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Get ready to indulge in these Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders that are bursting with flavor! Tender chicken is smothered in a creamy garlic pesto sauce, then topped with gooey melted cheese and nestled in soft slider buns. Each bite is a delightful explosion of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress your friends and family. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
- Trust me, you’re going to love this cheesy goodness!
- Quick and easy to whip up for any occasion.
- This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.
- Perfectly portable for parties or picnics.
- Flavor-packed with garlic and pesto that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
- Chicken breast – a lean protein that serves as the base for your sliders.
- Garlic – adds a robust flavor; use fresh for the best taste.
- Pesto – brings a herby, nutty flavor; store-bought or homemade works well.
- Cheese – choose your favorite melty cheese for that gooey goodness.
- Slider buns – the perfect vessel for your cheesy chicken filling.
- Olive oil – helps to sauté the chicken and adds richness.
- Spinach – adds a fresh, nutritious touch to your sliders.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
Get ready to whip up some delicious Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect boneless chicken breasts, garlic, pesto sauce, mozzarella cheese, slider buns, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty when your sliders are ready.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. It’s okay to get a little messy!
Step 6: Mix in the Pesto
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with pesto sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in that flavorful goodness.
Step 7: Assemble the Sliders
On each slider bun, place a generous scoop of the pesto chicken mixture, then top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Arrange the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky, pesto-filled sliders!
Pro Tips for Making the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Use fresh basil for the pesto to elevate the flavor.
• Opt for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein.
• Toast the slider buns lightly for added crunch and warmth.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a unique twist.
• Serve with a side of marinara for dipping to enhance the cheesy goodness.
How to Serve the Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders
• Serve sliders on a platter with a side of crispy sweet potato fries.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Add a side of creamy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
• Offer a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
• Serve with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a perfect drink pairing.
• For a fun twist, try them with mini pickles or jalapeños on the side.
• Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders later without losing flavor.
Storing Leftovers
• Allow sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
• Wrap sliders individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw sliders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Use a microwave for quick reheating, but check for even warmth.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra gooeyness.
FAQs
What can I use instead of chicken if I want a vegetarian option?
You can easily substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils. These options will absorb the delicious flavors of the cheesy garlic pesto and provide a satisfying texture.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and pesto mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the sliders and bake them for a quick and easy meal.
What type of cheese works best for these sliders?
For a melty and flavorful experience, mozzarella or provolone cheese are excellent choices. They both melt beautifully and complement the garlic pesto perfectly, creating that cheesy goodness everyone loves.
How can I make the sliders spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto or using pepper jack cheese instead. You can also serve the sliders with a spicy aioli or hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders that are sure to bring smiles to your table! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nostalgia. So gather your loved ones, savor each cheesy bite, and enjoy the delightful experience of creating something delicious together. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share the joy!
