Name: Parmesan Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 6 slider buns.; 18 frozen mozzarella sticks.; 6 slices provolone cheese.; 2 tablespoons butter.; ½ cup olive oil.; ¼ cup grated Parmesan.; 1½ cups breadcrumbs.; 2 large eggs.; ½ teaspoon black pepper.; 2 teaspoons seasoned salt.; ¾ cup flour.; 1 cup buttermilk.; 2 large chicken breasts, butterflied.; ¼ cup melted butter for brushing the buns.; ½ cup marinara sauce.; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley.; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.; 1 teaspoon sea salt.; ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning.

A mouthwatering slider showcasing crispy breaded chicken, melty mozzarella, marinara sauce, and garnished with parsley, nestled on a fluffy bun. | tastybysophie.com

These crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders have become a staple at our family gatherings. The combination of golden-fried chicken, rich marinara, and melted cheese tucked into buttery slider buns creates the perfect handheld version of the classic Italian dish.

The Perfect Bite

Each slider delivers that ideal balance of textures - from the crispy breaded chicken to the gooey melted cheese and soft, butter-brushed bun. The marinara adds just the right amount of tangy brightness to every bite.

Key Ingredients

Chicken Cutlets: Thin, evenly pounded for quick cooking
Seasoned Breadcrumbs: For that golden crust
Mozzarella & Parmesan: The essential cheese duo
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade
Slider Buns: Soft potato rolls work beautifully
Garlic Herb Butter: Takes these over the top

Preparing the Chicken

Pound chicken cutlets to an even thickness before breading. This ensures quick, uniform cooking and makes them the perfect size for sliders. A quick soak in buttermilk keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Assembly Method

Layer the components in a baking dish: sliced buns, crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and generous amounts of cheese. The key is even distribution so every slider gets the perfect ratio of ingredients.

A close-up of a sandwich featuring crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and herbs on a soft bun. | tastybysophie.com

Baking Instructions

Brush the tops with garlic herb butter before baking. This adds flavor and creates a beautifully golden finish. Watch carefully near the end - you want the cheese melted and buns toasted but not burnt.

Essential Tips

Maintain oil temperature when frying chicken to achieve consistent results. Choose fresh slider buns and avoid overcrowding the baking dish. Small details make a significant difference in the final outcome.

Sauce Selection

Traditional marinara works perfectly, but don't hesitate to experiment with vodka sauce or spicy arrabiata. Just ensure the sauce is thick enough to prevent soggy buns.

Variations

Consider adding thin slices of pepperoni, different cheese blends, or fresh basil leaves. The basic recipe provides an excellent foundation for customization.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with antipasto salad, crispy zucchini fries, or classic Caesar salad. Serve extra warm marinara on the side for dipping.

A close-up of a chicken sandwich topped with breaded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and garnished with parsley on a wooden serving board. | tastybysophie.com

Storage Instructions

Store leftover sliders wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and crispy.

Freezer Storage

Prepare extra breaded chicken cutlets and freeze individually. Thaw overnight before assembling sliders for a quick meal solution.

Dietary Adaptations

Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns for a celiac-friendly version. The taste and texture remain remarkably similar to the original.

Prep Ahead Steps

Bread and cook chicken up to a day ahead. Store properly refrigerated, then assemble and bake just before serving.

Large Batch Instructions

Recipe scales easily for larger gatherings. Use multiple baking dishes and maintain even spacing between sliders.

A close-up of a crispy chicken sandwich topped with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and garnished with parsley on a wooden surface. | tastybysophie.com

Family-Friendly Options

Adapt toppings for different preferences. Set aside plain chicken sliders for children who prefer simpler flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs and arrange on a platter with small bowls of extra sauce and grated parmesan for serving.

Reheating Method

Use oven or air fryer for reheating. Cover loosely with foil and warm at 325°F until heated through, removing foil for the last few minutes.

Entertainment Perfect

Ideal for sports viewing parties and casual gatherings. The handheld size makes them perfect finger food that satisfies hearty appetites.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Parmesan Sliders bring together the best elements of Italian-American cooking in a convenient party-friendly format. They're sure to become a regular request at family gatherings.

A close-up of a sandwich featuring crispy chicken pieces, melted cheese, and marinara sauce on a toasted bun, garnished with parsley. | tastybysophie.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I get these ready in advance?: You can prep the chicken coating and butter topping early, but cook and assemble just before eating to keep them crispy.
→ What does buttermilk do for the chicken?: It softens the chicken and helps it stay moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, try milk mixed with a little yogurt or sour cream.
→ Can I swap mozzarella sticks for plain mozzarella?: Sure! Sliced mozzarella works, but the sticks give a fun crunch and that gooey cheese effect.
→ How do I flatten the chicken evenly?: Put the chicken between sheets of wax paper and gently pound it with a meat mallet. This helps it cook evenly and fit perfectly on the buns.
→ Are these sliders freezer-friendly?: They’re best fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken pieces. Once thawed, assemble on buns and heat them up for serving.

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