Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights
I absolutely love whipping up these crispy chicken Parmesan sliders for a quick and delicious meal! The crunchy coating on the chicken, paired with gooey cheese and a tangy marinara, creates an irresistible combination that everyone enjoys. Making these sliders is as fun as it is satisfying, especially when they come out of the oven perfectly golden. Plus, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in. In just under an hour, you can impress your family or guests with this delightful dish!
When I first decided to create these crispy chicken Parmesan sliders, I knew I wanted something that packed a punch of flavor while being easy to make. After a few trials, I discovered that a blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for the coating was the secret to that perfect crunch! Baking them instead of frying also keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing that satisfying crisp.
The sliders turned out to be an instant hit at my last gathering. Watching everyone enjoy them while diving into the gooey cheese and savory marinara was such a joy. I recommend serving them warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Crispy chicken coated in flavorful Parmesan crust
- Melted mozzarella adds rich, creamy texture
- Easy to assemble and perfect for gatherings
Choosing the Right Chicken
When making crispy chicken Parmesan sliders, selecting the right cut of chicken is crucial. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly and remain juicy when baked. For a more flavorful option, consider using chicken thighs, which will add a richer taste and tenderness. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs may require an extra few minutes in the oven.
A tip for ensuring your chicken remains juicy is to avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). I usually bake them until they are beautifully golden brown, which not only looks appealing but also indicates they are done without drying them out.
Mastering the Coating
The coating on your chicken is essential for that satisfying crunch. Ensuring each chicken breast is thoroughly coated in flour before moving on to the egg and breadcrumb mixture helps the layers stick together. When combining breadcrumbs with Parmesan, opt for fresh breadcrumbs for a more delightful texture. They provide better adhesion and a more substantial crunch compared to store-bought options.
Another important technique is to press the breadcrumb mixture into the chicken firmly. This helps the crumbs cling during baking, resulting in a thicker crust. If you’re looking to add a kick, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy variation.
Making Ahead and Serving Suggestions
If you want to save time on busy days, you can prepare the chicken in advance. Coat the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste. Just pop them in the oven right before dinner for a crispy, fresh meal without the last-minute rush.
For serving, these sliders can be accompanied by a fresh salad or crispy chips for a complete meal. I also like to offer additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping to enhance that flavorful experience. Moreover, you can customize the toppings with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to elevate your sliders.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Crispy Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sliders Assembly Ingredients
- 8 slider buns
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s move on to making these delicious sliders!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect crispy chicken Parmesan sliders:
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the flour with salt and pepper in one bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan in another bowl. Dip each chicken breast first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they're well-coated.
Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil over them. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Assemble the Sliders
Once the chicken is done, let it cool slightly before slicing it into slider-sized pieces. Place the chicken on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Top each piece with a slice of mozzarella and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
Serve and Enjoy
Optionally, return the assembled sliders to the oven briefly to melt the cheese further. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy these delicious crispy chicken Parmesan sliders warm!
Now you’re ready to indulge in these sliders that everyone will love!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs for a few hours before breading. You can also substitute the marinara with pesto for a different twist!
Storing and Freezing Sliders
These crispy chicken Parmesan sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the sliders soggy and lose that delightful crunch.
If you want to freeze the assembled sliders, wrap each one tightly in foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven, allowing for a quick and delicious meal without sacrificing texture.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to modify this recipe according to your dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers can work beautifully as replacements, providing a different yet tasty texture for the coating.
If you're looking to reduce dairy, consider using dairy-free cheese for melting. Products like cashew-based mozzarella melt well and complement the marinara sauce, allowing you to enjoy these sliders without sacrificing flavor. Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bread it in advance. Just bake it fresh right before serving.
→ What type of buns work best?
Any slider-sized buns will do, but soft brioche or whole wheat buns add a nice touch.
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and tenderness to your sliders.
→ What can I substitute for Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative for a sharper flavor.
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
I absolutely love whipping up these crispy chicken Parmesan sliders for a quick and delicious meal! The crunchy coating on the chicken, paired with gooey cheese and a tangy marinara, creates an irresistible combination that everyone enjoys. Making these sliders is as fun as it is satisfying, especially when they come out of the oven perfectly golden. Plus, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in. In just under an hour, you can impress your family or guests with this delightful dish!
Created by: Noah
Recipe Type: Oven-Baked Delights
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Crispy Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sliders Assembly Ingredients
- 8 slider buns
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the flour with salt and pepper in one bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan in another bowl. Dip each chicken breast first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they're well-coated.
Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil over them. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Once the chicken is done, let it cool slightly before slicing it into slider-sized pieces. Place the chicken on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Top each piece with a slice of mozzarella and a spoonful of marinara sauce. Close the sliders with the top half of the buns.
Optionally, return the assembled sliders to the oven briefly to melt the cheese further. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy these delicious crispy chicken Parmesan sliders warm!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs for a few hours before breading. You can also substitute the marinara with pesto for a different twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g