10+ Chickpea Recipes to Brighten Your Meal Prep

Chickpeas are a versatile and nutritious ingredient you can use in many different meals. They are easy to cook with and can be added to salads, soups, stews, and more.

Chickpea recipes offer simple and tasty ways to add protein and fiber to your diet.

You don’t need to be an expert cook to enjoy chickpeas. Whether you want something quick or a dish to share with friends, there are many options to fit your taste and time.

Exploring different recipes can help you find new favorites that are both healthy and filling.

1) 20-Minute Marry Me Chickpeas

This dish is a quick and tasty way to enjoy chickpeas in a creamy sauce. You cook it all in one pan, which means less cleanup for you.

The flavors come together fast, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. The sauce is made with garlic, onion, and a mix of herbs.

You can use canned chickpeas to save time. Serve it with toasted bread or over rice to soak up the sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 1 can (about 540 ml) chickpeas, drained

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, oregano, and chili flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and stir well.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve warm with bread or rice.

For more details, check this 20-Minute Marry Me Chickpeas recipe.

2) Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

You can make vegan sticky sesame chickpeas quickly, usually in about 15 minutes. The dish is simple but full of flavor thanks to a tasty sesame sauce you mix right in the pan.

It’s a great option if you want a protein-packed meal that feels special. The chickpeas get nicely coated with a sticky, slightly sweet sauce that has a bit of ginger and garlic for extra taste.

You can serve this with rice or steamed veggies to make it a full meal. This recipe uses just a few easy ingredients.

You don’t need to spend much time prepping, so it’s perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C).
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas and soy sauce.
4. Add maple syrup and cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

3) Chickpea Shakshuka

Chickpea shakshuka is a tasty twist on the classic dish. You cook chickpeas in a spicy tomato sauce and then add eggs on top.

The chickpeas make the meal filling and add a nice texture. This dish is simple and quick, perfect for any meal.

You can make it in one pot, so cleanup is easy. If you like, add feta cheese for extra flavor.

Spices like cumin and chili powder give shakshuka a warm, rich taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 4 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Make small wells and crack eggs into the sauce.
6. Cover and cook for 5-8 minutes until eggs are set.
7. Top with feta if using and serve warm.

You can find more details on easy shakshuka with chickpeas here.

4) Hearty Chickpea Curry

Hearty chickpea curry is a tasty and filling dish that you can make in one pot. It uses simple ingredients like chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices to create rich flavors.

You can add spinach or other veggies to make it even more nutritious. This curry usually simmers for about 30 minutes, which helps the spices blend well.

Using coconut milk adds creaminess without any dairy, making it great if you want a vegan option. You can serve it with rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

If you want something quick, there are versions that cook in just 20 minutes, using pantry staples you likely already have.

Ingredients

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until soft.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and diced tomatoes; mix well.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add spinach in the last 5 minutes and cook until wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

5) Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas Snack

Crunchy roasted chickpeas make a great snack that’s both tasty and filling. You start with cooked or canned chickpeas, then toss them in olive oil and your favorite seasonings.

Roast them in the oven until they turn golden and crispy. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Shake the pan halfway through to help them cook evenly. You can use salt, smoked paprika, or any spices you like.

They’re perfect for munching on anytime or adding a crunchy topping to salads and soups.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or your choice of spices

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dry the chickpeas with a paper towel.
3. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and spices.
4. Spread chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring or shaking every 10 minutes until crispy.
6. Let cool before eating.

6) Creamy Chickpea Hummus

You can make creamy chickpea hummus easily with canned or cooked chickpeas. Blend the chickpeas with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.

Adding a little water or the cooking liquid helps create a light, creamy texture. Using fresh garlic gives your hummus a nice zing.

You can also add cumin for extra flavor if you like. This classic hummus works great as a dip or spread.

For a simple, tasty recipe, try this Quick & Creamy Hummus recipe.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained)
• ⅓ cup tahini
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Water or reserved chickpea liquid (as needed)

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water or chickpea liquid to reach creamy consistency.
3. Taste and add salt as needed.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

7) One-Pot Chickpea Stew

This one-pot chickpea stew is simple and hearty. You only need one pot, which makes cleanup easy.

The stew is full of flavor from spices, onions, and garlic, making it very comforting. You can use canned chickpeas and coconut milk to keep it creamy without adding dairy.

The stew cooks in about 30 minutes, so it’s great for busy days when you want a warm meal fast. This dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

You can enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15.5 oz) cooked chickpeas
• 1 medium to large onion, chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (14 oz each) unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin; cook 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

8) Refreshing Chickpea Salad

This refreshing chickpea salad is perfect for a warm day. You get cool, crunchy vegetables mixed with tender chickpeas.

It’s simple to make and full of fresh flavors. The salad uses lemon juice to add a bright and zesty taste.

You can enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish. It is healthy and easy to put together quickly.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix.
4. Chill for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

9) Savory Chickpea and Spinach Sauté

This dish is simple and full of flavor. Sauté chickpeas, fresh spinach, garlic, and onions together for a quick meal.

Add spices like ginger or your favorite herbs for extra taste. Serve it with bread or rice to soak up the juices.

This sauté tastes great warm and comes together in one pan. Using canned chickpeas makes it fast, but you can cook your own if you prefer.

Spinach adds a nice touch of green and a mild, fresh flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 lb fresh baby spinach or 16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tsp grated ginger or other spices

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C).
2. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in chickpeas and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any spices. Stir well.
6. Serve warm with rice or bread.

10) Spiced Chickpea Soup

This warm and tasty spiced chickpea soup uses cumin, paprika, and cinnamon for a cozy flavor. Chickpeas make it hearty and filling.

The soup feels creamy without using cream. Coconut milk and garlic give it a smooth texture and rich taste.

Add a little lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors. Enjoy this soup for lunch or a light dinner.

It’s simple to make and works well for a healthy meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 can coconut milk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and spices. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in chickpeas. Cook for 5 minutes to let them get slightly crispy.
4. Pour in coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
6. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve warm. Garnish with cilantro if you like.

This recipe is inspired by the creamy spiced chickpea soup with coconut and lime.