Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders

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Introduction

Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders are a deliciously indulgent dish, perfect for parties, casual dinners, or a fun snack. These sliders feature juicy, seasoned chicken breast, layered with melty cheese (often a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss), and sandwiched between soft, buttery rolls. Topped with a savory butter sauce and baked until the cheese is gooey and the rolls are golden, these sliders are a comfort food favorite!

I first made Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders when I was craving a cheesy, hearty meal but wanted something easy to prepare. The chicken was perfectly tender, and the blend of cheeses made each bite melt in my mouth. What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is—you can add sautéed onions, fresh spinach, or even a touch of hot sauce for extra flavor. Whether served for a weeknight dinner, game day, or a party, these sliders are always a hit with anyone who loves cheesy, comforting food!

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Game nights
Parties
Casual get-togethers
Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders will become your go-to recipe:

Cheesy Goodness: The melty cheese makes each slider irresistible and comforting.
Tender Chicken: The juicy, well-seasoned chicken will keep you coming back for more.
Soft and Buttery Buns: The buns are soft and pillowy, perfect for holding the cheesy chicken filling.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
Customizable Toppings: Add lettuce, tomato, or pickles to suit your taste.
Perfect for a Crowd: These sliders are easy to make in large batches and ideal for sharing.
Kid-Friendly: A hit with children due to the mild and cheesy flavor.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or appetizer.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them when ready.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The savory chicken combined with cheese and buns creates the ideal flavor profile.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sliders:

12 slider buns
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Optional Toppings:

Lettuce
Tomato slices
Pickles

Ingredient Highlights

Boneless Chicken Breasts: Tender and easy to shred, perfect for slider filling.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: A combination that delivers the perfect melt and creamy texture.
Slider Buns: Soft and lightly sweet, ideal for holding all the cheesy goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Filling:

Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook chicken until fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred it with two forks.

Prepare the Sliders:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Assemble the Sliders: Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a baking dish. Layer the shredded chicken evenly over the buns, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Top with Buns: Place the top halves of the buns on the cheese layer.
Brush with Butter: Mix the melted butter and Dijon mustard, then brush it over the top of the slider buns.

Bake:

Bake Sliders: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns are golden brown.

Serve:

Slice and Serve: Remove from the oven, slice the sliders, and serve with optional toppings.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders:

At a Party: Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ.
With Salad: Pair with a side salad for a light and balanced meal.
For Game Night: Serve with chips and dip for a casual, easy dinner.
With Fries: Classic combo! Serve with crispy fries for an indulgent treat.
With Sautéed Veggies: Add a healthy touch by serving with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
As a Picnic Snack: Easy to pack for outdoor gatherings.
With Guacamole: A great side for those who enjoy a creamy, tangy dip.
For a Snack: Perfect for after-school or late-night snacking.
With Soup: Serve alongside a hearty soup like tomato or potato for a cozy meal.
As a Meal Prep: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days for a quick and tasty lunch.

Additional Tips

Use Shredded Cheese: For even meltiness, use shredded cheese instead of slices. It distributes more evenly across the chicken.
Add Cream Cheese: For extra creaminess, spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the buns before adding the chicken.
Layer Different Cheeses: Mix cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda for a rich, layered cheesy flavor.
Toast the Buns: Lightly butter and toast the buns in a skillet for added texture and flavor.
Season the Chicken Well: Don’t forget to season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor before adding the cheese.
Add a Little Heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Melt Cheese in the Oven: After assembling, bake the sliders in the oven until the cheese is fully melted for that gooey, irresistible finish.
Incorporate Beef Bacon: Add crispy beef bacon strips for an added crunch and smokiness that pairs perfectly with the cheesy chicken.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, buffalo, or BBQ sauce to take these sliders to the next level.

Recipe Variations

Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Add buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.
BBQ Chicken Sliders: Replace the seasoning with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Pulled Beef Sliders: Substitute the chicken for pulled beef for a different protein option.
Veggie Sliders: Use roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and onions for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Sauce: Drizzle melted cheese sauce over the sliders for an extra cheesy experience.
Spicy Ranch Sliders: Add spicy ranch dressing to the filling for extra flavor.

Special Equipment

Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for assembling and baking the sliders.
Sharp Knife: For shredding the chicken easily.
Pastry Brush: To apply the melted butter and mustard mixture on top of the buns.
Aluminum Foil: To cover the sliders while they bake for a soft texture.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders, cover them, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake when ready.
Can I add other cheeses?
Yes, feel free to mix in gouda, provolone, or even parmesan for added flavor.
How can I make these sliders spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for heat.
Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free slider buns to make them gluten-free.
Can I use different buns?
Yes, you can use any type of buns, such as Hawaiian rolls or regular dinner rolls.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish.
How can I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Ensure the chicken is not too wet before layering it on the buns.

Conclusion

Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders are a melt-in-your-mouth, savory treat that’s packed with juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and a soft slider bun—all topped with a flavorful, buttery seasoning. These sliders are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. The extra cheese and flavorful chicken create a combination that’s impossible to resist!

To make them, start by cooking shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts and shred them). Mix the chicken with a combination of your favorite cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of both—along with some mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Layer the cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of slider buns, then top with additional cheese. Place the top half of the buns on top and brush them with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of seasoning. Bake until the sliders are golden, crispy, and the cheese is perfectly melted. These Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders are ideal for serving with fries, chips, or a fresh salad. They also make a fantastic addition to any game day spread or family gathering.

I can’t wait to see how your Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made these sliders your own!

Extra-Cheesy Chicken Sliders