Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Oh, how I love the familiar coziness of these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! They have become a beloved part of my family’s dinner rotation, especially on those busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. It all started when I was trying to recreate the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a more convenient form. Little did I know, this would become such a hit with everyone—from my picky eaters to my friends who love joining us for dinner. Let’s dive into why these sliders could become your next dinner favorite!

Why You’ll Love This

Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in just 35 minutes, making them perfect even on a hectic weekday.
Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are kitchen staples, which means fewer trips to the grocery store.
Kid-Friendly: The mini size and cheesy goodness make these sliders a hit with the little ones.
Adjustable: It’s easy to customize the flavor with your favorite marinara sauce or cheese.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these sliders are easy to serve and enjoy together.

Ingredients

12 Kings Hawaiian rolls: These sweet, fluffy rolls hold everything together beautifully.
1 pound chicken tenders, cooked: Provides the hearty, satisfying protein base.
1/2 cup marinara sauce: Adds tangy and rich flavors, reminiscent of a classic chicken parmesan.
8 slices provolone cheese: Offers a creamy, meltable layer to connect all the flavors.
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced: Sparks that gooey, indulgent cheese pull in each slider.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brings garden-fresh brightness to the sliders.
1/4 cup (57g) butter, melted: Ensures the tops are perfectly golden and flavorful.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the savory notes in the dish.
3 teaspoons garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic, robust flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: A pop of color and herby goodness.
1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, aged quality to the buttery topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully split the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half into a prepared baking dish and set the top half aside.

Step 2: Build Your Sliders

Start by layering those bottoms. Layer with 6 slices of provolone cheese, ensuring even coverage. Next, place the cooked chicken tenders over the cheese, then drizzle with marinara sauce. Add the sliced fresh mozzarella and sprinkle with fresh basil.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Place the top halves of the buns over the prepared sliders. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, sea salt, garlic, parsley, and parmesan cheese. Generously brush this flavorful topping over the rolls.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is hot and bubbly. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 5 minutes uncovered for a crispy top. Serve warm, and enjoy each cheesy, delicious bite!

Important Things to Remember

Even Cooking: Lightly cover with foil first to ensure the cheese melts without burning the tops.
Roll Freshness: Use fresh Hawaiian rolls to maintain that perfect balance of softness and structure.
Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for maximum gooeyness and flavor.

How to Serve It

For a cozy dinner, plate these sliders with a bright, crisp green salad on the side. You can also pair them with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a classic Italian red to complement the flavors. For a final touch, sprinkle a bit of extra parmesan and basil before serving.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your needs. Substitute provolone with gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara. If you’re avoiding carbs, serve the chicken and toppings over spiralized zucchini or on a bed of mixed greens.

Keeping and Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem. Store any remaining sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm the sliders for about 10 minutes, or until heated through without drying them out.

What I’ve Figured Out

After making these sliders numerous times, I’ve found that letting them rest for just a couple of minutes post-baking helps everything settle, making each bite more cohesive. Trust me, this little pause makes all the difference in texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the Hawaiian rolls for your favorite gluten-free dinner rolls.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

Pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce work beautifully and provide a unique twist.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Sure! Replace chicken with grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian version.

What cheese is best to use?

While the recipe calls for mozzarella and provolone, feel free to experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well and suits your taste.