Cheesy Garlic Pesto Sliders

This delicious cheesy garlic pesto chicken slider recipe transforms ordinary dinner rolls into an irresistible party appetizer. The combination of garlicky butter, vibrant pesto, tender chicken, and melty mozzarella creates an explosion of flavor that everyone will love. I perfected this recipe after hosting countless game nights where these sliders always disappear within minutes.

These sliders became my go-to entertaining solution when I needed something impressive but simple. After serving them at my daughter's graduation party, I received so many requests for the recipe that I started keeping printed copies on hand.

Ingredients

• Slider rolls: A package of 12-count dinner rolls creates the perfect base for these sliders with their slightly sweet flavor
• Unsalted butter: Allows you to control the saltiness while creating a rich garlic topping
• Fresh garlic: Provides essential aromatic flavor; look for firm bulbs without sprouting
• Fresh parsley: Adds bright color and a hint of herbaceous flavor
• Basil pesto: Delivers concentrated flavor in every bite; use homemade for best results
• Shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds moisture and protein
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible melty stretch; choose whole milk mozzarella for best melt
• Salt and pepper: Enhances all other flavors; use flaky sea salt for a finishing touch

How To Make Cheesy Garlic Pesto Chicken Sliders

Prep and preheat:

First, heat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier

Slice the rolls:

Keep the entire package of rolls connected and use a long serrated knife to carefully slice through horizontally, creating a top and bottom layer while maintaining their connection to each other

Prepare the butter mixture:

Combine melted butter with minced garlic and fresh parsley in a small bowl, stirring well to infuse the butter with flavor. This creates the golden savory topping

Layer the ingredients:

Start by placing the bottom half of the connected rolls in your baking dish, then spread half the pesto evenly, creating a flavorful base for the fillings

Add protein and cheese:

Distribute the shredded chicken evenly across the pesto layer, then top with an even layer of shredded mozzarella, making sure to reach all the edges

Complete assembly:

Spread remaining pesto on the underside of the top layer of rolls, then place on top of the cheese, pressing down gently to secure the layers together

Apply butter topping:

Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, making sure to get into all the crevices for maximum flavor

Bake to perfection:

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for 5-10 more minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is completely melted

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The fresh garlic in the butter mixture is truly what elevates these sliders from good to exceptional. I discovered this accidentally when I ran out of garlic powder one day and had to use fresh instead. The difference was so remarkable that I never went back to the powder version for this recipe.

Make Ahead Instructions

These sliders are perfect for planning ahead. You can prepare them entirely up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply remove from the refrigerator while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

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Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe shines with chicken, you can easily swap in other proteins like leftover turkey, pulled pork, or even thinly sliced deli ham. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. The pesto can be switched to sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile, and if you need a dairy-free option, dairy-free butter and plant-based mozzarella work surprisingly well.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a party spread, serve alongside vegetable crudités with ranch dip and fresh fruit. If serving as a main course, a cup of tomato soup makes the perfect complement. For an extra special touch, provide small bowls of warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Storage And Reheating

Leftover sliders will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent excessive browning. These sliders also freeze beautifully; individually wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer bag, they can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought pesto for these sliders?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly. If you prefer, you can also use homemade pesto for a fresher taste.

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Cooked and shredded chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is ideal. It saves time and adds great flavor.

→ Can these sliders be prepared ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for the best results.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Yes, the sliders can be frozen after assembly but before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How can I customize the sliders?

You can add extra toppings like sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or swap mozzarella cheese for provolone or cheddar.