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 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Slider buns; Sliced avocado; Lettuce or spinach; Tomato slices; Your favorite sauce (like tahini or spicy mayo)

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I absolutely love making Spicy Chickpea Sliders for a quick meal or snack. The combination of chickpeas, spices, and breadcrumbs creates a flavorful patty that packs a punch. With each bite, I find that the blend of ingredients not only offers a satisfying texture but also a delightful spiciness. Whether I'm hosting friends or just craving a tasty treat, these sliders never fail to impress. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:35.817Z

When developing these Spicy Chickpea Sliders, I experimented with various spices to achieve the perfect balance of flavor. Initially, I used standard seasonings, but it wasn’t until I added smoked paprika and cayenne that the sliders really came to life. The result is a juicy patty that has just the right amount of heat, which pairs beautifully with fresh toppings.

I also discovered the importance of letting the mixture sit before forming the patties. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the chickpeas to absorb the spices, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious slider that holds together beautifully while cooking.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with spicy flavor and satisfying warmth
Healthy and nourishing, perfect for any meal
Versatile and can be served with your favorite sauces

Cooking with Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star of this recipe, providing not only protein but also fiber, making these sliders a nutritious option. When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a consistency where they remain slightly chunky. This texture helps the patties hold together during cooking while still offering a satisfying bite. A common mistake is over-mashing, which can lead to a mushy texture. You want to maintain some integrity in the beans to achieve the perfect slider experience.

Moreover, soaking dried chickpeas overnight then cooking them can amplify the flavor and texture even further compared to canned chickpeas. If you choose this route, use about 1.5 cups of soaked chickpeas and follow the same preparation steps. This technique adds a nuttier taste and a firmer texture to your sliders, enhancing their hearty feel.

Enhancing Flavor and Spice

The key to these sliders' boldness lies in the spice blend. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference; if you're cautious with spice, start with a quarter teaspoon. For an interesting twist, you might consider adding curry powder instead of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. Each spice plays an important role, with cumin providing earthiness and smoked paprika bringing a subtle sweetness alongside the heat.

I also recommend sautéing the garlic in a little olive oil before adding it to the mixture. This not only mellows its pungency but also brings out its natural sweetness, adding a depth of flavor to the patties. A golden-brown color is an indication that the garlic is ready to be mixed in, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Spicy Chickpea Sliders:

For the Sliders

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For Serving

Slider buns
Sliced avocado
Lettuce or spinach
Tomato slices
Your favorite sauce (like tahini or spicy mayo)

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your sliders:

Mash the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky.

Mix the Ingredients

Add the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix until well combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the cooked patties on slider buns and top with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and sauce of your choice.

Your spicy and delicious sliders are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding chopped jalapeños can boost the heat if desired.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These sliders are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair them with grilled vegetables for a wholesome meal, or offer a range of toppings to allow guests to customize their sliders. Consider providing pickled onions or a zesty slaw for a crunchy contrast, which adds another layer of flavor and texture to each bite.

For an extra punch, switch up the sauces. A yogurt-based sauce can cool down the spice, while a spicy mayo can amplify it. My favorite is a tangy tahini dressing—its creamy texture complements the spiciness of the patties beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

These sliders can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you're preparing for a party, cook the patties and store them separately from the buns and toppings. This will keep everything from getting soggy and allow you to easily reheat them when needed.

To reheat, simply place the patties in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of olive oil, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until heated through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Both methods will help maintain their delicious texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ How can I make the sliders gluten-free?

You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair well with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even a side of roasted vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked patties?

Absolutely! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.