Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 4 slider buns; 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I love how these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sliders combine the best of comfort food with a fun twist. Each slider features a perfectly breaded chicken breast topped with zesty marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, all nestled in a soft slider bun. They are not only crowd-pleasers but also quick to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. I can’t resist their flavorful crunch, and I’m excited to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T23:46:30.922Z

When I first made these sliders, I wasn’t sure how well the crispy chicken would hold up in a sandwich format. To my delight, the breading was just perfect, staying crunchy even after baking! I tested out different sauces until I landed on the ideal marinara that complements the chicken's flavor without overpowering it.

One tip I can share is to ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this helps achieve that golden-brown crust. I find that a mix of Italian breadcrumbs and panko results in the perfect texture once fried. These sliders have become a staple in my home!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Perfectly crispy chicken with a cheesy topping
A delightful blend of Italian flavors in a simple slider format
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences

      

Mastering the Breaded Chicken

Achieving the perfect crispy chicken is crucial for these sliders. It's important to use panko breadcrumbs, as they provide a light and airy crunch that holds up nicely against the juicy chicken and melty cheese. When breading, ensure that the chicken is well-coated in the egg wash before rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture; this helps create an even crust. Letting the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying helps set the coating, resulting in a crispier finish.

Temperature control during frying is key. Heat the olive oil over medium heat; too high, and you'll risk burning the crumbs before the chicken is fully cooked. A good indicator that the oil is ready is when it shimmers slightly. Fry the chicken pieces for about 5-6 minutes per side. They should reach a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you find your coating isn't browning as desired, gently turn the heat up but keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.

Perfecting Your Sauce and Cheese Layer

The marinara sauce is what elevates these sliders from good to great. A homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara can make a significant difference in flavor. If you're short on time, consider adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to your marinara for extra depth. Spread a generous layer on each slider bun to help moisten the bread while also delivering bold Italian flavors. If you're a fan of garlic, a sprinkle of garlic powder to the sauce can add a fantastic twist.

For the cheese layer, using fresh mozzarella provides a wonderfully gooey texture, but you can also substitute with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese if you're accommodating dietary needs. Mozzarella takes on a lovely stretch when melted, making each bite satisfying. Be sure to cover the chicken entirely with cheese before baking to prevent the sliders from drying out. Bake until the cheese is bubbly—about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C)—for the best results.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
2 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Enjoy your sliders!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breast halves with salt and pepper. Dip each piece in the beaten egg, then coat them in a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Fry the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Sliders

On each slider bun, spread a generous amount of marinara sauce, add a piece of crispy chicken, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to mix herbs like oregano or basil into the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. Serving these sliders with a side of extra marinara for dipping is also a hit!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, these crispy sliders can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crunch, avoid stacking them; instead, keep them in a single layer. When reheating, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior. A microwave is convenient but might make the bread soggy, so it’s best to use an oven or toaster oven for reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the breaded chicken separately before frying. Simply freeze the breaded pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once solid. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, there's no need to thaw—just fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time, ensuring they're cooked through and crispy.

Customizing Your Sliders

These sliders offer incredible flexibility for customization. You can easily swap out the chicken for eggplant or zucchini slices for a vegetarian version, using the same breading technique. Just ensure that any vegetables are adequately salted and squeezed to remove excess moisture before breading. Additionally, consider experimenting with different sauces such as pesto or alfredo if you want to switch up the classic marinara base.

Don’t shy away from adding toppings in the slider assembly stage. A layer of fresh basil or spinach adds a pop of color and freshness. You might also consider provolone or gouda cheese for a unique twist, or even spicy pepper jack if you prefer a little heat. The key is to keep balancing flavors while maintaining the moisture and texture that make these sliders so appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh chicken for optimal flavor and texture, but if using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before breading.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?

You can use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I make these sliders healthier?

You can bake the chicken instead of frying and use whole grain slider buns for a healthier alternative.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can bread the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the fridge until you are ready to fry and assemble the sliders.