Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach

Name: Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Additional buffalo sauce

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up these Buffalo Chickpea Sliders with Spinach whenever I need a quick and satisfying meal. The spicy buffalo sauce perfectly complements the earthy chickpeas, while the fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch. I typically serve these sliders at gatherings, and they always steal the show. If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional sliders, this recipe will definitely become a new favorite in your household. Plus, they are simple to make and packed with flavor!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:53:27.845Z

When I first tried making Buffalo Chickpea Sliders, I was amazed at how well the chickpeas absorbed the flavors of the buffalo sauce. The combination creates a hearty, protein-packed base that doesn’t compromise on taste. I remember experimenting with different spices and vegetables until I hit the perfect balance that everyone at my table loved.

One key tip I discovered is to mash the chickpeas just enough to keep some texture but not so much that they turn into a puree. This gives the sliders a nice bite while holding together beautifully on a bun. Now, they’ve become a staple for my family and friends!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Spicy and flavorful buffalo sauce that satisfies cravings
Nutritious chickpeas loaded with protein and fiber
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients

      

Building Flavor with Buffalo Sauce

The star of these Buffalo Chickpea Sliders is undoubtedly the buffalo sauce. This spicy condiment elevates the dish, providing a kick that pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of chickpeas. When choosing your buffalo sauce, consider the heat level; some brands are spicier than others. I recommend starting with a medium heat sauce if you’re unsure, as it can always be adjusted later with additional sauce. Also, if you're keen on making your own buffalo sauce, combining hot sauce with melted butter and a dash of vinegar will give you a fresh, delicious base.

When mixing in the buffalo sauce, aim for an even distribution throughout the mixture. This ensures every bite of the slider delivers a satisfying flavor punch. If you find the mixture is too dry after adding the sauce, a splash of water or a little extra buffalo sauce can help achieve the right consistency. The goal is a mixture that holds together well but isn't too wet or runny.

Chickpea Texture and Binding

Chickpeas are not just the protein powerhouse in this dish; their texture plays a vital role in forming patties. Mashing the chickpeas until they are mostly smooth, while still retaining some chunks, creates a hearty texture that contrasts nicely with the soft slider buns. Ensure you don't over-mash; otherwise, you might end up with a paste rather than bites of distinct chickpeas in the slider. If you find that your patties are too crumbly, adding a little more buffalo sauce or a splash of water can work wonders in binding them together.

Breadcrumbs are essential not only for structure but also for absorbing moisture, which helps the patties maintain their form during cooking. If you're aiming for a gluten-free option, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Both alternatives should provide the binding properties needed while keeping the sliders satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your sliders:

For the Sliders

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slider buns

For Serving

Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Additional buffalo sauce

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your sliders:

Mash the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, add the drained chickpeas. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash them until they are mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.

Mix Ingredients

Stir in the chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Form Patties

Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape each into a patty. Make sure they are compact so they hold together while cooking.

Cook the Sliders

In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble and Serve

Place each patty on a slider bun, top with lettuce and a slice of tomato, and drizzle additional buffalo sauce if desired.

Enjoy your sliders warm, and feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some shredded cheese to the sliders while cooking, or serve with a side of creamy ranch dressing for dipping.

Serving Variations

These sliders are incredibly versatile, allowing for various toppings and sides. Besides lettuce and tomato, consider adding sliced pickles or a dollop of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat from the buffalo sauce. Another great topping is avocado; its creaminess works beautifully against the spice. You can also turn these sliders into a wrap by using a large lettuce leaf as a substitute for the bun, making it a lighter option.

For a side, sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad complement the sliders well, adding a touch of sweetness or crunch. If you're serving these at a gathering, set up a build-your-own slider bar with different toppings and sauces so everyone can customize their experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain their texture when reheating, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until warmed through and slightly crispy again. Microwaving is convenient but may leave them a bit soggy, so be cautious with that method.

For longer storage, these patties freeze exceptionally well. Place uncooked patties between layers of wax paper in an airtight bag and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook them as directed. This makes it easy to have a healthy, flavor-packed meal ready at a moment's notice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chickpea mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just form the patties and cook them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

If you don't have chickpeas, you can use black beans or lentils instead for a similar texture and flavor.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and slider buns.

→ Can I bake the sliders instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.