Sliders with Spicy Chickpea Patty

Name: Sliders with Spicy Chickpea Patty
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan); 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Red onion slices; Avocado (optional); Spicy sauce or mayo for spreading

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these sliders with spicy chickpea patties! They combine nutritious ingredients with bold flavors that make each bite truly satisfying. The blend of spices elevates the chickpeas, resulting in a delightful patty that even meat lovers will enjoy. It’s a great option for quick weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Served with fresh veggies and a zesty sauce, these sliders are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on these little bites of joy!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:55:12.294Z

When I first created these sliders, I was amazed at how well the chickpeas soaked up the spices. I decided to roast some and blend them for that perfect texture. By adding breadcrumbs, I achieved a patty that holds its shape on the grill while remaining tender on the inside. This method made a huge difference in the final product!

Now, whenever I serve them at gatherings, they disappear quickly. I’ve learned that a splash of lime juice in the sauce brings out the flavors even more. It's a small touch that makes a big impact, ensuring every bite is full of zest!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Deliciously spicy flavor that adds a kick
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Healthy option packed with plant-based protein

      

The Perfect Chickpea Patty Texture

Achieving the right texture in your chickpea patties is essential for a satisfying bite. When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a consistency that is mostly smooth but still retains some chunks for added texture. This will help the patties hold together during cooking while providing a delightful bite. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture, which can prevent them from falling apart in the skillet.

Another important factor in creating a fantastic patty is cooking technique. Preheat your skillet to medium heat before adding olive oil, ensuring that it shimmers slightly but doesn’t smoke. This allows for even browning, giving your patties that appealing golden color. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning and allow for a thorough cook, which can also bring out the flavors from the spices.

Crafting Your Ideal Slider

The sliders are highly customizable, and choosing the right toppings can significantly enhance their flavor profile. Consider incorporating crunchy pickles or jalapeños for an additional kick. If you prefer a milder option, sweet potato slices can complement the spicy patty nicely. Feel free to experiment with different types of sauces, such as a yogurt-based sauce if you want a creamier element to balance the heat.

For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting your slider buns on a skillet or in a toaster before assembling. This small step not only adds a delightful crunch but can create a barrier against moisture from toppings, keeping the buns from becoming soggy. If you're preparing these sliders for a gathering, consider setting up a topping bar, allowing guests to customize their own sliders to their liking.

Ingredients

For the Patty

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Red onion slices
Avocado (optional)
Spicy sauce or mayo for spreading

Instructions

Prepare the Chickpea Patty

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Add breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well and add the egg (or flax egg).

Form the mixture into patties.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns if desired. Place a lettuce leaf on each bun, then add the chickpea patty, followed by tomato and onion slices. Top with avocado and your choice of spicy sauce.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, let the patty mixture sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These spicy chickpea patties are perfect for make-ahead meals! Prepare the patties in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until warmed through. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to a month. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw. Just fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

If stored properly, these sliders can offer a great meal prep solution for busy weeknights. When assembling, consider placing any remaining slider components in separate containers to maintain freshness. Storing tomatoes, onions, and sauces separately can enhance their crispness and flavor when you’re ready to enjoy your sliders.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your patties seem too crumbly and fall apart while cooking, it could be due to insufficient binding. Ensure that the mixture is well-mixed and the egg (or flax egg) is thoroughly incorporated. Adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs can help with binding as well. On the other hand, if you find them too mushy despite proper cooking, it might be due to overly mashing the chickpeas. Strive for a balance, as a few chunks can vastly improve the structure of your patty.

Another issue to watch for is uneven cooking. To prevent this, make uniform-sized patties, ideally about ½ inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly through. If your skillet isn't non-stick or well-seasoned, consider using more oil or using a non-stick spray to aid with flipping and prevent sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders vegan?

Absolutely! Just replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use vegan mayo.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Lettuce, tomato, onion, and avocado work great! You can also try pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking.

→ How can I make these sliders spicier?

Simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chilies to the patty mixture.