Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe is a delightful treat that combines juicy chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.
What You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Complete Ingredients List
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 12 slider buns
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions, here are some swaps:
- Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free option.
- Swap chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter version.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Making these sliders is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the marinara sauce.
Step 4: Toast the Slider Buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
On the bottom half of each toasted slider bun, place a generous amount of the shredded chicken and marinara mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled sliders back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the sliders from the oven and add fresh basil leaves on top. Place the top half of the buns on each slider and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
These sliders are best served warm. You can arrange them on a platter for a beautiful presentation. For added flair, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
Consider serving these sliders with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. You can also offer extra marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the flavor even more!
Storing & Preserving Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Best Storage Methods
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the buns to keep them fresh.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove. If you want to freeze, place the chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders Every Time
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it can become dry.
- Ensure the sauce covers the chicken well for even cooking.
Helpful Tricks for Success
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onion to the slow cooker. You can also toast the buns lightly before assembling for a crunchy texture.
Fun Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Mix things up by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the chicken mixture. You can also experiment with different sauces, like pesto, for a unique twist.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or jackfruit and use vegan cheese. For a low-carb option, serve the chicken mixture in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
FAQs
What If My Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders Don’t Turn Out Right?
If your sliders are too dry, it may be due to overcooking. Always check the chicken’s doneness and adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein. Additionally, feel free to use different cheeses or sauces to suit your taste.
PrintSlow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Sliders
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delightful treat that combines juicy chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 12 slider buns
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the marinara sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half, brush the cut sides with olive oil, and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
- On the bottom half of each toasted slider bun, place a generous amount of the shredded chicken and marinara mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the assembled sliders back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the sliders from the oven, add fresh basil leaves on top, place the top half of the buns on each slider, and serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, place the chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker, Chicken Parmesan, Sliders, Easy Recipe, Italian Cuisine