Crock Pot Chicken Sliders

This slow-cooked chicken parmesan slider recipe transforms classic Italian flavors into irresistible pull-apart sandwiches that are perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort. The tender chicken simmers all day in rich marinara before being piled onto sweet Hawaiian rolls with plenty of melty cheese.

I first made these for a neighborhood Super Bowl party, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. My teenage son now requests these sliders almost weekly as his afterschool meal before sports practice.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: create the tender protein base that shreds beautifully after slow cooking
• Marinara sauce: provides rich tomato flavor without any extra work. Look for a high quality jar with minimal added sugar
• Italian seasoning: brings in all the classic herbs in one convenient blend. Check the freshness date as older herbs lose potency
• Hawaiian rolls: offer the perfect sweet contrast to the savory filling. Their soft texture and slight sweetness make these special
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for that authentic chicken parm experience. Grate your own for better melting properties
• Parmesan cheese: adds the sharp, nutty dimension essential to chicken parmesan. Use freshly grated rather than pre packaged if possible
• Garlic: both in the filling and butter topping enhances flavor depth throughout. Fresh minced delivers best results
• Butter: creates that irresistible golden top that makes these sliders look as good as they taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Slow Cooker:

Place raw chicken breasts in the slow cooker insert and season with salt and pepper. Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure it's fully covered. Add Italian seasoning and minced garlic, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce. This initial layering ensures the chicken absorbs maximum flavor during cooking.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it easily shreds with two forks. The low and slow method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing all the marinara flavors. You'll know it's perfect when it falls apart at the touch of a fork.

Shred and Prepare:

Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce, ensuring every bit is coated. This creates the perfect moisture level for your sliders and distributes the flavor evenly. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully absorb the sauce after shredding.

Assemble the Sliders:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in a 9x13 baking dish. Spoon the shredded chicken mixture evenly over the bottom layer of rolls, being generous with the sauce. The sauce will soak slightly into the bread creating amazing flavor.

Add the Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken, followed by most of the Parmesan cheese, reserving about a tablespoon for the top. The cheese combination creates that classic chicken parmesan flavor profile and ensures proper melting. Make sure to spread it to the edges for cheese in every bite.

Finish and Brush:

Place the top half of the connected Hawaiian rolls over the cheese layer. Combine melted butter with garlic salt in a small bowl, then brush this mixture all over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the buttered tops. This butter topping will create a gorgeous golden crust during baking.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The foil prevents the tops from browning too quickly. Remove the foil during the final 2 to 5 minutes of baking to allow the tops to become golden brown and slightly crisp. Watch carefully during this final stage to prevent burning.

Serve and Enjoy:

Allow the sliders to cool for just 2 to 3 minutes before cutting and serving. The brief cooling time helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn't completely run out when cut. Serve while still warm for the best eating experience with the cheese still melty and delicious.

Pin it

No one in my family can resist the combination of tender chicken and that golden butter-brushed top. My husband once ate six of these in one sitting after a particularly long workday, and they've become our standard offering when hosting his hungry softball team after weekend games.

Make It Your Own

The chicken filling in this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your family's preferences. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra vegetables. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you enjoy some heat. The beauty of slow cooking is how forgiving it is with these adjustments.

Storage and Reheating

These sliders maintain their quality stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. I suggest avoiding the microwave if possible as it can make the rolls tough. For best results, store any leftover chicken filling separately from assembled sandwiches.

Perfect Pairings

Complete your meal by serving these sliders with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. For a heartier option, a side of roasted vegetables or garlic parmesan roasted potatoes complements the Italian flavors beautifully. These sliders also pair wonderfully with a cold cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and cheese.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread for the sliders?

Yes, you can substitute Hawaiian rolls with any soft dinner rolls or slider buns for similar results.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking for the freshest taste.

→ What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

Spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, or crushed tomatoes can be used as substitutes for marinara sauce in this recipe.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Ensure the chicken is well-drained before assembling the sliders to prevent excess liquid soaking into the rolls.

→ Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with plant-based alternatives like jackfruit or mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor.