Cheesy Chicken Sliders bring together everything people love about comfort food in one warm, irresistible bite. Soft, slightly sweet rolls cradle creamy shredded chicken and layers of melted cheese, all brushed with fragrant garlic butter and baked until golden. These sliders look simple, yet they deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture in every serving. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or setting out a tray for guests, this recipe creates that unmistakable moment when everyone reaches for seconds before you’ve even sat down.
Cheesy Chicken Sliders That Everyone Will Crave
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
Description
Soft Hawaiian rolls filled with creamy shredded chicken, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and brushed with garlic butter before baking to golden perfection.
Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) package sweet Hawaiian-style dinner rolls
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces)
1 pound boneless, skinless cooked chicken, shredded (about 4 cups)
4 medium scallions, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and place rack in center. Slice rolls in half horizontally without separating and place bottom half in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine shredded cheddar and mozzarella in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl mix shredded chicken, scallions, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, pepper, and salt until creamy.
4. Sprinkle half the cheese over the bottom rolls. Spread chicken mixture evenly on top. Finish with remaining cheese.
5. Melt butter with minced garlic. Brush half onto cut side of top rolls. Place rolls on sliders.
6. Brush remaining garlic butter over tops and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7. Cover with foil and bake 20–25 minutes until cheese melts.
8. Remove foil and bake 5–7 more minutes until tops are golden.
9. Cool slightly, slice into 12 sliders, and serve warm.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Reheat covered in oven at 325°F to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Why Cheesy Chicken Sliders Are the Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
There’s something magnetic about a pan of Cheesy Chicken Sliders fresh from the oven. The tops glisten with butter and sesame seeds, the cheese pulls in delicate strands, and the aroma fills the kitchen before anyone sees them. They feel generous without being complicated, indulgent without being heavy.
What Makes Cheesy Chicken Sliders So Irresistible
The magic starts with contrast. Sweet Hawaiian-style rolls bake into a soft, pillowy base that balances the savory richness of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Inside, the creamy chicken mixture stays tender and flavorful thanks to a blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Every layer works together, so no single element overwhelms the others.
That balance transforms humble ingredients into something crave-worthy. The sweetness of the bread, the subtle bite of scallions, and the warmth of garlic butter create a deeply satisfying finish.
When to Serve Cheesy Chicken Sliders for Maximum Impact
These sliders shine at gatherings because they’re easy to slice and share. Set them out at game night, bring them to a potluck, or serve them as a relaxed weeknight dinner when everyone wants something hearty and comforting.
They also hold their own on a holiday spread. When placed next to fresh salads or roasted vegetables, they anchor the table with warmth and substance.
How Cheesy Chicken Sliders Elevate Simple Ingredients
At their core, these sliders rely on straightforward pantry staples. Cooked chicken becomes extraordinary once folded with creamy dressing and layered beneath melted cheese. A single clove of garlic perfumes the butter topping, proving that small additions can create remarkable depth.
It’s a reminder that thoughtful layering matters more than complexity.
The Secret to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Sliders Every Time
Great sliders don’t happen by accident. The texture of the bread, the quality of the cheese, and the moisture in the filling all influence the final result.
Choosing the Best Bread for Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Sweet Hawaiian rolls work beautifully because they remain soft while still holding structure. Slicing the entire package horizontally keeps the base intact, making assembly effortless and ensuring each portion stays uniform.
The bread absorbs just enough flavor from the filling and butter without becoming soggy. That stability is key when serving a crowd.
The Cheese Blend That Defines Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, while low-moisture mozzarella delivers that signature stretch. Tossing them together before layering ensures even distribution and consistent melting.
Half of the cheese goes beneath the chicken, forming a savory foundation. The remaining half melts over the top, sealing everything together into one cohesive layer.
Using Shredded Chicken for Juicy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Tender shredded chicken keeps the filling moist and easy to spread. Rotisserie chicken works well, but any boneless, skinless cooked chicken will do as long as it’s finely shredded.
If you enjoy creamy poultry dishes, you might also appreciate this comforting creamy chicken alfredo crescent rolls recipe, which uses similar textures in a different format. The same principle applies here: moisture and seasoning turn simple poultry into something memorable.
How to Layer and Bake Cheesy Chicken Sliders Like a Pro
Assembly feels almost effortless, yet each step builds flavor and texture.
Building Flavor Layers in Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Start by sprinkling half the cheese over the bottom half of the rolls. Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly, making sure it reaches every corner. Finish with the remaining cheese so each bite melts together beautifully.
Press the top layer of bread gently into place. This light pressure helps the ingredients settle without squeezing out the filling.
Garlic Butter Topping for Golden Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Melted butter mixed with minced garlic transforms the tops into something remarkable. Brushing half of the mixture onto the cut side of the top buns adds flavor from within, while the remaining butter brushed over the surface ensures a golden finish.
A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds subtle crunch and visual appeal. As the sliders bake, the butter seeps into the bread, creating an aromatic crust.
Baking Cheesy Chicken Sliders to Melty Perfection
Covering the dish with foil during the first phase of baking allows the cheese to melt completely without over-browning the tops. Once the foil comes off, the rolls toast lightly and develop a delicate crispness.
The result is a pan of Cheesy Chicken Sliders that slice cleanly and hold their shape while staying tender inside.
Flavor Variations and Serving Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, small adjustments can tailor the sliders to your preferences.
Turning Cheesy Chicken Sliders into a Fried Chicken Sandwich Style
If you love the flavor profile of a fried chicken sandwich, add a layer of thinly sliced pickles or a drizzle of spicy sauce before baking. The tang cuts through the richness and introduces a lively contrast.
This variation keeps the baked format while echoing the bold character of a classic sandwich.
Creative Twists on Classic Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Swap cheddar for pepper jack to introduce gentle heat, or stir a pinch of smoked paprika into the filling for subtle depth. Even finely diced roasted peppers can bring brightness.
For soup lovers, pairing these sliders with something hearty like this comforting chicken Philly pasta soup creates a satisfying meal that feels thoughtfully planned.
What to Serve Alongside Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Fresh green salads provide balance, while crisp coleslaw adds texture. Roasted vegetables or simple fruit platters keep the meal vibrant.
Because the sliders are rich and flavorful, lighter sides allow them to shine without overwhelming the table.
Storing, Reheating, and Making Cheesy Chicken Sliders Ahead
These sliders are just as practical as they are delicious.
How to Store Leftover Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Keeping them sealed preserves moisture and prevents the bread from drying out.
Reheating Cheesy Chicken Sliders Without Drying Them Out
Reheat in a 325°F oven, loosely covered with foil, until warmed through. This gentle method keeps the filling creamy and prevents the tops from over-browning.
Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can toughen the bread.
Preparing Cheesy Chicken Sliders in Advance for Parties
You can assemble the sliders several hours ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Brush with garlic butter just before they go into the oven to maintain freshness.
This make-ahead option reduces stress and lets you focus on hosting.
Cheesy Chicken Sliders FAQs
Can I Use Shredded Chicken in Cheesy Chicken Sliders?
Yes, shredded chicken works perfectly because it distributes evenly and absorbs the creamy dressing. Finely shredding ensures every bite contains balanced flavor and texture.
Can Cheesy Chicken Sliders Taste Like a Fried Chicken Sandwich?
They can echo similar flavors with the addition of pickles or a spicy sauce. While baked rather than fried, the combination of tender chicken and melted cheese still feels indulgent.
What Cheese Works Best for Cheesy Chicken Sliders?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella delivers both flavor and meltability. You can adjust the mix to suit your taste, but maintaining balance keeps the sliders cohesive.
Conclusion: Why Cheesy Chicken Sliders Belong on Your Table
Cheesy Chicken Sliders prove that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple preparation and reliable ingredients, they deliver warmth, richness, and unmistakable flavor in every bite.
They bring people together around the table, invite conversation, and disappear quickly from the baking dish. Once you make them, they’ll earn a permanent place in your rotation—an easy, dependable favorite that always satisfies.
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