Spicy Chickpea Sliders

Name: Spicy Chickpea Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Mini burger buns; Sliced avocado; Tzatziki sauce or yogurt; Lettuce or spinach

Highlighted under: World Collection

I absolutely love making Spicy Chickpea Sliders for a quick and satisfying meal! These little bites are packed with flavor and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you're hosting a party or just want something delicious for dinner. The combination of spices brings a warmth that pairs perfectly with creamy toppings like avocado or tzatziki. What I enjoy the most is how easy they are to prepare – just blend, form, and cook! You'll be amazed at how flavorful and hearty these sliders can be without any meat.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:43:34.998Z

Making these Spicy Chickpea Sliders was a delightful experience! I started by experimenting with different spices in my pantry, and I discovered that a mix of smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne gives the perfect kick. After blending the chickpeas, I opted for a coarse texture to keep them hearty, rather than a smooth paste.

What surprised me was how well they held together while cooking. I used a non-stick skillet to avoid excess oil and achieve that golden-brown crust. The result was a satisfying crispness that contrasted beautifully with the soft chickpeas inside!

Why You Will Love These Sliders
Bursting with flavor and spice with every bite
A healthy alternative that's both filling and delicious
Versatile toppings to suit any flavor preference

Mastering the Slider Technique

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Spicy Chickpea Sliders lies in how you mash the chickpeas. Aim for a chunky consistency rather than a smooth puree; this helps keep the sliders from being too dense while still allowing them to bind together with other ingredients. If you find the mixture too crumbly when shaping, add a tablespoon of water or a touch more bread crumbs to adjust the texture without losing flavor.

When forming the patties, it's essential to compress them well so they hold their shape during cooking. I recommend wetting your hands slightly to prevent sticking, which will make the process smoother. Remember to maintain a consistent size so that they cook evenly; a quick hack is to use a cookie scoop for uniformity.

Cooking the sliders in olive oil over medium heat ensures a beautifully golden crust. Keep an eye on them as they cook; they're ready to flip when you see the edges turning golden-brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Lower the heat if they brown too quickly to ensure they cook through without burning.

Topping and Serving Suggestions

The toppings you choose can elevate your Spicy Chickpea Sliders to new heights. While I love avocado for its creaminess, consider variations like pickled onions or roasted red peppers for added tang and depth. You could also experiment with different sauces, like a spicy sriracha mayo, which brings a nice kick that complements the spices in the sliders.

If you're looking to accommodate different dietary needs, try serving the sliders on lettuce wraps instead of traditional mini burger buns for a low-carb option. Additionally, using gluten-free bread crumbs is a straightforward swap to make this recipe accessible for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.

To make this meal even more satisfying, consider serving a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. This not only balances the spice of your sliders but also adds vibrant colors to your plate.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For Serving

Mini burger buns
Sliced avocado
Tzatziki sauce or yogurt
Lettuce or spinach

Preparation

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork, leaving some texture. Stir in bread crumbs, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a slider bun. Ensure they are compact to prevent crumbling during cooking.

Cook the Sliders

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Assemble and Serve

Place the cooked sliders on mini burger buns. Top with sliced avocado, tzatziki sauce, and greens. Serve immediately.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding chopped bell peppers or carrots to the slider mixture. You can also bake the sliders in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Spicy Chickpea Sliders is their flexibility. You can prepare the slider mixture a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allowing the flavors to meld overnight often enhances the overall taste. Just remember to give it a quick stir before forming it into patties.

If you're thinking about meal prep, these sliders freeze beautifully. Simply shape them into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes on each side for a properly cooked center.

When reheating leftover sliders, using an oven restores their crisp exterior better than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the sliders for about 10 minutes or until heated through. They can also be crisped up in a skillet with a little olive oil.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Don't hesitate to tailor the spices in this recipe to suit your palate. For instance, adding a teaspoon of curry powder can give these sliders an Indian twist, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the flavor profile. If you're a fan of heat, consider mixing in some finely minced jalapeños with the chickpeas for an extra kick.

These sliders are also a great way to explore different beans if you want to mix things up! While chickpeas are the star here, trying black beans or kidney beans can add a unique flavor and texture. Whichever bean you choose, just ensure they are well-drained and rinsed for optimal consistency.

For a more cheesy flavor, incorporating crumbled feta or shredded cheese within the mixture will add richness. Just make sure to adjust the bread crumbs accordingly to maintain the right texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the sliders ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked sliders in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of chickpeas?

You can substitute chickpeas with black beans or lentils, but be aware that the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free bread crumbs, these sliders can be made gluten-free.