Spicy Chickpea Sliders

Name: Spicy Chickpea Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 mini burger buns; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love experimenting with flavors in my kitchen, and these Spicy Chickpea Sliders are one of my favorite creations. They are not only bursting with spices but also make for a satisfying meal without being overly heavy. I enjoy serving them with a tangy yogurt sauce and fresh veggies, which complement the spiciness perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are super easy to whip up and offer a delightful twist on traditional burger recipes.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:25:10.509Z

When I first decided to make these Spicy Chickpea Sliders, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. After countless adjustments to the spices, I finally reached the perfect blend that brought out the chickpeas' natural flavor while adding a delightful kick. My family loved them, and I knew I had a winner!

One tip I learned along the way is to lightly mash the chickpeas rather than puree them entirely; this way, the sliders retain a lovely texture. Pairing them with a fresh avocado or arugula adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the spice beautifully.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Packed with a spicy, savory flavor that satisfies
Great texture that holds together perfectly
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

Perfecting the Slider Mixture

When creating the chickpea slider mixture, achieving the right consistency is key. You want to lightly mash the chickpeas until they are slightly smooth yet still retain some texture. If you over-mash them, the patties may turn out too dense and lose that delightful bite. Aim for a chunky texture that allows the spices and other ingredients to highlight their vibrant flavors. A light hand with the masher will yield the best result.

The breadcrumbs in this recipe serve a dual purpose: they not only help bind the mixture but also contribute to the texture of the sliders. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. This swap will alter the taste slightly but still provide that essential binding quality. Just be sure to adjust the amount to avoid a too-wet mixture.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Patties

When cooking the sliders, make sure your skillet is preheated over medium heat before adding the olive oil. A properly heated skillet is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust on the patties. If the heat is too low, the sliders will absorb excess oil and become soggy; too high, and they may burn before cooking through. Look for a golden edge as an indicator that they’ve developed a nice crust, which enhances the overall flavor.

To further ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan; this can reduce the temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if needed, allowing each slider to have its fair share of contact with the heated skillet. This technique not only improves texture but also helps each patty retain its shape while absorbing the delicious flavors of the spices.

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 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 mini burger buns

For the Yogurt Sauce

1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Salt to taste

Make sure to have all these on hand for a delicious cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your sliders:

Prepare the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, add the drained chickpeas. Use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash them until slightly smooth but still chunky.

Mix Ingredients

Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until combined.

Form the Sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your burger buns.

Cook the Sliders

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

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Assemble and Serve

Place the sliders on buns, top with yogurt sauce, and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy sliders!

Pro Tips

Try adding some chopped jalapeños to the slider mixture for an extra kick, or swap the yogurt sauce for a spicy sriracha mayo to change things up.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have any leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to regain that crispy exterior. Alternatively, the microwave can be used, but it may leave them a bit softer. To maintain the best texture, I recommend using a skillet whenever possible.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing individual patties. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed, making for a quick meal option.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the spices in these sliders to fit your palate. For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or even some chipotle powder. You could also introduce a hint of sweetness by mixing in some finely grated carrot or sweet potato into the slider mixture. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also offer a colorful visual appeal when you serve them.

If you want to spice things up, consider adding chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers to the mix. This will elevate the heat level while contributing an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese in the mixture can create a delightful creaminess that pairs well with the fresh yogurt sauce. Experimenting with these variations will make the sliders enjoyable every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

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

→ Can I freeze the chickpea patties?

Absolutely! You can freeze cooked or uncooked patties. Just make sure to seal them well in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They go well with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

→ Are these sliders vegetarian?

Yes, these Spicy Chickpea Sliders are entirely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using a dairy-free yogurt.