Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 4 slices mozzarella cheese; 4 slider buns; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of juicy and crunchy chicken with melted cheese and zesty marinara sauce creates a comfort food experience like no other. These sliders are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them an ideal choice for entertaining guests or satisfying a late-night craving. Once I discovered the secret to perfectly breaded chicken, it changed my slider game forever. The result? A delightful treat that leaves everyone asking for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T23:18:31.477Z

When I first tried my hand at creating sliders, I knew I wanted to capture the essence of classic chicken parmesan. Armed with fresh ingredients and a passion for cooking, I experimented with different breading techniques until I got the perfect crunch. The secret lies in using panko breadcrumbs combined with Italian herbs, which gives a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with tender chicken.

I remember serving these sliders at a family BBQ, and the response was overwhelming! Everyone was intrigued by the layers of flavor and the crispiness of the chicken. One tip I always share is to let the sliders rest for a few minutes after baking—they’ll be easier to handle and even more delightful!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        The perfect balance of crispy and tender textures.
Flavor-packed with zesty marinara and gooey cheese.
Quick and easy to make for any occasion.

      

Achieving the Perfect Crunch

To truly achieve the crunch that makes these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders stand out, the choice of breadcrumbs is crucial. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, creating that delightful texture once baked. If you're unable to find panko, you can make your own by processing stale bread in a food processor until coarse. Additionally, ensure the chicken is well-coated in the breadcrumb mixture to achieve an even crunch. A light spray of cooking oil before baking will further enhance this crispiness.

The baking technique also plays a significant role in the outcome of the chicken. Use a wire rack set on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that golden-brown finish. Be sure to keep an eye on the chicken in the oven; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while developing a beautiful golden color on the crust. Over-baking can lead to dryness, so set a timer to check at the 15-minute mark.

Flavor Enhancements and Customizations

While this recipe features classic marinara and mozzarella, you can customize the flavors to make these sliders your own. Add a touch of crushed red pepper to the marinara sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat. Alternatively, mixing in some fresh herbs, such as oregano or thyme, can elevate the overall flavor profile. For a gourmet twist, try using a blend of cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, to bring different melting characteristics and flavors to your sliders.

If you're looking for a lower-carb option, consider substituting the slider buns with large lettuce leaves for a gluten-free alternative. You can also use almond flour to create a keto-friendly breading for the chicken. Just ensure that you follow the same coating method to maintain that delicious crispy exterior. Feel free to experiment with the toppings as well; adding a slice of avocado or fresh arugula can infuse the sliders with a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

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

For the Sliders

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce
4 slices mozzarella cheese
4 slider buns
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets and season them with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Breading the Chicken

In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

Cooking the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the chicken is cooked, preheat the broiler. On each slider bun, layer marinara sauce, the chicken cutlet, mozzarella cheese, and top with another bun. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve while hot. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders!

These sliders are a fantastic addition to any meal or just a great snack to share!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for a few hours before breading. This adds juiciness and tenderness to the chicken.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders are perfect for batch cooking! You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze the breaded cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. This will help prevent them from sticking together. When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until they're golden brown and crisp.

If you have leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If you use a microwave, they may lose some of their crunchiness, so I recommend the oven for the best results.

Suggestions for Serving

To complement the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders, consider serving them with a side of garlic bread or a light salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken, balancing the meal perfectly. For a unique touch, you might even serve these sliders alongside a small bowl of extra marinara sauce as a dipping option, adding flavor and fun to the experience.

Additionally, you can elevate the occasion by providing a variety of toppings on the side, such as pickled jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers that guests can add to their sliders. This interactive element not only enhances the meal but also caters to different taste preferences, ensuring that everyone at your gathering will have a customizable and satisfying experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the sliders.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a side salad, fries, or even onion rings.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to cater to gluten intolerance.