You know those recipes that everyone asks you to make again? Italian Chicken Parm Sliders are one of those. They’re bite-sized, cheesy, and crispy. My friends go crazy for these little sandwiches. I’ve brought them to potlucks, made them for family movie nights, and even whipped up a batch just because it was Saturday. No matter the occasion, they always disappear fast!
If I talk about myself, I don’t remember making them once when I had any leftovers. Every time I make them, no matter the occasion, guests become all excited.
It’s like getting all the fun flavor of a classic Chicken Parm but in a handheld form. The crispy chicken, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, it’s a combination of flavors in soft slider buns.
It’s my comfort food made to share—what more could you want? This is the real American-Italian recipe you should try next!
What is the Best Time for Parm Sliders?
Let’s be real – is there ever a bad time for ooey-gooey, crispy-edged parm sliders? I think not! But if you’re looking for excuses (as if you need any), here are my fave times to bust these out:
- When your team’s killing it in the big game and you need fuel for cheering
- That moment when your bestie calls with boy drama (or girl drama, we don’t judge)
- Friday night, when the week’s been a dumpster fire and you need some comfort food
Honestly, I’ve made these at 2 AM just because the craving hit. No regrets! They’re like a warm hug for your taste buds, any time of day or night.
I heard someone say chicken parm sliders are perfect for summer, yes they are! But, why only summers? If I love a dish, I want to be able to have it all year long, actually whenever I feel like it. Italian chicken parm sliders are that recipe!
- Summer? Nothing beats these little guys at a backyard BBQ. They’re the perfect hand-held snack while you’re trying not to fall into the pool.
- Winter? They’re practically made for snow days. Picture this: you, wrapped in a blanket burrito, binge-watching your fave show, with a plate of these warm, cheesy sliders. Food heaven!
- Fall tailgating? You’ll be the MVP of the parking lot party.
- Spring picnic in the park? Pack these babies up and watch them disappear faster than you can say “cherry blossom.”
So yeah, whether it’s sweltering or freezing, raining or shining – parm sliders are always in season in my book!
Let me show you how to make these delicious little sliders. Trust me, once you’ve made them, they’ll be a regular request in your house!
Ingredient and Substitutions
Okay, so here’s the deal with the stuff you need for these ridiculously good Italian Chicken Parm Sliders. Chicken: I usually grab chicken breasts and cut them into slider-sized pieces. But hey, life’s crazy sometimes – if you’re in a rush, those frozen chicken tenders work too. Oh, and if you’re feeling fancy (or just really love juicy chicken), thighs are your new best friend.
Breadcrumbs: Panko’s my go-to for that extra crunch, but don’t sweat it if all you’ve got is the regular stuff. I once used crushed-up pretzels in a pinch – weird, but kind of awesome!
Cheese: Fresh mozz is the bomb, but I’ve totally used the pre-shredded bag stuff on lazy days. Provolone’s good too if you want to mix it up.
Sauce: Jarred marinara = lifesaver. But if you’re feeling like a kitchen rockstar, like I feel at times, make homemade sauce. And, if you feel wild? Throw some pesto on there, it will blow some minds!
Buns: Any slider rolls will do, but can we talk about brioche for a sec? Game changer. Or garlic butter rolls if you want another equally good substitute.
All in all, this recipe’s pretty chill. Forgot something? Substitute! Want to experiment? Go for it! As long as it’s cheesy and saucy, you’re golden. Now let’s get cooking!
You might also like Grilled Shrimp Salad Recipe
Step-by-Step Directions
Here’s how we’re going to turn a bunch of ingredients into sliders that’ll make your grandma jealous. Not kidding, experiment yourself!
Step 1: First things first, preheat oven to 375°F. Trust me, a hot oven is key.
Step 2: Cut your chicken into smaller cubes. We want pieces about the size of your palm.
Step 3: Now, let’s play dress-up with the chicken. Flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumbs. It’s like a crispy spa treatment.
Step 4: Heat up some oil in a skillet. When it’s shimmering (fancy cook talk for “really hot”), toss in your chicken. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t crowd the pan – these babies need their space!
Step 5: While the chicken’s doing its thing, slice those buns in half. I like to give them a quick toast – nobody likes a soggy bottom, right?
Step 6: Assembly time! On the bottom bun, slather some sauce (don’t be shy), add your crispy chicken, another dollop of sauce (because why not?), then rain down that cheese.
Step 7: Put the parm sliders in the oven for about 5 minutes. We want that cheese melty and bubbly.
Step 8: Take them out, and slap on the top buns. Wait a minute before you serve it. Try not to burn your fingers as you inevitably grab one immediately.
Pro-Tips
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in flour and breadcrumbs.
- Place a slice of mozzarella on the chicken while it’s still hot so it melts perfectly.
- Lightly toasting the slider buns with a little butter before assembling adds extra texture and flavor.
There you have it! Easy peasy, cheesy squeezy. Even if you mess up, no big deal. You’ll still end up with tasty chicken, cheese, and sauce. But, I doubt you should have any problem after these step-by-step simple-to-follow instructions.
Reheating and Storage
Alright, let’s talk leftovers – if you manage to have any!
So, you’ve stuffed yourself already but still have a few of these tasty sliders left? No worries, I also make myself more than two but can’t go past two at a time.
Put them in the fridge. Just grab any old container with a lid (or any airtight container). They’ll keep for about 3 days, but let’s be real – they never last that long in my house!
Now, when you’re ready to feast again, here’s the deal: step away from the microwave! I know it’s tempting, but trust me, it’s a one-way ticket to Soggy sliders. Nobody wants that, at least I don’t.
Instead, fire up your oven to 350°F. Pop those sliders in for about 10 minutes. It’s like a time machine – they’ll come out almost as good as fresh!
Pro tip: if you’re really thinking ahead, store the chicken separate from the buns. Then you can crisp up the chicken in a skillet and toast the buns separately. It’s a bit more work. But that fresh-made flavor is totally worth it.
And if anyone gives you grief about eating day-old sliders, just tell them it’s “aged like fine wine.” Works every time!
How to Serve Chicken Parm Sliders?
Serving these Italian Chicken Parm Sliders is as fun as making them! Here are a few simple ideas:
Keep it Laid-Back: These sliders are great for game night or any casual hangout. Just pile them onto a big platter and let people help themselves—everyone’s going to want more than one, trust me!
Add a Simple Side: Pair them with something easy like a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a side of fries. And don’t forget a little extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping—people love that!
Slider Bar Fun: If you’re hosting a party, why not make it fun with a slider bar? Lay out toppings like fresh basil, extra cheese, or even some spicy peppers, and let your guests customize their sliders!
Last but not least, fair warning: Once you set this platter down, it’s every man for himself. I’ve seen friendships tested over the last slider. Maybe make a double batch, just to be safe!
FAQ
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken or frozen chicken tenders can save time and still taste great.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the sliders right before serving for maximum freshness.
Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked chicken pieces, and when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble the sliders.
What can I use instead of slider buns?
You can use small dinner rolls, Hawaiian rolls, or even split ciabatta for a heartier option.
Italian Chicken Parm Sliders
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Small saucepan
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 pcs Chicken breasts skinless, boneless
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Flour
- 2 pcs Eggs beaten
- 1 cup Marinara sauce
- 12 Slider buns
- 12 slices Fresh mozzarella
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil optional
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into small pieces or use chicken tenders. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs. Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour, then the egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs. Make sure it’s fully coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken pieces on the bottom half of the slider buns. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, add a slice of mozzarella, and sprinkle some Parmesan.
- Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with fresh basil (optional), place the top bun on each slider, and serve warm!
Notes
- Double bread the chicken by dipping it in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs twice. Enjoy extra crust.
- No fryer? No problem: You can bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- You can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat in the oven before assembling the sliders.
- Feel free to add extras like fresh basil, spicy peppers, or even extra marinara on the side for dipping!