Crispy Chicken Parmesan Slider Stack
Highlighted under: Cozy Classics
I absolutely love making these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Slider Stacks for game nights or casual gatherings. They combine the classic flavors of crispy chicken and marinara sauce, sandwiched between soft slider buns. The best part is that they come together quickly, making them a fantastic option when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Topped off with melted mozzarella cheese, these sliders have become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
When I first tried experimenting with sliders, I knew I wanted to bring the flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a fun, shareable format. After several attempts, I discovered that frying the chicken in breadcrumbs until it's golden and crispy creates a texture that complements the soft buns perfectly. The combination of marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella completes the dish, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
One trick I've learned is to bake the assembled sliders for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bind everything together. This simple step elevates the dish by adding an extra layer of warmth and flavor, ensuring they’re irresistibly good right out of the oven!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken coated in flavorful breadcrumbs
- Melty mozzarella cheese layered on top
- Savory marinara sauce that adds perfect tang
- Easy to make and great for sharing
Perfecting the Chicken
To get that perfect crispy texture, the chicken cutlets need to be coated well in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken after dipping it in the egg; this helps create a thicker crust. Fry the cutlets in hot oil, around 350°F (175°C), for optimal crispiness. Look for a golden-brown color, which generally takes about 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Ensure they’re cooked through by checking for internal temperatures of 165°F (74°C).
Using a combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan adds not only flavor but also enhances the crunch of the chicken. If you don't have seasoned breadcrumbs on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This simple swap won’t compromise the flavor of your chicken.
Assembly Insights
When assembling the sliders, spreading marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the buns is pivotal. It not only keeps the buns moist but also imparts a rich flavor with each bite. Don’t skimp on the cheese layer—using a generous amount of shredded mozzarella ensures a gooey, melty topping that binds everything together. Keeping the buns soft is crucial, so avoid over-toasting them before assembly; you want them fluffy enough to soak up the marinara and hold the filling.
If you're concerned about cheese spilling out during baking, consider using a baking dish with high sides to keep the sliders stable. This also helps create a steaming environment that makes the cheese melt beautifully. Broiling for the last minute gives that appealing golden finish; just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Serving and Storing
These sliders are best enjoyed straight out of the oven while the cheese is oozy and delicious. For gatherings, consider serving them with extra marinara on the side for dipping, which not only enhances the flavor but also visually presents the dish. Pairing them with a light salad or crispy fries can create a well-rounded meal.
If you happen to have leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make the buns soggy. Wrapped tightly, you can also freeze the assembled sliders; just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Slider Stack:
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- Oil for frying
For Assembly
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your sliders:
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Assemble the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Spread marinara sauce on each bun, then layer with fried chicken, mozzarella cheese, and the top halves of the buns.
Bake
Bake the assembled sliders in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-12 minutes. If desired, broil for an additional minute for a golden top.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if using. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños between the layers. Use whole wheat slider buns for a healthier option.
Ingredient Swaps
You can customize the chicken in these sliders to suit your flavor preferences. If you're looking to reduce carbs, try using almond flour mixed with a bit of Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs. This will provide a crunchy coating with a reduced carb count, while still keeping the integrity of that crispy chicken experience.
For a dairy-free version, replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. There are excellent options on the market that mimic the gooey texture of mozzarella, allowing everyone to enjoy these sliders, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Tips for Doneness
Achieving the perfect doneness in chicken can be tricky, especially for novices. Instead of guessing, invest in an instant-read probe thermometer. This tool can benefit any home cook, ensuring that your chicken reaches the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) without drying out. It provides peace of mind and guarantees juicy, tender results.
Visual cues are also important—look for a clear liquid when cutting into one of the cutlets, which indicates they're fully cooked. If you see any pink or if the juices are still red, return it to the skillet for an additional minute or two until done. This will help prevent undercooking without compromising the slider assembly.
Scaling the Recipe
If you're planning to serve a crowd, this recipe scales up beautifully. Simply multiply the ingredient amounts according to the number of sliders you wish to make. Just remember to maintain enough space in your frying pan to avoid crowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cutlets.
For larger batches, consider baking them in a casserole dish instead of individual sliders. Layering rows of cutlets with sauce and cheese can save time while still delivering that satisfying crispy chicken experience. Just keep an eye on the baking time; larger quantities may need an additional few minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking.
→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers or panko for a crunchier texture.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes, freeze the assembled sliders before baking. To cook, just thaw and bake as directed.
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Slider Stack
I absolutely love making these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Slider Stacks for game nights or casual gatherings. They combine the classic flavors of crispy chicken and marinara sauce, sandwiched between soft slider buns. The best part is that they come together quickly, making them a fantastic option when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Topped off with melted mozzarella cheese, these sliders have become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- Oil for frying
For Assembly
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Spread marinara sauce on each bun, then layer with fried chicken, mozzarella cheese, and the top halves of the buns.
Bake the assembled sliders in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-12 minutes. If desired, broil for an additional minute for a golden top.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if using. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños between the layers. Use whole wheat slider buns for a healthier option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 26g