Quick Chicken Parm Sliders

These indulgent sliders transform classic chicken Parmesan into perfect party-sized bites, combining crispy chicken tenders, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese on soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for game day or casual entertaining, these sliders deliver all the comfort of traditional chicken Parmesan in an easy-to-serve format. I discovered this recipe while looking for a way to make party food that was both elegant and approachable.

Last weekend, I served these at a family gathering, and the aroma of garlic butter and marinara had everyone hovering in the kitchen waiting for them to come out of the oven. They disappeared within minutes.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Hawaiian Rolls - Sweet rolls provide perfect flavor balance
• Chicken Tenders - Pre-breaded saves time
• Pasta Sauce - Quality marinara makes a difference
• Mozzarella & Parmesan - Use both for best flavor
• Garlic Butter - Creates irresistible topping

The magic happens when the garlic butter topping bakes into the rolls while two kinds of cheese melt around the sauce-covered chicken.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start oven at 350°F. Thoroughly grease your 9x13 baking dish, making sure to coat sides to prevent sticking. Let butter soften at room temperature while oven heats.

Step 2: Prepare Rolls

Using a large serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of rolls horizontally, keeping them connected. Take care to keep the cut even for uniform sliders.

Step 3: Layer Bottom Base

Place bottom half of connected rolls in greased dish. Press gently to ensure they're level and touching each other for even baking.

Step 4: Position Chicken

Arrange pre-cooked chicken tenders in a single layer, cutting pieces if needed to ensure complete coverage. Each slider should have equal amounts of chicken.

Step 5: Add Sauce Layer

Using a spoon, carefully spread marinara sauce evenly over chicken, about 2-3 tablespoons per slider. Leave a small border around edges to prevent overflow.

Step 6: Create Cheese Layer

In a bowl, thoroughly mix shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Sprinkle cheese mixture evenly, ensuring complete coverage including edges where sauce might be lighter.

Step 7: Prepare Butter Mixture

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in microwave (30 seconds, then 10-second intervals if needed). Whisk in garlic powder and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Step 8: Add Top Layer

Carefully place top half of rolls onto cheese layer. Don't press down too firmly - this helps maintain texture.

Step 9: Apply Butter Topping

Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of rolls with seasoned butter mixture. Ensure even coverage, paying special attention to edges which can dry out.

Step 10: Bake in Stages

Cover tightly with foil (not touching tops of rolls). Bake 10 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake additional 10 minutes until tops are golden and cheese is completely melted.

Step 11: Final Steps

Remove from oven and let rest 3-5 minutes before cutting. Use sharp serrated knife, wiping blade between cuts for clean slices.

Step 12: Serve

Transfer immediately to serving platter. Optional: provide extra warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Pin it

Entertaining Excellence

Having mastered numerous slider recipes, I've found these chicken Parmesan sliders to be uniquely suited for entertaining. The combination of familiar Italian flavors with easy-to-eat portions makes them perfect for any gathering, from casual game days to more formal parties. The garlic butter topping adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates them above ordinary sliders.

Timing Is Everything

While make-ahead options are limited (to prevent soggy buns), you can streamline preparation by cooking the chicken in advance and reheating it just before assembly. This allows you to focus on other party preparations while still serving hot, fresh sliders. The key is ensuring the chicken is warm when it goes into the assembly - this helps the cheese melt perfectly during baking.

Pin it

Beyond Basic Assembly

Don't be afraid to customize these sliders to your taste. Try different marinara sauces, experiment with cheese blends, or add extra seasonings to the butter topping. The basic formula stays the same, but the variations are endless. I've even made a spicy version with pepper Jack cheese and red pepper flakes that was equally popular.

Chef's Essential Tips

• Arrange chicken to cover rolls completely
• Don't oversauce to prevent sogginess
• Cover with foil for first half of baking
• Let rest 5 minutes before cutting
• Serve while still warm for best texture

Pin it

These chicken Parmesan sliders have become my go-to party food. The combination of crispy chicken, melty cheese, and garlic butter creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears quickly at any gathering.

Final Tips

• Double recipe for larger crowds
• Have extra marinara for dipping
• Cut with sharp serrated knife for clean slices
• Keep warm in low oven if needed
• Garnish with fresh basil for extra appeal

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade chicken tenders?

Yes, any cooked breaded chicken works well.

→ What's the best pasta sauce to use?

Any marinara or tomato-based pasta sauce works well.

→ Can I make these ahead?

Assemble ahead but add butter mixture just before baking.

→ Why cover with foil first?

Prevents tops from burning while heating through.

→ Can I freeze these?

Not recommended as bread texture may suffer.