Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are the ultimate party food! Gooey, cheesy, and bursting with garlicky goodness, they are perfect for any occasion—from game day to casual gatherings. Their delightful herby pesto flavor makes them a standout treat that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to prep ahead and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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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
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls
• Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer
• Step 4: Mix Garlic Butter
• Step 5: Add Pesto & Chicken
• Step 6: Top It Off
• Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter
• Step 8: Bake
• Step 9: Cool & Serve
• How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Game Day Delight
• Family Feast
• Casual Gatherings
• Picnics or BBQs
• How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Reheating Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of chicken for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?
• What type of bread is best for these sliders?
• Can I customize the toppings on my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?
• How do I know when my sliders are done baking?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: With the combination of garlic, cheese, and pesto, each bite is bursting with flavor that will keep guests coming back for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even at parties—they’re great for any occasion!
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these sliders in advance, making it easy to bake them right before serving.
• Crowd-Pleasing Size: Each slider is just the right size for snacking, so guests can enjoy multiple bites without feeling too full.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. For these Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, you’ll need a few essential items to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: This is essential for holding all your sliders together while they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your garlic butter mixture without any mess.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the slider rolls much easier and cleaner.
• Basting brush: Ideal for spreading the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls.

Ingredients

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are everything you want in a party bite—gooey, garlicky, cheesy, and packed with herby pesto flavor. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner, they’re simple to prep ahead and guaranteed to disappear fast!

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls

Slice the slider rolls horizontally like a sandwich bun. Make sure to keep the tops and bottoms intact as single pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer

Place the bottom half of the rolls in your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Mix Garlic Butter

In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 5: Add Pesto & Chicken

Spread half of the basil pesto evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Next, layer your shredded chicken over this pesto base followed by sprinkling on the mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Top It Off

Spread the remaining basil pesto over the cut side of the top half of the rolls. Place this on top of the cheese layer.

Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter

Use a basting brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with your garlic butter mixture. If desired, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Bake

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

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders. Serve warm for optimum gooeyness!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are perfect for gatherings and casual meals. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Game Day Delight

• Buffalo Sauce Drizzle: Add a spicy kick by drizzling buffalo sauce over the sliders before serving.
• Ranch Dressing Dip: Serve with a side of ranch dressing for a creamy contrast to the garlicky flavors.

Family Feast

• Mixed Green Salad: Pair with a light mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
• Veggie Platter: Offer a colorful veggie platter with hummus or dip for a crunchy side that complements the sliders perfectly.

Casual Gatherings

• Chips and Salsa: Serve with tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a fun, easy-to-eat combo.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers add a sweet touch and a vibrant look to your table.

Picnics or BBQs

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw makes for a great crunchy side that’s easy to pack and serve.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit and can be seasoned to match the flavors of the sliders.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Creating the ideal Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they’re always a hit.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use freshly minced garlic for an intense flavor that elevates your sliders.
• Cheese Choice Matters: Opt for high-quality mozzarella cheese; it melts beautifully and enhances the taste.
• Pesto Variety: Experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula, for unique flavor twists.
• Butter Brush: Generously brush the tops of the rolls with garlic butter for extra richness and aroma.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the sliders rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them hold together when you slice them.
• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add additional toppings like sliced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

To complement your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, consider these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries tossed in garlic and parmesan make an irresistible pairing.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and creaminess that contrasts well with the sliders.
3. Baked Zucchini Chips: Lightly seasoned zucchini chips offer a healthy, crunchy option that’s easy to munch on.
4. Classic Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a favorite at gatherings, adding heartiness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Colorful mini peppers stuffed with cream cheese or feta provide freshness alongside your sliders.
6. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash adds sweetness and pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the rest time: Letting the sliders cool slightly before slicing helps them hold their shape better.
• Overloading on pesto: While pesto adds flavor, too much can make the sliders soggy. Stick to the recommended amount for the best texture.
• Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease the baking dish may cause the sliders to stick. Always ensure your pan is prepared for easy removal.
• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect taste and meltability. Opt for fresh mozzarella for a gooey, delicious finish.
• Baking without foil: Baking uncovered for too long can lead to overly crispy tops. Use foil during part of the cooking process for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual sliders on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, but expect a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through, usually about 5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chicken for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

Yes, you can use grilled chicken or even turkey as a substitute if desired.

What type of bread is best for these sliders?

Slider rolls work best, but you can also use Hawaiian rolls or any soft bread that holds together well.

Can I customize the toppings on my Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when my sliders are done baking?

The sliders are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops are golden brown.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for parties or casual dinners, they offer endless customization options. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your favorite ingredients, these sliders are sure to impress!