Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

These easy to make, Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders are the perfect quick and easy dinner. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also work well for various occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, zesty pesto, and gooey mozzarella makes these sliders a standout choice that everyone will love. Plus, leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of pesto and melted mozzarella creates a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for dinner or as a snack during game day; these sliders suit any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pulling apart these sliders, making them a hit with the whole family.
• Easy Leftovers: These sliders taste just as good the next day, making them ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8×8-inch)
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps keep all ingredients together.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like butter, garlic salt, and parsley efficiently.

Ingredients

Bread Base

• 9 Slider Rolls, or tray buns

Flavor Boosters

• 1/4 cup Pesto
• 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Topping Mixture

• 2 tablespoons Butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt
• 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley

How to Make Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Slice the dinner rolls in half. If using pull-apart rolls, leave them stuck together and slice them all at once.

Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer

Place the bottom halves of the rolls into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Spread the Pesto

Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the bottom halves of the dinner rolls.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese

Distribute the cooked shredded chicken on top of the pesto layer. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken evenly.

Step 6: Cover with Top Halves

Carefully place the top halves of the dinner rolls over your cheese layer to complete your slider assembly.

Step 7: Create Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic salt, and dried parsley until combined.

Step 8: Brush Topping Mixture

Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the top of your assembled sliders.

Step 9: Cover and Bake

Cover the entire baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm for best results!

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

Pesto chicken pull apart sliders are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving them for a casual family dinner or at a party, these sliders are sure to impress.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a side salad for a light and fresh meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty and healthy option.

Game Day Snack

• Offer them as finger food during your game day gatherings.
• Accompany with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added flavor.

Lunchbox Delight

• Pack leftovers in lunchboxes for an easy and delicious lunch.
• Add some fresh fruit on the side for a balanced meal.

Picnic Treat

• Cut into smaller portions for easy handling during picnics.
• Include some chips or veggie sticks for crunch.

Kid-Friendly Meal

• Let kids customize their sliders with extra toppings like tomatoes or olives.
• Pair with their favorite juice or smoothie for a fun drink option.

How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

For the best results when making pesto chicken pull apart sliders, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade pesto elevates the flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Opt for Quality Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease and great taste; it saves time!
• Don’t Skip the Butter Mixture: Brushing the butter mixture adds richness and enhances browning.
• Cover Tightly While Baking: This ensures steam builds up, keeping the sliders moist while baking.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing sliders to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together nicely.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

These pesto chicken pull apart sliders pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here’s a list of tasty options to complement your meal:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing create a classic pairing.
2. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness makes it an irresistible accompaniment.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that everyone will love.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil make for colorful and tasty bites.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrition without overpowering flavors.
7. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad brings brightness and contrast to savory flavors.
8. Potato Chips: For an easy crunch, serve assorted potato chips alongside your sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pesto chicken pull apart sliders can be simple, but avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold chicken or cheese can prevent melting. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature for better results.
• Not Covering with Foil: Forgetting to cover the dish can result in dry sliders. Always cover tightly with aluminum foil for moisture retention during baking.
• Overstuffing the Sliders: Adding too much filling can cause spills and mess. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect pull-apart layers.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning, like garlic salt, can lead to bland flavors. Don’t overlook this step; it enhances overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep sliders together in their original baking dish if possible, covered with plastic wrap.

Freezing Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, until warmed through, usually about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pesto chicken pull apart sliders.

How do I make Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders vegetarian?

To make vegetarian sliders, substitute cooked shredded chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas mixed with pesto.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes! Store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Just spread it generously over the rolls.

How do I customize my Pesto Chicken Pull Apart Sliders?

You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or different cheeses for extra flavor and texture.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly. Refrigerate overnight and bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Pesto chicken pull apart sliders are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or adapt them for various dietary needs. Try this recipe today—you’ll love how delicious they are!