Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Featured in: Bite-Sized Grill Snacks

These mini sliders pack big Italian-American flavors into bite-sized portions. Start with shredded chicken mixed with basil pesto, pile onto brioche buns with marinara, then blanket with mozzarella and Parmesan. A garlic butter brush golden-bakes the tops to perfection. They're ready in under an hour and serve a crowd effortlessly.

Updated on Sun, 08 Feb 2026 02:45:13 GMT
Golden-brown Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders on a platter, with melted mozzarella and fresh basil garnish for parties. Save
Golden-brown Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders on a platter, with melted mozzarella and fresh basil garnish for parties. | bitegrill.com

These Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders are the ultimate party appetizer, combining tender pesto-shredded chicken with zesty marinara and gooey melted mozzarella. Served on soft mini brioche buns, they offer a perfect blend of Italian-American flavors in a convenient, bite-sized format that is perfect for any gathering.

Golden-brown Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders on a platter, with melted mozzarella and fresh basil garnish for parties. Save
Golden-brown Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders on a platter, with melted mozzarella and fresh basil garnish for parties. | bitegrill.com

Brushing the tops of the buns with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic adds a rich, aromatic finish that elevates these sliders. Whether you are hosting a game day or a casual party, these warm, cheesy treats are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 12 mini brioche slider buns
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Product image
Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with salt, pepper, and pesto until evenly coated.
Step 3
Slice brioche slider buns in half horizontally. Arrange bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4
Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce onto each bun base. Top with pesto chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5
Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.
Step 6
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, then brush over the tops of the buns.
Step 7
Bake sliders for 15–18 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
Step 8
Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil if using, and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a more convenient preparation, you can substitute the shredded chicken breast with a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Try using provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella to give the sliders a different and unique flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these sliders with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. They pair exceptionally well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.

Freshly baked mini brioche sliders filled with pesto chicken and zesty marinara, served warm from the oven. Save
Freshly baked mini brioche sliders filled with pesto chicken and zesty marinara, served warm from the oven. | bitegrill.com

With their golden-brown tops and gooey centers, these Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders are a sophisticated yet simple addition to any appetizer spread. Enjoy the perfect bite of Italian-inspired comfort food at your next gathering.

Product image
Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.
Check price on Amazon

Recipe FAQ

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Assemble everything up to baking, wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 2-3 minutes to baking time if baking cold from the fridge.

What's the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts while warm. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time—just shred and mix with pesto.

Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, freeze assembled unbaked sliders for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then bake as directed. Baked sliders freeze well too—reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.

What other cheeses work in this recipe?

Provolone adds sharpness, fontina brings creaminess, or swap half the mozzarella for Asiago. Just keep the total cheese amount consistent.

How do I prevent buns from getting soggy?

Toast cut sides briefly before assembling, or keep marinara layer thin. The garlic butter coating also helps create a protective barrier on the bun tops.

Pesto Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Mini brioche buns loaded with pesto chicken, marinara, and gooey cheese. Quick and easy party favorite.

Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Ethan Walker


Skill Level Easy

Heritage Italian-American

Output 12 Portions

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Chicken

01 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
02 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pesto

01 1/3 cup basil pesto

Sliders

01 12 mini brioche slider buns
02 1 cup marinara sauce
03 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
04 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
06 1 clove garlic, minced
07 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Method

Phase 01

Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Phase 02

Prepare pesto chicken filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with salt, pepper, and basil pesto until evenly coated.

Phase 03

Prepare slider bases: Slice brioche slider buns in half horizontally. Arrange bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.

Phase 04

Layer filling: Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce onto each bun base. Top with pesto chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Phase 05

Assemble sliders: Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.

Phase 06

Prepare garlic butter: Mix melted butter with minced garlic, then brush over the tops of the buns.

Phase 07

Bake: Bake sliders for 15 to 18 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

Phase 08

Finish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Tools needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Knife

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about sensitivities.
  • Contains wheat from brioche buns
  • Contains milk from cheese and butter
  • May contain tree nuts such as pine nuts in pesto

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 230
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 13 g