Packed with [protein-rich], chickpeas are a unique pulse that can transform dinner into a satisfying and flavorful meal for all. These dishes showcase the nutritious chickpea incorporated into curries and stews, mixed in tangy salads, and formed into falafel or burgers. Among our most popular chickpea dinners on the EatingWell site, these 20 meals have garnered four- and five-star ratings for their exceptional taste. You’ll definitely want to keep recipes like our Chhole (Chickpea Curry) and Chickpea & Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce in your regular meal lineup.
------Advertisement-----
Chhole (Chickpea Curry)
Andrew Scrivani
This flavorful Indian dish is a healthy chickpea curry that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. Also known as chana masala, this meal is both comforting and delicious.
------Advertisement-----
Cumin Chicken & Chickpea Stew
Drawing flavor inspiration from shawarma, this quick, protein-rich chicken stew recipe features spices like cumin, paprika, and pepper. Consider making a double batch and freezing it for a convenient healthy dinner option. Pair the stew with couscous and steamed broccoli.
Chickpea & Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This vegetarian grain bowl is packed with quinoa and chickpeas, offering ample plant-based protein. Prepare a batch of these flavorful grain bowls and store them in lidded containers for easy, healthy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
------Advertisement-----
Eggs in Tomato Sauce with Chickpeas & Spinach
Simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce with chickpeas and tender spinach, these eggs make for a quick and satisfying vegetarian dinner. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Opt for heavy cream to prevent curdling when combined with acidic tomatoes, as lower-fat alternatives may not hold up.
Zucchini-Chickpea Veggie Burgers with Tahini-Ranch Sauce
These veggie burgers will become a staple in your kitchen. Flavorful chickpea and zucchini patties are topped with a creamy, herb-infused tahini ranch sauce, juicy tomato slices, and peppery arugula, creating a fulfilling and nutritious homemade veggie burger. Serve these vegan burgers on buns or stuff them in pitas. Don’t forget to make extra sauce—it doubles as a dip for veggie sticks and, when thinned with water, transforms into a delightful salad dressing.
Vegan Coconut Chickpea Curry
For a quick 20-minute vegan curry, consider using pre-cut veggies from the grocery store salad bar. Enhance it into a complete, satisfying meal by serving it over cooked brown rice. When selecting simmer sauce, opt for one with 400 mg of sodium or less, and review the ingredient list to ensure it remains vegan. Add a few dashes of your preferred hot sauce at the end for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Chopped Power Salad with Creamy Cilantro Dressing
Brie Passano
This nutritious vegetarian salad incorporates chickpeas and quinoa for an added protein boost. A creamy dressing made by blending cilantro adds both color and flavor to the dish. Enjoy this cold salad for either lunch or dinner.
Chickpea & Potato Curry
This quick Indian-style curry can be whipped up using common ingredients like frozen peas, canned tomatoes, and chickpeas. Demonstrating how simple it is to create a curry sauce for an effortless vegetarian recipe, this dish pairs perfectly with whole-wheat naan for sopping up every bit of flavor.
Chickpea, Artichoke & Avocado Salad with Apple-Cider Dressing
This delectable 400-calorie salad is a valuable tool for weight management, offering a well-rounded mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats from an array of veggies and beans, all tossed in a zesty apple-cider vinaigrette. For meal-prepping lunches throughout the week, store the dressing and salad separately, ensuring the veggies are thoroughly dried before combining them.
Curried Chickpea Stew
Who says a vegetarian meal can’t be filling? Brimming with fiber-rich vegetables and chickpeas, this fragrant stew is truly satisfying.
Chickpea Dumplings in Curried Tomato Sauce
Inspired by a dish enjoyed in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India called “dharan ji kadhi,” our version features tender chickpea-flour dumplings infused with chiles and greens. Serve with naan to savor every bit of the sauce in this healthy vegetarian dinner loaded with protein.
Roasted Chickpea Curry Bowl
This meal offers a substantial dose of plant-based protein! The curry-infused cauliflower and chickpeas provide a hearty and gratifying experience, while quinoa contributes an additional protein punch.
Chickpea & Quinoa Grain Bowl
Grain bowls come in countless variations, but this classic rendition keeps it simple and timeless with hummus, quinoa, avocado, and an abundance of veggies!
One-Pot Coconut Milk Curry with Chickpeas
Featuring an assortment of vegetables, this vegan one-pot dish introduces diverse textures and flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. The sweet potato beautifully balances the savory spices. Pair this vibrant and flavorful curry with rice or rice noodles.
Turmeric Rice Bowl with Garam Masala Root Vegetables & Chickpeas
Topped with leftover spiced roasted root vegetables and chickpeas, this aromatic turmeric rice bowl draws inspiration from Indian flavors for an effortless vegetarian dinner.
Crispy Chickpea Grain Bowl with Lemon Vinaigrette
The highlight of these vegetarian grain bowls is the tangy lemon vinaigrette, harmonizing a satisfying blend of quinoa, toasted pumpkin seeds, roasted chickpeas, and kale. Whip up these bowls for easy meal-prep lunches or a healthy and fulfilling dinner.
Meal-Prep Falafel Bowls with Tahini Sauce
Thanks to convenient items like frozen falafel and steam-in-bag fresh green beans, these quick couscous bowls come together in just 20 minutes. While the other ingredients cook, whisk up a simple tahini sauce.
Slow-Cooker Spanish Chickpea Soup
Inspired by cocido, the robust stew of assorted meats, chickpeas, and vegetables considered a Spanish culinary gem, this easy soup recipe strikes a balance between meaty satisfaction and healthy goodness. For a more authentic touch, opt for a 4-ounce slab of Serrano ham or prosciutto from your deli counter instead of pre-sliced options. If a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker isn’t available, consider the stovetop variation.
Roasted Buffalo Chickpea Wraps
This vegetarian twist on a Buffalo chicken wrap brings the beloved spicy Buffalo flavor to crispy roasted chickpeas nestled in a simple wrap with carrot, celery, and blue cheese. Whether packed for a healthy, on-the-go lunch or served on game day as a protein-packed snack, these wraps are sure to please.
Falafel Burgers
Featuring pureed chickpeas seasoned with classic falafel flavors, these veggie burgers are a delightful meatless alternative. By browning them in a skillet and finishing in the oven, you achieve the perfect texture. Serve with tzatziki or tahini sauce, pickled red onions, lettuce, and tomatoes for a satisfying meal.