If you are looking for a mouthwatering and crowd-pleasing treat, the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe is the answer. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken marinated in vibrant basil pesto, loaded with melty mozzarella cheese, and tucked inside soft slider buns. The addition of garlic and the subtle zing of lemon mayo make every bite irresistibly delicious. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual parties, these sliders are a simple way to wow your guests with bold flavors and delightful textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using fresh and simple ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, as each one plays a vital role in creating layered flavors and the perfect bite. From the aromatic basil to the creamy mozzarella, every element brings something special to the table.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, the star protein that soaks up the pesto marinade wonderfully.
- Fresh basil leaves: The soul of the pesto, adding a bright, herbal freshness to the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that elevates the pesto’s flavor profile.
- Olive oil: Creates the smooth, luscious texture of the pesto and helps keep the chicken juicy.
- Garlic cloves, minced: A pungent kick that enhances both the pesto and the chicken’s savory taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the ingredients perfectly.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle, warming heat in their dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, bringing gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Slider buns: Soft and slightly sweet, the perfect vessel to hold all those flavors together.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture to the sliders without overpowering other tastes.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the mayo with a refreshing citrus note that cuts through the richness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: For an inviting look and an extra punch of fresh herb aroma on top.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Basil Pesto
Begin by blending fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. The goal is to finely chop the basil to release its bright aroma. Then, slowly drizzle olive oil with the processor running until you get a smooth, creamy pesto that’s bursting with flavor. If you enjoy a little heat, this is the perfect moment to add red pepper flakes. Set this vibrant pesto aside to let all the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large bowl and coat them generously with half of the pesto. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial because the chicken soaks up those fresh, garlicky, and herbal notes that make these sliders extra special.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Once hot, cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and develop a lovely golden crust. After cooking, let the chicken rest a few minutes — resting helps keep it juicy when sliced into thin strips.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Lightly toast the slider buns in the oven for a golden, slightly crisp surface. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise with lemon juice to add a zesty creaminess to your sliders. Spread this mixture on the bottom halves of the buns, layering the sliced chicken on top. Add a spoonful of the leftover pesto, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the chicken. Complete with the bun tops, and get ready for the final bake.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the assembled sliders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle extra pesto over them if you want an extra hit of herbaceous goodness. Cover with foil to seal in moisture and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer. To finish, remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes for a lightly crisped top that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates these sliders like a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. The fresh aromatic leaves add a pop of color and renew that inviting pesto fragrance that gets your appetite roaring.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair wonderfully with crisp side salads that add crunch and balance, or crispy fries for that classic comfort food combo. You can also serve some roasted veggies or lightly dressed greens to keep things fresh and satisfying alongside your cheesy, garlicky sliders.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, arrange your sliders neatly on a wooden serving board or platter. Add small bowls of extra pesto, lemon mayo, and even some pickled veggies to awaken taste buds and let guests customize their bites. You could also serve these sliders alongside a flavorful dipping sauce to amp up the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, preserving their juiciness and flavors so you can enjoy a quick, delicious snack or meal later on.
Freezing
You can freeze the sliders before baking by arranging them on a tray, freezing until firm, and then transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen for a convenient and tasty treat anytime you want.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, cover the sliders with foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F until the cheese is melted again and the chicken is heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain their texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for these sliders?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time—just warm it with some pesto before assembling the sliders, then bake briefly to melt the cheese and meld flavors.
Is it possible to make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your basil pesto up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using for the best texture and flavor.
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese with another type?
Sure! Provolone, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar can be fantastic alternatives that add their own unique twist to the sliders.
How spicy are these sliders with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can omit or adjust the amount based on your personal preference for spice.
Are these sliders suitable for a party menu?
Definitely! Their perfect size, big flavors, and easy handling make the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and casual celebrations.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are a joyful celebration of fresh herbs, savory chicken, and melty cheese that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth and excitement to the table. Give it a try, and watch it vanish in no time!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders combine tender, marinated chicken breasts with a vibrant homemade basil pesto, melted mozzarella cheese, and a tangy lemon-mayo spread. Perfectly toasted slider buns cradle the flavorful layers, making them an ideal crowd-pleaser for gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
For the Pesto and Chicken Marinade
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Sliders
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Pulse several times until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick. Set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl, pour half of the prepared pesto over them, and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- Prepare the Slider Buns: Optionally, toast slider buns in the oven until lightly golden. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise with lemon juice in a small bowl to create a tangy spread.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spread the lemon-mayo mixture generously on the bottom halves of each bun. Layer sliced chicken on top, spoon more pesto over the chicken, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly. Place the top bun half over each slider.
- Bake the Sliders: Arrange sliders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle any remaining pesto over the top if desired. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and becomes bubbly. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden top.
- Serve: Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides, such as fresh salad or crispy fries.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours if time permits.
- Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a softer, creamier melt.
- Slider buns can be replaced with mini brioche or dinner rolls for a richer taste.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
- Leftover sliders can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
