These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are little flavor bombs! Each bite is packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and tasty pesto. Perfect for a fun meal or snack!
Honestly, who can say no to garlic and cheese? These sliders make me feel like a master chef, and they’re so easy to whip up—even on a busy day!
I love serving these sliders with a simple salad on the side. It makes a great weeknight dinner, and I can’t resist sneaking a few extra for lunch the next day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a great time-saver, and it’s super flavorful! If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, feel free to use cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Shredding your own cooked chicken is also an option if you want to control the seasoning.
Pesto: Between store-bought and homemade, both work well. Store-bought is convenient, but if you have fresh basil, olive oil, nuts, and Parmesan handy, making your own can really elevate the flavor. You can also swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey texture. Parmesan adds a nice salty bite, but you can replace it with pecorino romano if you’re looking for something sharper. Vegan cheese alternatives can also work if you’re dairy-free!
Mayonnaise: This binds everything together and adds creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use a dairy-free mayo for a vegan version.
Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, but any slider bun or small sandwich roll will do. You can even use whole grain or gluten-free buns if that suits your dietary needs.
How Can I Make Sure My Sliders Stay Moist and Tasty?
A key to keeping your sliders moist and packed with flavor is the chicken mixture. Make sure to mix the cooked chicken, pesto, cheeses, and mayonnaise thoroughly, as this ensures every bite is flavorful. Baking them covered helps steam the buns, preserving moisture.
- Start by combining the chicken and other ingredients in a large bowl, mixing until it’s really well blended.
- Don’t shy away from salt and pepper; season according to your taste, especially since the cheese can add saltiness.
- When spreading your mixture on the buns, be generous to ensure everyone gets a bunch of that tasty filling.
Lastly, getting that perfect golden color is all about the final uncovered bake. Just keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning! Enjoy your sliders warm for the best taste!
Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Buns:
- 12 slider buns (such as Hawaiian rolls)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to whip up these delicious sliders. Get ready to enjoy your cheesy, garlic-filled treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your sliders go in.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, pesto, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the tasty filling for your sliders!
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish. Then, spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Once it’s well spread, place the top halves of the buns on top. Simple!
4. Prepare the Butter Garlic Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and garlic powder. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the tops of the buns. This will add a delicious flavor to the top of your sliders.
5. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for the tops to turn golden brown and the cheese to be perfectly melted.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sliders cool slightly before garnishing them with chopped parsley. Serve warm, and enjoy your cheesy garlic pesto chicken sliders with friends and family!
Can I Substitute the Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use cooked chicken breast or thighs, either shredded or diced. For a vegetarian option, consider using roasted vegetables or a plant-based chicken substitute to keep that delicious texture!
How Can I Make These Sliders Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture. You can also use a spicy pesto or a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and cheesy again.
Can I Prepare These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
