Name: Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 count package slider rolls; 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 tsp minced fresh parsley; 2/3 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought (divided); 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are perfect for a quick dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer. Packed with shredded chicken, basil pesto, and melted mozzarella, they bring together fresh flavors in a handheld treat that’s easy to prepare and delicious.

The image shows a close-up of four sandwich sliders in a white baking dish on a white marbled surface. Each slider has a shiny, golden-brown top bun that is being brushed with a glossy garlic and herb butter sauce using a red silicone brush held by a woman's hand. Beneath the top bun, shredded white cheese and a green herb mixture peek out, adding texture and color. To the left, there is a small white bowl filled with more garlic and herb sauce, with visible bits of parsley. The lighting highlights the shininess of the butter on the buns and the soft texture of the bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 count package slider rolls
6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tsp minced fresh parsley
2/3 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought (divided)
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (a rotisserie chicken is great for this)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13″ baking pan. Set aside.
Step 2: Place the unwrapped package of slider rolls on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice horizontally through the rolls, keeping your hand steady on top to hold them together.
Step 3: Lift the entire top section off the bottom section, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared baking pan.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Set aside.
Step 5: Spread half of the pesto evenly over the bottom half of the rolls in the pan.
Step 6: Layer shredded chicken over the pesto, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Spread the remaining pesto over the cut side of the top half of the rolls. Place the top half, pesto side down, over the cheese.
Step 8: Brush the garlic butter mixture over the top of the rolls. Sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.
Step 9: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the sliders are hot and the cheese is melted.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Italian seasoning to the pesto before spreading.
Use turkey or ham in place of chicken for a different twist.
To make ahead, assemble the sliders and refrigerate covered; bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Storage

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving to maintain the bread’s texture.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of six sandwich sliders in a white baking dish on a white marbled surface. Each slider has a golden-brown top bun with a glossy texture, brushed with a garlic herb sauce that glistens and has small green herb bits sprinkled on top. Under the buns, shredded white cheese and green pesto are visible between the layers of soft bread. A red silicone brush is spreading the garlic herb sauce on one bun, held by a woman's hand that is partially visible. Next to the baking dish on the left is a small white bowl containing more garlic herb sauce with chopped green herbs mixed in. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rolls for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw the rolls completely before slicing and assembling the sliders to ensure even baking and the best texture.

Is it possible to make these sliders vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled vegetables for a tasty vegetarian version.