Spicy Chickpea Sliders

Name: Spicy Chickpea Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option); 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying; Slider buns; Lettuce; Tomato slices; Avocado; Spicy mayo or your favorite sauce

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making Spicy Chickpea Sliders for a quick and delightful meal. They are packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of spices and herbs that really elevate the humble chickpea. Preparing these sliders is not only easy but also allows for a versatile serving option, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. I enjoy customizing them with various toppings, making every bite a unique experience. If you're craving something wholesome yet satisfying, these sliders are an excellent choice.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:57:35.095Z

When I first experimented with chickpeas as the main ingredient in sliders, I was amazed at how well they held together and absorbed flavors. The trick is to blend the chickpeas with just the right amount of spices and oats to get a perfect texture. I always use smoked paprika and cumin to give them that kick that transforms an ordinary meal into something exciting.

Another tip is to pan-fry the sliders instead of baking them. This gives them a wonderful golden crust that creates a delightful contrast to the soft inside. Don’t forget to serve them with your favorite toppings; it really enhances the overall experience!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Packed with protein and flavor for a satisfying bite
Versatile for meal prep or entertaining guests
Spicy kick with a balance of fresh ingredients

The Role of Chickpeas and Spices

Chickpeas are the star of these sliders, providing a rich source of protein and fiber that makes them not just filling but also nutritious. Their nutty flavor pairs exceptionally well with the spices used in this recipe. The combination of cumin and smoked paprika introduces a warm, earthy undertone, while cayenne adds the desired spicy kick. This balance of spices elevates the overall flavor profile, making for a satisfying and well-rounded slider that is both delicious and hearty.

In addition to flavor, the spices contribute significantly to the texture of the sliders. When combined with the breadcrumbs, they create a binding ingredient that allows the patties to hold together during cooking. If you've never worked with spices before, start with the measurements recommended, and then adjust according to your taste preference. The goal is to enhance the chickpeas, not to overwhelm them with heat.

Perfecting the Slider Texture

Achieving the right texture is key to making these sliders truly enjoyable. When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a mix that is smooth yet retains some chunkiness. This will give the sliders a nice bite, preventing them from becoming a dense paste. I prefer using a fork for mashing, as it allows for better control over the consistency. If you find the mixture too dry, consider adding a tablespoon of water or additional olive oil, but be cautious not to make it too wet.

Frying the sliders in olive oil at medium heat is essential for achieving that golden brown crust. After shaping the patties, let them rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This resting time helps the sliders firm up, reducing the chance of them breaking apart in the pan. When cooking, check for a golden edge before flipping them over, which usually takes around 5 minutes on each side. This visual cue indicates that the sliders are ready to be flipped for an equally crispy second side.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy Chickpea Sliders:

For the Sliders

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

For Serving

Slider buns
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Avocado
Spicy mayo or your favorite sauce

Make sure everything is fresh and ready for assembling your sliders!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spicy Chickpea Sliders:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas until smooth but still slightly chunky. Stir in breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until everything is well combined.

Shape the Sliders

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into slider patties. You should get about 8 sliders from this mixture.

Fry the Sliders

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliders and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble and Serve

Place the cooked sliders on buns and top with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and spicy mayo. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Your spicy chickpea sliders are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, let the mixture sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping the sliders. This allows all the spices to meld together beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

One of the great things about these Spicy Chickpea Sliders is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. When you're ready to cook, just shape the patties and fry them as directed.

If you want to prepare a larger batch, you can freeze the uncooked slider patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can fry them directly from the freezer for a quick meal. Just increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes per side, monitoring them closely for doneness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These sliders are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Beyond the usual lettuce and tomato, consider adding pickled onions, jalapeños for an extra kick, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast. The options are endless! If you have leftover sliders, they make a fantastic addition to salads or grain bowls, providing a plant-based protein punch without requiring much additional cooking.

For flavor variations, experiment with different herbs or spices in the mixture. Fresh cilantro or parsley can enhance freshness, while adding a touch of lemon zest will brighten the overall flavor. You can also try substituting the chickpeas with black beans for a different texture and taste or add some grated carrots or zucchini to boost the veggie content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the sliders a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg as a substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe will be gluten-free too!

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Try adding pickled jalapeños, sliced radishes, or even a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor.