Crispy Chickpea Sliders

Name: Crispy Chickpea Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Slider buns; Lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Your favorite sauce or aioli

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love making these Crispy Chickpea Sliders for a quick and satisfying meal. The blend of spices creates a delicious flavor profile that appeals to everyone, while the crispy exterior and soft interior offer a delightful texture. We often serve these sliders with fresh toppings and a tangy sauce, making them a family favorite! Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who appreciates a simple yet tasty dish, these sliders will surely become a staple in your home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T23:58:31.082Z

When I first experimented with these chickpea sliders, I was looking for a healthy yet filling option for lunch. The crispy texture is achieved by pan-frying, which keeps the patties from becoming too dry while maintaining that satisfying crunch. It's all about balancing the frying time to get that golden brown without overcooking the chickpeas.

One great tip I discovered is to let the mixture sit for a while before forming the patties. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite packed with deliciousness. I also love experimenting with different toppings based on what I have on hand!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with a flavorful, tender inside
Versatile and customizable toppings
Great for meal prep or quick lunches
Simple ingredients that deliver on taste

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your chickpea sliders is crucial for a satisfying bite. When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a mixture that still retains some chunkiness; this will create a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender interior. If you mash them too smooth, your sliders may lack the necessary structure and could fall apart during cooking. A fork is typically sufficient, but if you prefer a smoother consistency, a potato masher works well too.

Additionally, allowing the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes before forming patties can help enhance the cohesion. This brief resting period allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and bind the mixture together better. If you find the mixture too wet, adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs can help firm it up, ensuring that your sliders hold their shape while cooking.

Flavor Variations

While the current seasoning blend gives the sliders a fantastic flavor, feel free to experiment! Adding finely chopped jalapeños can give the sliders a spicy kick, while fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley will add brightness and freshness. You could also incorporate grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrients. When doing so, remember to adjust the breadcrumbs as necessary to maintain the right texture.

Another tasty twist is to mix in different spices such as coriander or ground turmeric, which not only enhances the flavor but also gives the sliders a vibrant color. If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, try smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. These variations can easily transform your sliders into a dish that feels completely new each time you make them!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you're preparing these sliders ahead of time, they store beautifully in the fridge. After cooking, allow the sliders to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They can last up to four days in the fridge, and you can reheat them either in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

When it comes to serving, think beyond the classic toppings! Try adding pickled vegetables, cheese slices, or even avocado for a creamy element. A quick yogurt-based sauce mixed with garlic and lemon juice can be a refreshing addition that brightens the overall flavor. These sliders also pair wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your sliders:

For the Sliders

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

Slider buns
Lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Your favorite sauce or aioli

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your crispy sliders:

Mash Chickpeas

In a large bowl, mash the drained chickpeas with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.

Combine Ingredients

Add in the bread crumbs, chopped onion, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form Patties

Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns. Ensure they're well-formed to avoid breaking during cooking.

Cook Sliders

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

Assemble and Serve

Place the crispy sliders on buns, add toppings like lettuce and tomatoes, and drizzle with your favorite sauce. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Make sure the patties are compact enough to hold their shape when cooking. You can also bake them for a healthier option—just brush with a bit of oil and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Ingredient Roles

Chickpeas are the star ingredient of this recipe, providing both protein and fiber, while also contributing to the sliders' delightful texture. Their natural creaminess helps bind the mixture together, eliminating the need for added eggs or other binders, making this recipe entirely plant-based. If chickpeas are unavailable, you can substitute them with canned white beans, like cannellini or navy beans, to achieve a similar consistency and flavor profile.

The bread crumbs in this recipe are not just for binding; they also create that sought-after crunch. They absorb excess moisture from the chickpeas and ensure that the sliders cook to a perfect golden brown on the outside. Use panko bread crumbs for an even crispier outcome, or if you're gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free bread crumbs to keep this dish suitable for all dietary needs.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sliders seem to fall apart while cooking, it may be due to excessive moisture in the chickpeas or not enough binding from the bread crumbs. Make sure to drain and rinse your chickpeas thoroughly, and consider letting your mixture rest as discussed earlier. If you're still facing issues, try refrigerating the formed patties for about 30 minutes before cooking; this will help them firm up and maintain their shape.

On the other hand, if the sliders are coming out too dry, it may be that the breadcrumbs you used absorbed too much moisture. In this case, adding a tablespoon or two of water or even a splash of vegetable broth can help achieve a better consistency, making sure the sliders stay moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them first before using them in this recipe.

→ How can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Substitute the bread crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ What can I use instead of olive oil?

You can use coconut oil or avocado oil for frying, both work well.

→ Can I freeze the slider patties?

Absolutely! Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Thaw and cook directly from frozen when ready to eat.