Introduction:
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Mini Sandwiches are a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick family dinner, these mini sandwiches are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want a fun twist on a classic chicken Parmesan dish, these sliders will surely impress.
Overview of the Recipe:
These Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Mini Sandwiches are inspired by the classic Italian-American dish, Chicken Parmesan, but with a convenient, handheld twist. The recipe involves layering shredded chicken mixed with marinara sauce onto slider buns, topping with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and then baking until the cheese is perfectly melted and the buns are golden and crispy. The addition of a garlic butter glaze on top adds extra flavor, making these sliders truly irresistible.
History and Origin:
Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish that traces its roots to the Italian dish “melanzane alla Parmigiana” (eggplant Parmesan). When Italian immigrants brought this dish to the United States, they adapted it by using chicken, which was more readily available. The combination of breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and cheese quickly became a staple in Italian-American cuisine. Over time, this dish has inspired many variations, including these easy-to-make mini sandwiches that capture all the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a convenient, portable form.
Ingredients:
- 12 slider buns
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the sliders are assembled.
- Prepare the Slider Buns:
- Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange them snugly so they fit evenly in the dish.
- Mix Chicken with Marinara:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the slider buns in the baking dish. Make sure to cover each bun with a generous amount of the chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken mixture, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a delicious, cheesy layer that melts beautifully during baking.
- Top with Slider Buns:
- Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese, pressing down slightly to help them adhere.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed in the butter.
- Brush the Buns:
- Use a pastry brush to generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the tops of the slider buns. This will give the sliders a golden, flavorful crust as they bake.
- Bake the Sliders:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the buns from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Finish Baking:
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the buns are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the sliders are done baking, remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve the sliders hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Mini Sandwiches are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With a Side Salad: Pair the sliders with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra marinara sauce or a garlic aioli for dipping.
- As Part of a Party Spread: Include these sliders as part of a larger spread with other finger foods like chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or vegetable platters.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
These mini sandwiches pair well with light, refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade. If you’re serving them as part of a larger meal, consider pairing them with pasta salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For a fun, casual meal, serve them alongside potato chips or fries.
Variations of the Recipe:
There are several ways to customize these Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Mini Sandwiches:
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan Sliders: Add some heat by mixing in red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce with the marinara sauce.
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Toss the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce instead of marinara, and use blue cheese or ranch dressing as a topping.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with breaded eggplant or zucchini slices for a vegetarian take on this recipe.
Health Benefits Notes:
While these sliders are indulgent, there are a few ways to make them slightly healthier:
- Whole Grain Buns: Use whole grain slider buns to add fiber and nutrients.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to cut down on calories and fat.
- Homemade Marinara: Use a homemade marinara sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to control the amount of sugar and salt.
FAQs:
- Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours before baking. Simply cover the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze these sliders?
- Yes, these sliders can be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use rotisserie chicken?
- Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the marinara sauce.
- What can I use instead of slider buns?
- If you don’t have slider buns, you can use dinner rolls, Hawaiian rolls, or even small ciabatta rolls.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Mini Sandwiches are a delicious and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a fun, portable format. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or game day snacks, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is a go-to for anyone looking to whip up a tasty meal in no time. Customize them to your liking with different sauces or toppings, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness with every bite