Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 cups breadcrumbs; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 8 slider buns; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I absolutely love making Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders for gatherings, as they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara sauce creates the perfect bite-sized treat. My family can't get enough of them! Plus, preparing these sliders is surprisingly simple, making them ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. I often serve them alongside a fresh salad, creating a tasty and balanced meal that everyone enjoys. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:18:29.401Z

Every time I make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders, I’m reminded of the first time I tried them at a local restaurant. I decided to recreate them at home, and after several tweaks, I finally perfected the recipe. The secret is in double-breading the chicken; it adds an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with the mozzarella and marinara.

I’ve found that using fresh herbs in the breadcrumb mixture elevates the flavors significantly. It’s a small change, but it makes a world of difference! These sliders have become a staple in our household, especially for game nights and family gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with tender chicken inside
Rich marinara sauce complements the flavors perfectly
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings
Can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

Mastering the Breaded Chicken

The key to achieving crispy chicken for your sliders lies in the breading process. When setting up your dredging station, make sure the flour is seasoned well with salt and pepper—this base layer enhances the overall flavor of the chicken. Additionally, it's crucial to allow the excess flour to shake off before dipping in the egg; this ensures a proper adhesion of breadcrumbs, leading to a beautiful, crunchy coating once fried.

Another tip for perfecting the breading is to use panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones. Panko creates a lighter and crispier texture, making your sliders even more enjoyable. If you prefer a spiced kick, consider adding some finely grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Assembling for Success

When you are assembling the sliders, it's important not to skimp on the marinara sauce. Spread a generous amount on each bun to ensure that every bite is delightfully tangy and moist. You can also experiment by adding fresh basil or arugula for a touch of freshness and crunch, beautifully balancing the richness of the cheese and fried chicken.

For a gourmet twist, consider adding a layer of roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms between the chicken and cheese. These additions not only enhance the flavor profile but also bring a variety of textures that elevate the slider experience. Remember, the fun part of these sliders is customizing them to fit your family's taste!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs
1 cup marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
8 slider buns
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Make sure to have all ingredients fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the chicken breasts into slider-sized pieces, about ½ inch thick. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Bread the Chicken

Set up three bowls for a dredging station: place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Sliders

On each slider bun, spread a spoonful of marinara sauce, add a piece of fried chicken, top with cheese, and add more marinara. Place them on a baking sheet.

Bake and Serve

Bake the assembled sliders in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm!

Don't forget to experiment with different sauces and toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan before baking. These sliders also freeze well - just bake them and store in an airtight container for up to a month.

Perfect Pairings

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or crispy fries. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a nice acidity that cuts through the richness of the sliders. Additionally, sweet potato fries can add a delicious contrast in flavor and make the meal more colorful. You can also serve them with some garlic knots for a classic Italian touch.

If you want to elevate your sliders even further, consider making a homemade garlic aioli to drizzle on top. The creaminess of the aioli pairs exceptionally well with the crispy chicken and gooey cheese, adding a layer of richness that everyone will appreciate.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time during busy weeknights, you can prep the chicken up to a day in advance. Simply bread the chicken, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. This allows the breading to set, resulting in an even crispier texture when cooked.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to reheat, place the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness, rather than using a microwave, which can make the bread soggy.

Dietary Swaps

For a gluten-free version of the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour with a blend like almond flour or a store-bought gluten-free flour mix. These alternatives still provide a great coating, maintaining the delightful texture of the sliders.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can skip the frying step entirely. Instead, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. Not only is this healthier, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as the chicken cooks in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and breading in advance. Just assemble and bake them before serving.

→ What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can substitute the marinara with pesto or a creamy alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I keep the sliders warm for a party?

Keep them in a warm oven or a slow cooker set to warm until you're ready to serve.