Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders

Name: Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Tzatziki sauce or your favorite condiment

Highlighted under: Natural Inspiration

I’ve always been on the lookout for vegetarian options that pack a punch, and these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders have quickly become a family favorite. Vibrant and refreshing, these sliders combine the earthiness of chickpeas with a medley of fresh herbs that make each bite burst with flavor. What I love most about this recipe is how quick it is to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a casual gathering.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:37:35.214Z

When I first tried making chickpea sliders, I was amazed at how satisfying they were. The first batch was simple, but adding fresh herbs like parsley and dill elevated the flavor profile tremendously. I realized that the key to achieving a lovely texture is mashing the chickpeas just enough to retain some of their chunkiness while blending them with the herbs.

One evening, I decided to experiment with different toppings, and a dollop of tzatziki transformed my sliders into a delicious Mediterranean delight. I encourage you to play around with the ingredients—you'll find that the versatility of this recipe knows no bounds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Nutritious and filling without being heavy
Simple ingredients that make meal prep a breeze

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in the chickpea mixture is crucial for the sliders' success. When mashing the chickpeas, leave some chunks for added texture so each bite doesn't become overly mushy. The combination of chickpeas and breadcrumbs helps the patties maintain their shape while adding a satisfying crunch when cooked. If the mixture feels too wet, you can incorporate a few extra tablespoons of breadcrumbs to help firm it up.

It's also essential to keep an eye on the cooking process. A non-stick skillet is ideal for preventing the patties from sticking, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust. If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook evenly throughout while achieving that perfect crispiness.

Flavor Variations and Additions

While the fresh herbs in this recipe are wonderful, feel free to customize based on your tastes or what you have on hand. For a slightly different flavor profile, try adding fresh basil or mint to the mixture. You can also experiment with spices such as cumin or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Just remember to keep the balance so that no single flavor overwhelms the delightful chickpea base.

If you're catering to specific dietary needs, these sliders are versatile. To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. For a nut-free version, make sure any sauces or additional toppings are free of nuts, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sliders without worry.

Ingredients

Slider Patties

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

For Assembly

4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Tzatziki sauce or your favorite condiment

Make sure to adjust the amounts to suit your taste.

Steps

Prepare the Chickpea Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until they are mostly smooth with some chunks remaining. Stir in the chopped parsley, dill, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually mix in the breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together.

Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch to ensure they cook evenly.

Cook the Patties

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each patty on a slider bun and top with lettuce, tomato slices, and tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Feel free to customize your sliders with additional toppings!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chickpea mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are excellent for meal prep! You can make the chickpea mixture a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together even more. When ready to cook, just shape the patties and proceed as directed.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they regain their crispy exterior. You can also freeze the uncooked patties. Check the mixture is well-chilled, then arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a minute or two to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these sliders isn't just about the toppings; it's about creating a well-rounded meal. Consider pairing them with a side salad featuring a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors. Roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries also work beautifully, offering a wholesome contrast to the crunchy sliders.

For an extra touch, serve with a variety of dips or sauces, like a zesty garlic aioli or a spicy harissa yogurt. This allows guests to customize their sliders while enhancing the overall dining experience. Remember, presentation matters too—add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving for an appealing look.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or lentils as an alternative, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Experiment with basil, cilantro, or chives to enhance the flavor according to your preference.