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
Scale
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.
