Chickpea patties are a delicious and versatile plant-based option that can satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters alike. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, these patties make for an excellent main dish, snack, or sandwich filling.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these recipes showcase how simple ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices can transform into golden, crispy patties with a tender inside.
Plus, making your own chickpea patties is a great way to control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and customize flavors exactly to your liking.
In this post, you’ll find three of the best vegan chickpea patties recipes, each with its own unique twist—from Mediterranean-inspired to spicy Indian flavors and even a smoky BBQ version. No matter your taste preference, these patties are easy to make, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First off, chickpea patties are incredibly easy and quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. They are naturally gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats, and completely vegan, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
What’s more, these patties are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, helping you stay full and energized. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create the perfect texture contrast that makes every bite satisfying.
Plus, they are incredibly versatile — serve them on buns, salads, or with dips, making them a great addition to any meal.
And if you love experimenting in the kitchen, these recipes let you add your own flair with different herbs, spices, or sauces. You’ll find links to some other fantastic vegan recipes below to complete your meal.
Ingredients
Mediterranean Chickpea Patties
- 1 1/2 cups canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Indian-Spiced Chickpea Patties
- 1 1/2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 green chili, deseeded and chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Smoky BBQ Chickpea Patties
- 1 1/2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (vegan)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or non-stick frying pan
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (optional for oven-baking)
- Parchment paper (optional)
Instructions
Mediterranean Chickpea Patties
- Pulse the chickpeas: In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas until they form a coarse, chunky mixture. Avoid pureeing into a paste.
- Mix ingredients: Transfer chickpeas to a bowl and add chopped onion, parsley, garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Form patties: Shape the mixture into 6 equal patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Cook patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove patties and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Indian-Spiced Chickpea Patties
- Process chickpeas: In a food processor, pulse chickpeas until crumbly but not pureed.
- Combine ingredients: Transfer to a bowl, stir in onion, garlic, ginger, chili, oats, garam masala, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
- Form the patties: With wet hands, shape the mixture into 6 patties.
- Cook: Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Fry patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
- Serve warm: Drain on paper towels and enjoy with chutney or vegan yogurt sauce.
Smoky BBQ Chickpea Patties
- Pulse chickpeas: Place chickpeas in a food processor and pulse until roughly mashed.
- Mix all ingredients: In a bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, green onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Shape patties: Form into 6 patties.
- Fry patties: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook patties 4-5 minutes each side until crispy and firm.
- Drain excess oil: Place patties on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.
Tips & Variations
For firmer patties, chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping.
Want to bake instead of fry? Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place patties on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Try adding finely chopped spinach, kale, or shredded carrots to boost nutrition and color.
Swap breadcrumbs for ground oats or crushed nuts for a gluten-free option.
Serve with tahini sauce, vegan tzatziki, or spicy ketchup for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Patty (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 120-140 kcal |
Protein | 6-7 grams |
Carbohydrates | 15-18 grams |
Dietary Fiber | 4-5 grams |
Fat | 4-6 grams (depends on oil used) |
Sodium | 200-300 mg (varies by added salt and sauce) |
Serving Suggestions
Chickpea patties are a fantastic base for various meals. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:
- Classic sandwich: Serve patties on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, vegan mayo, and pickles.
- Salad topper: Slice patties and add them atop a fresh green salad for protein-packed lunch.
- Wraps and pita pockets: Stuff patties into pita bread with cucumbers, tahini, and fresh herbs.
- Grain bowls: Pair patties with quinoa or brown rice, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing.
- Snack platter: Serve mini patties with an assortment of dips like hummus or vegan ranch for a party appetizer.
For more creative vegan dishes to complement your chickpea patties, check out these delicious recipes:
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, these vegan chickpea patties recipes offer an easy, nutritious, and flavorful way to enjoy the humble chickpea. From Mediterranean herbs to Indian spices and smoky BBQ notes, these patties cater to a variety of taste preferences and occasions.
They’re perfect for quick meals, batch cooking, or impressing guests with a homemade plant-based option.
Plus, they’re an excellent canvas for your creativity — mix in your favorite veggies, change up the spices, or try different cooking methods like baking or air frying. Don’t forget to explore more vegan recipes like the Julie Marie Eats Recipes or pair your patties with the creamy Low Sodium Hummus Recipe for a delicious meal combo.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Chickpea Patties
Description: These vegan chickpea patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for a healthy meal. Packed with protein and flavor, they are easy to make and great for sandwiches or salads.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Mash chickpeas in a bowl until mostly smooth.
- Add oats, onion, garlic, parsley, flaxseed mixture, and spices.
- Mix well until combined and form into 8 patties.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite sauce or in a sandwich.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 28g
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