Get ready to fall in love with Spicy Chickpea Patties! These golden, flavor-packed patties are just the thing when you want something quick, satisfying, and bursting with Middle Eastern-inspired flair. They blend creamy chickpeas with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and just enough heat to keep things exciting. Whether you’re a vegetarian, meal-prepper, or simply love vibrant flavors, Spicy Chickpea Patties are about to become your new weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Spicy Chickpea Patties is how pantry staples and a few fresh finds join forces for irresistible results. Every ingredient has a job—some bring earthiness, others punchy freshness, and a couple add that satisfying crispy bite.
- Chickpeas: Provide hearty texture and are the main source of protein in these patties. Canned chickpeas make things super speedy.
- Red onion: Adds a gentle bite and sweet undertone that plays perfectly with the spices.
- Garlic: For that irresistible savory aroma and ZING every good patty needs.
- Fresh cilantro: Brings a burst of color and herby brightness—sub parsley if you’re anti-cilantro.
- Ground cumin: Delivers warm, earthy undertones characteristic of Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses subtle smokiness and deep red color throughout each patty.
- Cayenne pepper: For that all-important kick—use less if you prefer things milder.
- Salt: Just the right amount brings all the flavors together.
- Lemon juice: Adds a zippy, bright note that balances the spice and refreshes every bite.
- Olive oil: Used inside the mix for richness and on the skillet for that craveable golden crust.
- Breadcrumbs (or oat flour): The secret to a crispy outside—oat flour keeps it gluten-free.
- Egg (or flax egg): Binds everything together; flax egg is perfect if you’re keeping it vegan.
- Olive oil (for cooking): Essential for that crispy-fried finish in the skillet.
How to Make Spicy Chickpea Patties
Step 1: Mash Your Chickpeas
Start by popping the drained and rinsed chickpeas into your food processor. Give them a few quick pulses—enough to mostly mash them while still leaving a few chunky bits for texture. This way, your Spicy Chickpea Patties won’t be mushy or too dense. If you don’t have a food processor, a fork works!
Step 2: Mix in the Good Stuff
Transfer those mashed chickpeas into a bowl. Add in the chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, breadcrumbs, and egg. Stir well so every bite is loaded with bold flavor, color, and just the right amount of heat.
Step 3: Shape the Spicy Chickpea Patties
With clean hands, divide the mixture into six portions and shape each into a small patty. Press them just firmly enough to hold together; the texture should feel slightly moist but not sticky.
Step 4: Sizzle Until Golden
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. When hot, place the patties gently in the pan. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, flipping once, until each one is golden brown and warmed through. If you prefer, you can also bake them for 20 minutes at 400°F (flipping halfway).
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Slide your beautifully golden Spicy Chickpea Patties onto a plate and serve them hot. Grab your favorite dip, wrap, or crisp salad and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Spicy Chickpea Patties
Garnishes
Top your Spicy Chickpea Patties with a sprinkling of extra cilantro, a dusting of smoked paprika, or a quick squeeze of fresh lemon. For extra flair, a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini swirl brings creamy contrast to that hint of heat.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a zesty cucumber-tomato salad, fluffy rice pilaf, or even some warm pita for a simple meal. Roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries are winners for a filling, colorful plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Spicy Chickpea Patties are ridiculously versatile! Tuck them into pita bread with crunchy slaw for a plant-based “burger,” break one up over a fresh salad, or serve as mini sliders for party appetizers. You can even stack them high as a protein-packed brunch option—don’t forget the avocado!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spicy Chickpea Patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They hold their shape well and the flavors only get better as they mingle.
Freezing
Let cooked patties cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Keep them on hand for up to three months—perfect for meal prepping or impromptu snacks.
Reheating
Reheat directly from the fridge in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. For frozen patties, thaw overnight in the fridge or pop straight from the freezer into a 350°F oven for 15 minutes—no soggy results, ever!
FAQs
Can I make Spicy Chickpea Patties without a food processor?
You sure can! Mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a little chunky. The rest of the ingredients stir in easily by hand.
Are these patties gluten-free?
They can be! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for oat flour or your favorite gluten-free alternative. Just make sure all substitutions are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
How spicy are Spicy Chickpea Patties?
With just a quarter teaspoon of cayenne, these patties have a warm, noticeable but gentle kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half the amount—or amp it up if you’re a heat lover!
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely. Place formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a golden and lighter result.
What dips go well with Spicy Chickpea Patties?
Classic yogurt, homemade tzatziki, creamy tahini, or even a zippy sriracha mayo are mouthwatering alongside these patties. Each gives a cooling contrast to the spices!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like homemade Spicy Chickpea Patties—they’re easy, endlessly adaptable, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you serve them as a main dish, a snack, or share them with friends, I promise they’ll become a go-to favorite. Grab your ingredients and give them a try—your tastebuds won’t regret it!
Print
Spicy Chickpea Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spicy Chickpea Patties are a flavorful and protein-packed vegetarian option that can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or in a wrap. With Middle Eastern-inspired spices, these patties are easy to make and versatile.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Mash Chickpeas: In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas until mostly mashed but still slightly chunky.
- Mix Ingredients: Transfer chickpeas to a bowl and mix in red onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, breadcrumbs, and egg. Stir until well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape mixture into 6 small patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with dip, in a wrap, or on a salad.
Notes
- To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
- You can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
