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If you're looking for a dish that combines convenience, flavor, and a touch of elegance, look no further than Pesto Chicken Sliders. These delightful mini sandwiches are perfect for gatherings, game days, or even a quick weeknight dinner. They feature juicy ground chicken infused with vibrant basil pesto, topped with melty cheese and nestled in soft slider buns. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a unique twist on traditional sliders, making them a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children alike.

Pesto Chicken Sliders

Discover the deliciousness of Pesto Chicken Sliders, the perfect blend of flavor and convenience for any occasion. These mini sandwiches feature juicy ground chicken infused with aromatic basil pesto, topped with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, all nestled in soft slider buns. Easy to make and customizable with endless toppings, these sliders are a guaranteed hit for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Elevate your meal with fresh ingredients and enjoy a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground chicken

1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

12 mini slider buns

1 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach leaves for topping

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing it for baking the sliders.

    Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, basil pesto, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spatula, mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

      Form Patties: With the mixture combined, shape it into small patties roughly matching the size of your slider buns, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 12 patties.

        Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. To ensure they are safe to eat, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

          Assemble the Sliders: After cooking, remove the patties from the skillet and place each one on the bottom half of a slider bun. Top each patty generously with fresh arugula or baby spinach. If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, sprinkle them on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.

            Add Top Buns: Carefully place the top halves of the slider buns on each assembled slider. For a delightful finishing touch, consider drizzling a little balsamic glaze over the sliders to enhance their sweetness and tang.

              Bake: Arrange the assembled sliders in a baking dish, then cover them with foil to keep the moisture in. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the buns are warm and slightly toasted.

                Serve: Once the baking time is up, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces, or enjoy them as they are!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 sliders

                    Optional Presentation Tips: For an enticing presentation, serve the sliders on a wooden platter with small bowls of dipping sauces. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added color.