken: Breaded chicken is the star of this recipe. You can use homemade breaded chicken or save time by using pre-breaded frozen chicken tenders. For a lighter option, grilled chicken works well too.
• Marinara Sauce: A quality marinara sauce adds depth and richness to the sliders. You can use store-bought or homemade. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is a must for that gooey, stretchy goodness. If you don’t have mozzarella, you can substitute with provolone or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Slider Buns: Soft slider buns hold everything together. You can also use dinner rolls if you prefer, but Hawaiian rolls add a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds that signature nutty flavor. Grated or shaved Parmesan will work perfectly.

Step-by-Step Directions

• Prepare the Chicken:
• If using fresh chicken, slice chicken breasts into small pieces, season, and coat with breadcrumbs. Fry or bake until crispy and golden brown. If using pre-breaded tenders, bake or air-fry according to package instructions.
• Assemble the Buns:
• Slice the slider buns in half and lay them out on a baking sheet. Spoon a little marinara sauce on the bottom half of each bun, making sure to spread it evenly.
• Add the Chicken:
• Place one piece of cooked chicken on each slider bun. Make sure the chicken is crispy and warm before adding it to the buns for maximum flavor.
• Top with Cheese:
• Add a generous layer of mozzarella on top of each chicken piece. If you want extra cheesiness, sprinkle a little Parmesan on top as well.
• Bake the Sliders:
• Cover the sliders with the top buns and place the tray in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted.
• Serve:
• Remove from the oven and brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, air-fry the breaded pieces instead of baking or frying.
• Make ahead: Prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the sliders right before baking.
• Add fresh basil for a burst of freshness and color.