Ingredients
Scale
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 12 breaded chicken tenders (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese or 2 cups shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Candy eyes or sliced olives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
- Slice buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in the dish.
- Bake chicken tenders according to package directions until crispy.
- Place one cooked chicken tender on each bun base.
- Spoon marinara sauce over the chicken.
- Top with a slice of mozzarella (cut to fit, if needed).
- Add the top bun halves.
- Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake 5–7 more minutes, until cheese is melted and tops are golden.
- Decorate tops with candy eyes or sliced olives using a dab of marinara or mustard as “glue.”
Notes
- Add fresh basil leaves for a herby pop.
- Use spicy marinara for an adult-friendly kick.
- Make it extra gooey with more cheese inside.
- Swap chicken for meatballs or plant-based patties.