Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Name: Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I’m absolutely thrilled to share my Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders with you! These delightful little sandwiches combine tender chicken with marinara sauce and gooey cheese, all nestled within soft slider buns. As a family favorite, I find them perfect for both casual gatherings and weeknight dinners. The best part? They come together in just a short time, and everyone loves the cheesy goodness. Let's dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:03:35.685Z

When I first tried making Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders, I wanted to create a fun, portable version of the classic dish. The idea came to me while hosting friends for game night; I knew I needed something that was both delicious and easy to eat. I opted for baking instead of frying to achieve a crispy texture without the mess.

As I experimented, I discovered that pre-cooking the chicken ensures it’s juicy and flavorful, while the cheese melts beautifully atop a dollop of marinara. Trust me; the simplicity of these sliders makes them perfect for any occasion!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Tender chicken full of flavor and topped with melty cheese
A delightful twist on classic American-Italian comfort food
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders plays a pivotal role in defining their flavor and texture. The shredded chicken provides a hearty base that complements the tangy marinara sauce. When selecting a marinara, opt for a brand that you really enjoy, as its flavor will shine through. Additionally, the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan offers a delightful contrast: mozzarella for its gooey melt, and Parmesan for its sharpness and depth of flavor.

The spices included, particularly garlic powder and Italian seasoning, enhance the overall taste, infusing the chicken with warmth and complexity. Adjust the quantity of these seasonings to suit your taste preferences. If you're looking for a more pronounced flavor, consider adding freshly minced garlic or even a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Expert Assembly Tips

As you assemble the sliders, ensure that the buns are evenly saturated with the chicken mixture. This not only helps to flavor the bread but also keeps the sliders from becoming dry. If your buns are particularly fresh or soft, lightly toasting the insides before assembly can provide additional stability and a bit of crunch, enhancing the textural experience once baked.

For a visually appealing dish, consider layering the chicken mixture slightly higher at the center before placing the top halves of the buns. This will allow the cheese to melt beautifully and create a delightful golden-brown topping. Keep an eye on the sliders in the oven; they should be removed as soon as the cheese is bubbling and the tops of the buns become golden, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

These Chicken Parmesan Sliders are best served warm straight from the oven, but they can also be made ahead of time. If preparing in advance, assemble the sliders up until the baking step, cover them with foil, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to enjoy, simply bake them in a preheated oven, potentially adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through.

For storage, leftover sliders can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave for best results. Wrapping them in foil while reheating can help retain moisture and prevent drying out, allowing you to enjoy the cheesy goodness as if they were just baked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders flavorful and satisfying:

For the Sliders

12 slider buns
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go for easy assembly.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your tasty Baked Chicken Parmesan Sliders:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well mixed.

Assemble the Sliders

Cut the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over the bottom halves of the buns.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture, then place the top halves of the buns on.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the buns are golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using a spicy marinara sauce or adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms to the chicken filling.

Flavor Variations

While the classic combination of chicken, marinara, and cheese is delightful, feel free to customize these sliders to suit your taste. For instance, you can incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the chicken mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. Alternatively, try swapping the chicken for shredded cooked sausage for a spicier kick.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using grilled or rotisserie chicken. You could also use whole grain or gluten-free slider buns to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to adjust baking time and temperatures based on the type of buns used.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the sliders are soggy, it could be due to excess moisture in the marinara sauce. To counter this, try straining your sauce before mixing it with the chicken or choose a thicker brand. This will help maintain the right texture of the sliders, ensuring they aren't too wet after baking.

Sometimes, the cheese might not melt properly. Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for optimal meltiness, as preservatives in pre-shredded cheeses can affect texture. Also, watch the baking time closely to avoid overbaking, which can result in a dried-out outcome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time, plus it adds even more flavor.

→ Can I freeze the assembled sliders?

You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking, and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian slider.