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 cilantro, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 4-6 slider buns; Optional toppings: sliced tomatoes, avocado, or lettuce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders for a quick, satisfying meal! They’re packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for those busy weeknights or entertaining friends. The creamy chickpeas mixed with fresh herbs create a delightful mash that I simply can't resist. Served on mini slider buns, these sliders are a hit with both kids and adults. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or condiments, making them versatile for any taste preference.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:43:14.781Z

Making Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders has become one of my go-to recipes because they are so quick and delicious. I remember the first time I prepared them for a gathering; everyone couldn’t stop raving about how tasty they were! I love that the chickpeas provide a hearty texture combined with fresh herbs that brighten the dish.

I’ve learned that mashing the chickpeas slightly, instead of pureeing them completely, gives the sliders a wonderful bite and texture. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice really elevates the flavor, making them refreshing and enjoyable. These sliders can be served warm or cold, making them perfect for any occasion!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh herbs give a vibrant flavor that brightens each bite.
Nutritious chickpeas make for a satisfying and filling slider.
Great for meal prep; they taste even better the next day!

      

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro can transform standard chickpea patties into a flavor sensation. In this recipe, they not only add vibrant taste but also contribute subtle undertones that enhance the overall dish. Be sure to chop the herbs finely to distribute their flavors evenly throughout the chickpea mash. A good rule of thumb is to use a mix of roughly equal parts parsley and cilantro to create a well-rounded herb profile.

If you're not a fan of cilantro, feel free to substitute it with fresh basil or dill. Both herbs will provide a different but delightful flavor, ensuring the sliders remain aromatic and refreshing. I often experiment with various herb combinations, depending on what’s available in my fridge, and I always end up with a satisfying result.

Perfecting the Slider Patties

When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a consistency that retains some chunkiness. This texture creates a satisfying bite in the sliders, preventing them from becoming mushy. Use a fork or potato masher, but avoid a food processor unless you want a smoother paste. I recommend hand-mashing for better control over the final texture.

To ensure your patties hold together well during cooking, consider adding a binding agent. An optional tablespoon of mayonnaise or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can offer more stability without altering the flavor significantly. Forming them into uniform size helps them cook evenly—aim for about 2 inches in diameter.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These herbed chickpea smash sliders are delicious on their own but can be elevated with various toppings. I love adding sliced avocado and a dollop of sriracha mayo for a creamy, spicy kick. Fresh spinach or arugula adds a peppery note and a nice crunch, balancing the creaminess of the chickpeas. Get creative with your toppings—grated carrots or pickled onions can also add a nice touch.

If you happen to have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding an extra two minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
4-6 slider buns
Optional toppings: sliced tomatoes, avocado, or lettuce

Make sure to adjust the toppings to your preference for a personalized slider experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders:

Mash the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas, leaving some chunky bits for texture.

Mix in the Herbs

Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Stir until well combined.

Form Sliders

Using your hands, form the chickpea mixture into small patties suitable for your slider buns.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the cooked patties on the slider buns and add any optional toppings of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the chickpea mash.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, chickpea patties may crumble during cooking due to their moisture content. To combat this, make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly, and consider squeezing excess moisture out of your herbs before mixing them in. If the mixture feels too dry, adding a small amount of water or olive oil can help bind the ingredients better and create a moist dough.

If your sliders are sticking to the skillet, ensure your pan is adequately greased and heated. Use a non-stick skillet or carefully monitor the heat; too high a temperature can cause the patties to stick and burn. I often remove the lid while cooking, allowing the steam to escape, which enhances browning.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for a larger gathering or meal prep. To double the batch, simply use two cans of chickpeas and proportionally increase the herbs and seasonings. If you're making a large quantity, consider using a mixing bowl that allows for ample space to combine ingredients without spillage.

If you have a large family or plan to meal prep, cooking in batches can save time. Cook the patties in multiple batches if your skillet isn’t large enough, but always keep them warm in the oven at low heat (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.

Creative Variations

Beyond the fresh herbs, you can easily customize the flavor profile of your chickpea sliders. Adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika can introduce a delightful warmth and depth. For a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese into the mash for added richness.

For a completely different approach, try creating a spicy variation by mixing in diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce directly into the chickpea mixture. These small changes can yield a new take on this beloved slider, ensuring that each cooking session can offer something unique.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to soak and cook them until soft before mashing.

→ Can I prepare the chickpea mash in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mash a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the sliders before serving.

→ What if I’m allergic to certain herbs?

Feel free to substitute with herbs that you enjoy or omit them altogether for a plain chickpea slider.

→ Can I freeze the leftover chickpea mash?

Yes, the mash can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before forming patties.