Let me tell you, Chicken Parmesan Sliders hold a special place in my heart—and my stomach! I remember the first time I made these little gems for a game day party at my friend’s house. We had a spread that could rival a banquet, but wouldn’t you know it, these sliders stole the show! Everyone kept coming back for more. It’s as if they had a magical allure; crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and that rich marinara all packed into a cute bun. What’s not to love?
This recipe is not just about filling your belly; it’s about creating that warm, fuzzy feeling that comes from sharing good food with great friends (and maybe a touch of competitive spirit for the game!). I swear, each bite feels like a cozy hug. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious Chicken Parmesan Sliders together!
What’s in Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of our sliders! Lean and packed with protein, they’re perfect for frying to crispy perfection.
All-Purpose Flour: This simple ingredient creates a beautiful coating for the chicken, giving it that perfect crunch.
Large Eggs: These are your binding agents. They help the breadcrumbs stick, ensuring each piece of chicken is golden and delightful.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for a boost of flavor, but plain is just fine too—just season it up with some dried herbs!
Marinara Sauce: Ah, the beloved sauce! Rich and tangy, it’s the magical elixir that brings everything together.
Sliced or Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheesy goodness gets all melty and gooey on our sliders, making them irresistible. Feel free to go all out and use both sliced and shredded!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this brings an extra layer of savory goodness.
Slider Buns or Dinner Rolls: The fluffy hold-it-together aspect of our sliders. I love using soft sliders for that bite-sized perfection.
Fresh Parsley: A little garnish for a pop of color and freshness. Plus, it makes you look fancy—who doesn’t love that?
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out the flavors of all those delicious ingredients.
Olive Oil: For frying those chicken pieces to golden-brown perfection. A must-have in any kitchen!
Is Chicken Parmesan Sliders Good for You?
Now, while we all know these sliders are a bit indulgent, let’s talk about the health factors.
Chicken Breasts: These are lean protein-packed powerhouses! They help keep you full and are great for muscle health.
Marinara Sauce: If you make it fresh, it can be loaded with vitamins from the tomatoes. Just be mindful of store-bought versions, as some can be high in sugars or preservatives.
Breadcrumbs: While they are delicious, they do add carbs. If you want a lighter twist, consider using whole-grain breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts for added fiber!
Overall, moderation is key here. Enjoying these sliders on special occasions is perfectly fine, and with some fresh veggies on the side, you can balance out the meal beautifully.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced (or shredded)
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
– Serves: 6
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sliders?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze, and who doesn’t love that?
2. Cut the chicken breasts into small fillets for sliders. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. These little guys are about to get a glow-up!
3. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third dish. It’s like an assembly line of deliciousness!
4. Dredge each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered!
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. While the chicken is still hot, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each piece. Let that cheese melt just a bit—it’s pure magic.
7. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet. This is where the real assembling happens!
8. Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce on each bun bottom, then place the cheesy fried chicken right on top.
9. Spritz on some grated Parmesan cheese because why not? It’s a party, after all!
10. Place the top halves of the slider buns on each assembled slider. For an extra touch, brush the tops with a dash of olive oil or melted butter. We want those sliders to have a lovely golden hue!
11. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the slider tops are lightly golden and crisp. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly!
12. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Pro tip: Don’t skip the extra sauce!
Slider Secrets: Tips and Variations
– These sliders are phenomenal as is, but the fun doesn’t stop there! Consider switching up the cheese. Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone or add some spicy pepper jack for a kick.
– Feeling adventurous? Throw on some fresh basil leaves or even sautéed spinach for an added pop of color and flavor that’ll elevate your sliders even more.
– If you’re looking for a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying. Just drizzle a bit of olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through!
– Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy dinner at home. Serve them up with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal.
I can’t wait for you to try these Chicken Parmesan Sliders! They’re bound to bring warmth and joy to your table just like they do in mine. Trust me, these little bites of bliss will have everyone asking for the recipe, and I’m sure you’ll love sharing the deliciousness. Happy cooking!
