Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Slider buns; Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I love making these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders for quick weeknight dinners or game day snacks. The crunch from the chicken and the gooey melted cheese creates a delightful combination that everyone enjoys. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these sliders are both satisfying and easy to prepare. I usually serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which elevates the flavor even more. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they will become a go-to recipe in your household!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-06T20:17:27.965Z

When I first tried making these sliders, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they were. The secret to the crispy chicken is the double breading method, where I dip the chicken in flour, then egg, and finally panko breadcrumbs. This not only gives the chicken a wonderful crunch but also helps it hold onto the marinara and cheese beautifully.

Over the years, I’ve experimented by adding a touch of garlic powder to the breading for an extra punch of flavor. These sliders are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. You can even customize them by adding your favorite toppings like fresh basil or spicy peppers!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Crispy, golden-brown chicken with a succulent bite
Melty cheese and tangy marinara transform ordinary sliders into a feast
Great for parties or a simple family dinner, perfect for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

The choice of chicken breasts is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness in your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are uniform in size, ideally around 6-8 ounces each. This ensures they cook evenly. If you find large breasts, consider slicing them in half horizontally for quicker cooking and to maintain a nice, juicy texture.

For a healthier alternative, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful, which can enhance your sliders. Just keep in mind that they may take a minute longer to cook through, so always check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety.

Perfecting the Breading Technique

The breading process is a key step in achieving that irresistible crunch. When setting up your breading station, try to use one hand for wet ingredients (the eggs) and another for dry (the flour and breadcrumbs). This reduces clumping and helps create a better coating. Additionally, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly will give it a thicker, crunchier layer once baked.

If you're looking for added flavor in your breadcrumbs, consider mixing in grated Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs like oregano and thyme. This not only enhances the taste but provides an inviting aroma as they bake. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with ground almonds or gluten-free panko.

Serving Suggestions and Customizations

While these sliders are fantastic on their own, serving them with a side of marinara sauce elevates the experience. You can also customize by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top of the chicken before serving for a touch of sweetness.

For meal prep, consider making a larger batch and freezing individual sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare delicious Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders:

For the Sliders

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Slider buns
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders:

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Breading Setup

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken breast first in flour, then in the egg, and finally in the panko, ensuring an even coating.

Bake the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Near the end, spoon marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, returning to the oven just until the cheese melts.

Assemble the Sliders

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice the slider buns and place a piece of the cheesy chicken on each bun. If desired, add fresh basil before closing the sliders.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creation!

These steps will help you achieve the perfect Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider frying the breaded chicken in a skillet before baking. You can also make the sliders in advance and reheat them in the oven for a quick meal option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After enjoying your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their texture. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked sliders for up to 3 months.

When reheating, avoid the microwave as it can make the breading soggy. Instead, bake the sliders in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore that crunchiness you loved when they were first made.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! While mozzarella is classic, provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses can provide an exciting twist. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce under the cheese before baking.

These sliders can also be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken with breaded eggplant slices or zucchini rounds. Simply slice and bread the vegetables as you would the chicken, and adjust baking times according to their thickness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy, just ensure they're cooked through.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Besides mozzarella, you could use provolone or even a sprinkle of parmesan for added flavor.