Chicken Sliders Recipe: How to Make Irresistible Sliders at Home
Jennifer
Few dishes bring as much joy as a tray of warm, cheesy chicken sliders. These bite-sized delights are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy goodness and buttery rolls. Whether you’re preparing for a party, family dinner, or casual snack, this chicken sliders recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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History of Chicken Sliders Recipe Recipe:
The humble slider traces its origins to early 20th-century America, with its initial rise credited to fast-food chains offering quick, convenient meals. The original sliders were small, square-shaped hamburgers served on soft buns. Their petite size made them perfect for enjoying multiple flavors in one sitting, leading to their enduring popularity.
As sliders evolved, cooks began experimenting with different proteins, sauces, and toppings. Chicken sliders emerged as a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative to traditional beef sliders. By incorporating marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, chicken sliders took on a comforting Italian twist that resonates with diverse palates.
The introduction of innovative bread options, such as Hawaiian rolls, further revolutionized the slider game. Their slight sweetness perfectly complements savory fillings, creating a balanced flavor profile. Today, chicken sliders are cherished worldwide for their versatility and ease of preparation, making them a staple for gatherings and weekday meals alike.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sliders Recipe:
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken sliders are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for parties, potlucks, or even a quick family meal. Their compact size and easy-to-hold design make them perfect for serving a crowd. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to impress.
Bursting with Flavor
The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and buttery garlic topping creates an irresistible flavor explosion. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory and cheesy goodness with a hint of freshness from the basil.
Chicken Sliders Recipe Simple and Quick to Make
This recipe is straightforward and uses common ingredients, so you can prepare it even on busy days. From cooking the chicken to assembling the sliders, the steps are easy to follow, making it a great option for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Customizable to Your Taste
The beauty of this chicken sliders recipe lies in its adaptability. Add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes, experiment with different cheeses, or incorporate your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you can tailor the recipe to your preferences.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken, good-quality marinara sauce, and premium cheese elevate the flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter Topping: It enhances the sliders’ flavor and gives them a beautiful golden finish.
- Pre-toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the buns prevents them from becoming soggy and adds a subtle crunch.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding for the best texture and safety.
- Serve Immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is melty and the buns are warm.
How To Make This Chicken Sliders Recipe:
Chicken Sliders Recipe: How to Make Irresistible Sliders at Home
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Mixing Bowls
- Silicone brush
- Forks for shredding chicken
- Knife for slicing buns
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb frozen chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 12 slider buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Start Cooking Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place olive oil in a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Season the frozen chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Cook with Marinara Sauce: Add marinara sauce to the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Flip the chicken, cover, and cook for another 8 minutes until cooked through.
- Shred & Simmer: Remove the skillet from the heat and shred the chicken using two forks. Return the skillet to medium-high heat, bring the marinara sauce to a simmer, and cook for 2 minutes until thickened. Add the chopped basil and remove from heat.
- Toast Slider Buns: Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Assemble Sliders: Spoon the chicken marinara mixture onto the toasted bottom buns. Sprinkle each with shredded mozzarella cheese, then place the top halves of the slider buns over the filling.
- Garlic Butter Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture over the top buns, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Final Bake: Return the assembled sliders to the oven. Bake for about 7 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the top buns are toasted. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Enjoy your healthy and sliders.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and bake them fresh when ready to serve.
- Customizable Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, incorporate sautéed vegetables, or try various sauces for a unique twist.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Tips and Variations:
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or even a smoky gouda for a unique flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to add extra nutrition and variety.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch.
- Freeze for Later: Assemble the sliders and freeze them before the final bake. Bake directly from frozen for a quick meal.
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Substitute marinara sauce with barbecue sauce and add a slice of pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Use buffalo sauce instead of marinara and top with crumbled blue cheese and ranch dressing.
- Caprese Chicken Sliders: Add sliced fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an Italian-inspired variation.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace slider buns with lettuce wraps or low-carb bread.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes! Fresh chicken works just as well. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
While the oven provides the best results, you can use a toaster oven or even a covered skillet on low heat to melt the cheese and toast the buns.
Provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses are great alternatives to mozzarella.
Chicken sliders are a delicious and easy way to elevate any meal. Their irresistible flavor, simple preparation, and versatility make them a must-try recipe. Ready to impress your family and friends? Gather your ingredients and let the cooking begin!
Don’t forget to check out other Sliders recipes and to share your results and leave a comment below—we’d love to hear your feedback!
