Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach

Name: Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Optional toppings: avocado, vegan mayo, or pickles

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love these Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach! The combination of spicy chickpeas and fresh greens makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I often find myself craving these sliders, especially on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet flavorful. The kick from the buffalo sauce paired with the creaminess of the chickpeas creates a delicious balance. Plus, they come together in just a short time, making it an easy recipe I always return to.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:45:27.719Z

When I first experimented with buffalo chickpeas, I was amazed at how versatile they are. I used cooked chickpeas, combined them with traditional buffalo sauce, and the flavors were extraordinary! Adding spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also brings a refreshing taste that complements the heat of the sauce perfectly.

To take these sliders to the next level, I recommend toasting the buns slightly before assembling. This adds a nice crunch and holds up better against the filling. Serve them with a side of crunchy veggies or fries, and you've got a winning meal!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Spicy kick that awakens your taste buds
Healthy spin with the addition of fresh spinach
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings or family dinners

      

Elevating Flavor with Buffalo Sauce

The star ingredient of these sliders is undoubtedly the buffalo sauce. It not only adds a spicy kick but also infuses the chickpea mixture with a rich, tangy flavor. If you prefer more control over the heat level, consider using a milder buffalo sauce or mixing it with a bit of yogurt to temper the spiciness. Trust me, balancing the sauce intensity is key to matching your taste preferences while still achieving that signature buffalo flavor.

When incorporating the buffalo sauce, make sure to mix it into the chickpeas thoroughly. This ensures that every bite bursts with flavor. If the chickpeas are not mashed well enough, the mixture can end up dry, affecting the overall texture. Aim for a consistency that is moist yet still holds its shape when forming patties. If you find the mix becoming too wet, simply add more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture.

Perfecting Your Chickpea Sliders

When shaping the patties, uniformity is key for even cooking. Try to make each slider about 1-inch thick; this ensures they cook through thoroughly while developing a nice golden crust. Don’t worry if they seem delicate initially; they will firm up as they cook. For best results, chill the patties for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking. This will help them hold together better in the skillet, reducing the chances of them falling apart during cooking.

Cooking your sliders in a non-stick skillet is essential to achieving that perfect golden exterior. Start with medium heat to avoid burning while allowing enough time for the sliders to cook through. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust, which usually takes about 5 minutes per side. For an added touch, you could also finish them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to ensure they’re heated through without overcooking on the outside.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Buffalo Chickpea Sliders

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Optional toppings: avocado, vegan mayo, or pickles

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the buffalo chickpea sliders:

Mash the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, mash the drained chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until slightly chunky.

Mix Ingredients

Add the buffalo sauce, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix until well combined.

Form Sliders

Shape the mixture into 4 burger patties. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns, then place a patty on each bun. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy Buffalo Chickpea Sliders!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or serve with a cooling condiment like vegan mayo.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can easily be made ahead of time, making them ideal for meal prep. Once you form the patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply cook from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked sliders in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or on the stove over medium heat for similar results. This will help retain their crispy texture rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Topping Suggestions and Variations

Toppings can truly elevate your Buffalo Chickpea Sliders experience. I recommend creamy avocado or vegan mayo to balance out the heat, but feel free to get creative! Try adding crunchy pickles or fresh sliced radishes for an extra pop of flavor. You can also top them with a generous sprinkle of vegan cheese to melt over the patties or diced scallions for a fresh finish.

If you want to mix things up, consider alternative greens besides spinach. Kale or arugula can provide different textures and nutritional benefits. For a twist on the traditional slider, swap out the slider buns for lettuce wraps for a lighter option, or even use whole grain or gluten-free buns to cater to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas save time and are convenient for this recipe.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with veggie sticks, fries, or a simple salad.