Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are the ultimate party food! They combine gooey cheese, savory garlic, and fresh pesto for a mouthwatering bite. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, these sliders are easy to prepare ahead of time and sure to be a hit at any gathering.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sliders
• How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls
• Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Mixture
• Step 4: Assemble Sliders
• Step 5: Apply Garlic Butter
• Step 6: Bake Sliders
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• For Game Day
• At a Potluck
• Family Dinner
• Outdoor Picnics
• How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Reheating Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?
• How do I make homemade pesto for my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?
• Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
• What should I serve with Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these sliders ready in about 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, pesto, and melted mozzarella creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers or make them the main course—perfect for any occasion!
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe makes 12 sliders, making it ideal for parties or gatherings with friends and family.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prep the sliders in advance and bake them just before serving for a hassle-free experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Brush for applying butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Provides even heating and space to cook all sliders at once.
• Small mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients like garlic butter without mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the rolls quick and easy.
• Brush for applying butter: Ensures even distribution of the garlic butter over the tops of the sliders.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 1 (12-count) package slider rolls
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, minced
• ⅔ cup basil pesto (divided, homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking pan with cooking spray or oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls

Slice the slider rolls horizontally while keeping the tops and bottoms intact. Place the bottom halves into your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stir until well blended. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble Sliders

Spread half of the pesto evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. Layer with shredded chicken followed by mozzarella cheese.

Spread remaining pesto on the cut side of the top halves of the rolls. Place these on top of the cheese layer.

Step 5: Apply Garlic Butter

Brush the tops of the rolls with your garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 6: Bake Sliders

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until cheese is fully melted and tops are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Allow sliders to cool slightly before slicing them into individual pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!

Chef Tips:
– Makes 12 sliders—serves about 6 people (2 sliders each).
– To double this recipe, use a large rimmed baking sheet while maintaining bake time.
– These sliders can be made ahead of time; just bake just before serving. Leftovers reheat well in an oven.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are a delicious and versatile dish that can fit various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

For Game Day

• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair these sliders with ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for a fun twist.
• Add Crunchy Veggies: Include carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices on the side for a refreshing crunch.

At a Potluck

• Create a Slider Bar: Offer toppings like sliced jalapeños, pickles, or fresh basil for guests to customize their sliders.
• Pair with Finger Foods: Serve alongside cheese platters, meatballs, or stuffed mushrooms for an impressive spread.

Family Dinner

• Make it a Meal: Serve with a light salad topped with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sliders.
• Include Sweet Treats: Finish off dinner with something sweet like brownies or cookies to satisfy the whole family.

Outdoor Picnics

• Pack in Portable Containers: Wrap individual sliders in parchment paper for easy transport and less mess.
• Enjoy with Fresh Fruit: Bring along a fruit salad or skewers for a refreshing complement to the savory sliders.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

To make your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, more robust flavor in your garlic butter.
• Perfectly Toasted Rolls: Lightly toast the slider rolls before assembling for added texture and crunch.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano into the pesto for additional layers of flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or pepper jack for unique taste variations.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake; this saves time during busy days.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Pairing your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries tossed in garlic and Parmesan add an extra kick.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp and creamy contrast to the cheesy sliders.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the sliders.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring healthiness and flavor to your plate.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and complements the flavors well.
6. Macaroni Salad: This classic side dish offers creaminess and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the butter mixture: Not using the garlic butter can lead to bland sliders. Always brush the tops with garlic butter for flavor and moisture.
• Overloading on toppings: While cheese and pesto are delicious, too much can make the sliders soggy. Stick to the amounts listed in the recipe for best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven affects cooking time and can result in uneven melting of cheese. Always preheat to 375°F (190°C) beforehand.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting sliders too soon can cause them to fall apart. Let them cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts and better structure.
• Using cold chicken: Cold chicken might not melt the cheese properly. Use warm, shredded chicken for a gooey texture throughout.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking periodically to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat until warm, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

You can easily customize these sliders by adding different cheeses or vegetables. Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes work great with pesto!

How do I make homemade pesto for my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust flavors as needed.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute shredded turkey or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option while still keeping the same delicious flavor profile.

What should I serve with Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair well with a fresh salad, crispy fries, or vegetable sticks for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are an irresistible treat that combines gooey cheese, flavorful garlic, and aromatic pesto into one delightful bite. They are perfect for any occasion—from game day gatherings to quick weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand and enjoy this versatile recipe that is sure to please!