Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining gooey cheese, aromatic garlic, and vibrant pesto into a perfect party bite. Ideal for game days, casual gatherings, or busy weeknight dinners, these sliders are easy to prepare ahead of time and will vanish from the platter in no time. Their unique flavors and comforting textures make them a must-try for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a simple list of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, pesto, and melted cheese creates a savory taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these sliders suit any event—be it a birthday party or a cozy family dinner.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the sliders in advance and bake them just before serving, saving you time during busy occasions.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the types of cheese or add your favorite toppings to personalize each slider.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Brush for butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan (9×13-inch): This size is perfect for baking all 12 sliders at once without overcrowding.
• Small mixing bowl: Ideal for mixing the garlic butter evenly without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing rolls cleanly without tearing them apart.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders:

For the Sliders

• 1 (12-count) package slider rolls
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, minced
• ⅔ cup basil pesto (divided, homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your sliders cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside. This will prevent the sliders from sticking.

Step 3: Slice the Slider Rolls

Slice the slider rolls horizontally like sandwich buns while keeping the tops and bottoms connected. This helps retain moisture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bottom Layer

Place the bottom halves of the rolls in the prepared pan.

Step 5: Make Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 6: Add Pesto and Chicken

Spread half of the pesto evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Layer on the shredded chicken followed by mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Complete Assembly

Spread the remaining pesto over the cut side of the top half of the rolls. Place them atop the layered chicken and cheese.

Step 8: Brush with Garlic Butter

Brush the tops of the rolls generously with your garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 9: Bake

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Then remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes until cheese is fully melted and tops are golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders. Serve warm for maximum cheesiness!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are a delicious and versatile addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, there are plenty of creative ways to serve them.

Casual Gathering

• Platter Style: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for guests to help themselves. This creates a relaxed atmosphere.
• Individual Wrapping: Wrap each slider in parchment paper for a fun, portable option. Perfect for outdoor events!

Game Day Treat

• Buffalo Sauce Drizzle: Offer buffalo sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their sliders.
• Dipping Sauces: Provide various dipping sauces like ranch or marinara to complement the cheesy goodness.

Family Dinner

• Vegetable Sides: Pair the sliders with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries for a tasty and hearty side that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Perfecting these sliders ensures they are always a hit at your gatherings. Here are a few tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use homemade pesto if possible. It enhances the flavor and freshness of your sliders.
• Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for added flavor variations.
• Even Layering: Ensure even distribution of chicken and cheese for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the sliders to cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain their structure.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; you may want to add more salt or pepper based on personal preference.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

These sliders pair wonderfully with several sides, making your meal complete. Here’s a list of tasty options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks complement the garlic flavors in the sliders.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the sliders’ richness.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the cheesy goodness of the sliders.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned wedges make for a hearty side that everyone enjoys.
5. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits provides a sweet, refreshing contrast to savory flavors.
6. Pickle Chips: Add some zing with crunchy pickle chips for those who enjoy tangy bites alongside their meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked just right before shredding. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough in the sliders.
• Using stale rolls: Fresh slider rolls are key for great flavor and texture. Always use fresh rolls for the best results.
• Skipping the garlic butter: This mixture adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; it elevates your sliders immensely.
• Not letting them cool: Allowing the sliders to cool slightly makes slicing easier and prevents them from falling apart.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall taste. Don’t skip this step!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

You can add different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers.

Can I make these Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them fully and then bake just before serving. This saves time during gatherings.

What should I serve with Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

They pair well with a fresh salad, fries, or even some crispy veggies for a balanced meal.

Are there vegetarian options for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with grilled vegetables, or even mushrooms, and keep all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner, they offer endless customization options to fit your taste. Give them a try, and you’ll see why they’re sure to become a favorite!