If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing bite that bursts with flavor, the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in vibrant basil pesto, layered with melty mozzarella, and nestled inside soft slider buns. This dish is an irresistible combination of creamy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness, perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at your next gathering. Once you try these sliders, they’ll quickly become a beloved go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great food starts with quality ingredients, and this Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe is no exception. Each component brings something crucial to the table—whether it’s the freshness of basil, the richness of Parmesan, or the gooey cheese that makes each bite cozy and satisfying.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that will soak up all those gorgeous pesto flavors.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves: Freshness and vibrant green color make your pesto pop with life.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty depth that’s essential in classic pesto.
- 1/2 cup olive oil: Brings smooth richness and helps unify all the pesto ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the pesto its signature flavorful punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick if you love some spice with your cheese and chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted mozzarella is the cheesy hug that pulls the sliders together.
- 12 slider buns: Soft, pillowy buns cradle all the fillings perfectly.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Keeps the sliders moist and adds a creamy tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Cuts through richness and brightens the mayo for a fresh finish.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: A pretty, aromatic touch to finish off your sliders.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Make the Pesto
Start by pulsing basil leaves, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor until everything is finely chopped. Then, slowly drizzle in olive oil to get that wonderfully smooth and creamy pesto sauce. If you’re a fan of a little heat, this is the perfect moment to add your red pepper flakes before setting the pesto aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your chicken breasts in a large bowl and coat them generously with half of the pesto you just made. Let the chicken soak in those flavors for 15 to 20 minutes—this step ensures every bite is bursting with herby garlicky magic.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add your marinated chicken breasts. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they’re golden and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, let the chicken rest before slicing it thinly—this keeps it juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Sliders
While the chicken rests, if you want, toast your slider buns in the oven until they’re just golden. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with lemon juice—it’s a simple combination that adds a lovely zesty creaminess. Spread this on the bottom halves of your buns before layering on sliced chicken, a spoonful of remaining pesto, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection
Assemble your sliders by topping with the other halves of buns, placing them all on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle a little more pesto over the sliders if you like, then cover with foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. For that irresistible golden crust, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes. Let the sliders cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves do wonders here, adding a pop of green and a fragrant finish that makes these sliders feel extra special. You could also sprinkle a light dusting of extra Parmesan for a salty, cheesy boost.
Side Dishes
These sliders shine alongside crisp, fresh salads or crunchy fries. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the cheese and pesto beautifully. For a heartier meal, try roasted vegetables or even homemade sweet potato fries.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your sliders on a wooden board or colorful platter to highlight their inviting look. Adding small bowls of extra pesto for dipping can enhance the experience. You can even add toothpicks topped with basil or cherry tomatoes for a bit of flair, making them a perfect party platter centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe, pack any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes for a fantastic quick lunch or snack the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they’re heated through.
Reheating
To bring your sliders back to life, bake them uncovered in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the cheese melt beautifully again without making the buns soggy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy and unevenly warm.
FAQs
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to keep it vibrant and fresh until you’re ready to use it.
Is there a substitute for mozzarella cheese?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a similar melt and mild flavor. If you want something with more bite, try a sharp cheddar, but keep in mind this will change the classic taste.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for the sliders?
Definitely! Using leftover or rotisserie chicken can save time. Just toss the cooked chicken with the pesto, then layer and bake as usual for a quick and tasty meal.
How spicy are these sliders with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can always leave them out if you prefer mild flavors or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
What type of slider buns work best?
Soft, slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian rolls or classic white slider buns complement the rich flavors and gooey cheese beautifully by providing a tender, slightly sweet base.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe—it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, simple yet impressive. Whether you’re feeding a party crowd or treating your own family, these sliders are guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make some unforgettable slider magic!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe perfect for gatherings. Juicy chicken breasts marinated in homemade basil pesto are cooked to perfection, layered with creamy mozzarella and a tangy lemon-mayo spread, then baked inside soft slider buns. These sliders offer a delicious combination of garlic, fresh basil, and melted cheese that will delight any crowd.
Ingredients
For the Pesto and Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sliders
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 slider buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Pulse a few times until the basil is finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and creamy. Add red pepper flakes if desired and set aside.
- Marinate the chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts in a large bowl and coat evenly with half of the prepared pesto. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and let rest before slicing thinly.
- Prepare slider buns: Optionally toast the slider buns in the oven until lightly golden. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and lemon juice to create a tangy spread.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread the mayonnaise mixture generously on the bottom half of each bun. Layer sliced chicken on top, spoon additional pesto, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the top half of the buns.
- Bake the sliders: Arrange sliders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle remaining pesto over sliders if desired. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts. Remove foil and bake another 5 minutes for a golden top.
- Serve: Allow sliders to cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm with side dishes like fresh salad or crispy fries.
Notes
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- To keep sliders moist during baking, cover with foil before melting the cheese.
- Using fresh basil and garlic in the pesto greatly enhances flavor compared to pre-made sauces.
- Resting cooked chicken before slicing helps retain juiciness.
- Slider buns can be toasted in the oven or on a skillet to add texture.
