If you’re looking for a way to elevate your game day snacks or simply want to indulge in something deliciously cheesy, these Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders are the answer. Picture this: soft, pillowy pizza crust enveloping crispy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and zesty pizza sauce, all topped with pepperoni. Perfectly sized for sharing, these sliders are an exciting twist on two beloved classics: chicken parmesan and pizza. They come together quickly and are a surefire way to impress friends and family alike. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get started!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients. Second, they bring together the flavors of chicken parmesan and pizza, which means you’re getting the best of both worlds in each bite. Finally, they are perfect for a crowd; whether it’s a game day party, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders are versatile and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Shopping List
To make these delightful Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cans Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust
- 12 fully cooked breaded chicken breast chunks or chicken nuggets
- 3/4 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)
- 24 slices pepperoni
- Additional pizza sauce for dipping
Equipment at a Glance
- Oven: For baking the sliders to golden perfection.
- Baking sheet: To hold the assembled sliders as they bake.
- Mixing bowl: A small bowl for combining ingredients if needed.
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife: For slicing the sliders after baking.
The Method for Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking the breaded chicken breast chunks or chicken nuggets according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly. This will ensure they are crispy and flavorful when incorporated into the sliders.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the sliders to a delightful golden brown.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Crust
Open the cans of Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust and unroll them onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to flatten the crusts slightly, making them easier to work with.
Step 4: Assemble the Bottom Layer
Place one of the rolled-out pizza crusts on a baking sheet. This will serve as the base for your sliders.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
Spread 3/4 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the pizza crust. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top of the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese, and then top with any remaining mozzarella.
Step 6: Cover with the Second Crust
Carefully place the second pizza crust on top of the layered ingredients. You can gently press down to ensure everything is compact.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve warm, accompanied by additional pizza sauce for dipping.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these easy swaps:
- Use whole wheat pizza crust for a healthier option.
- Swap out mozzarella for provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Try turkey or veggie nuggets instead of traditional chicken for a lighter version.
- Opt for homemade pizza sauce if you want to avoid preservatives.
Missteps & Fixes
Cooking can sometimes go awry. Here are some common missteps you might encounter, along with tips to fix them:
- If the top crust is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
- If the sliders seem a bit dry, consider adding a bit more pizza sauce before baking.
- For extra crispiness, bake on the lower rack of the oven for the first half of the cooking time, then move to the upper rack to finish browning.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious these sliders are!), you can easily store them.
- Allow the sliders to cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Reader Q&A
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders, cover them, and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair beautifully with a fresh salad, garlic knots, or even a side of vegetable sticks and dip.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
How do I make these sliders vegetarian?
Simply substitute the chicken with your favorite meatless nuggets or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and follow the same method.
Serve with These
To complete your meal, consider serving your Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders with:
Bring It to the Table
These Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders are perfect for gatherings, casual family dinners, or even a cozy movie night at home. Their fun, finger-food style makes them easy to share, and the combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the gooey cheese, crispy chicken, and tasty sauce in each delicious bite. Gather your loved ones and dig in—these sliders are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!
Chicken Parmesan Pizza Sliders
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 2 cans Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust
- 12 fully cooked breaded chicken breast chunks or chicken nuggets
- 3/4 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 oz)
- 24 slices pepperoni
- Additional pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
Preparation Steps:
- Start by cooking the breaded chicken breast chunks or chicken nuggets according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Open the cans of Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust and unroll them onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to flatten the crusts slightly.
- Place one of the rolled-out pizza crusts on a baking sheet as the base for your sliders.
- Spread 3/4 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the pizza crust. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
- Carefully place the second pizza crust on top of the layered ingredients and gently press down.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the top crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes, then slice into squares or rectangles. Serve warm with additional pizza sauce for dipping.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
Notes
- Use whole wheat pizza crust for a healthier option.
- Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
