Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders – Perfectly Savory and Gooey
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, lunch, or dinner that’s both easy and indulgent? These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are a game-changer. Soft, buttery slider buns are filled with tender, shredded chicken tossed in a vibrant garlic pesto, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for that irresistible gooey pull. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep, these sliders are flavorful, filling, and absolutely addictive.
Why You’ll Love These Sliders
- Quick and Easy: Uses pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Flavor-Packed: Garlic pesto adds a fresh, herby punch, balanced by creamy, melty cheese.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even for brunch.
- Party-Ready: Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- Buns: 12 slider buns, split
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Pesto: 1/3 cup garlic pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Butter Garlic Sauce: 4 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, pinch of salt
- Optional Toppings: Fresh basil leaves, extra Parmesan for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken
Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix with garlic pesto until fully coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful. - Assemble Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them connected if using a pull-apart style pan. Layer the bottom buns with shredded chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan. - Add Butter Garlic Topping
Whisk melted butter with garlic powder and salt. Brush generously over the tops of the buns. This adds a rich, golden finish. - Bake Until Cheesy
Place sliders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, until cheese melts and tops are golden brown. - Serve and Enjoy
Optionally garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan. Serve warm for best gooey, cheesy pull.
Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Shred cooked chicken and toss with garlic pesto until coated.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Layer chicken on bottom buns, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Whisk melted butter with garlic powder and salt, then brush over tops of buns.
- Place sliders in baking dish and bake 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
- Optionally garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan and serve warm.
Notes
Tips for the Best Sliders
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use provolone or fontina for a different cheesy flavor.
- Pesto Variations: Sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto works great too.
- Make Ahead: Assemble sliders and store covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
- Buns: Soft brioche slider buns are ideal for a buttery, pillowy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for parties with extra napkins – these sliders can get delightfully cheesy!
- Cut into smaller portions for kid-friendly lunches or snack platters.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of tender chicken, flavorful garlic pesto, and melty cheese is irresistible. Soft slider buns make them easy to pick up, while the buttery garlic topping elevates the flavor to restaurant-quality levels. These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are quick to assemble, visually appealing, and versatile for any occasion.
