Chickpeas can do a lot more than just sit in a hummus bowl. These recipes show how versatile they are—from crisp snacks and spicy dips to filling stews and salads. Whether you’re working with canned or dried, chickpeas bring texture, protein, and a mild nuttiness that pairs with bold flavors or fresh ingredients. This list spans meals, sides, and snacks that make chickpeas anything but boring.

Chickpea Salad Recipe

A white fish-shaped dish filled with chickpea salad mixed with chopped herbs and vegetables sits on a light wooden surface—one of the most satisfying chickpea dishes for those who love filling meals.
Chickpea Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This salad mixes chickpeas with fresh vegetables and a simple vinaigrette. It’s crisp, colorful, and easy to prep ahead. Red onion, cucumber, and tomato add crunch and brightness. A dash of lemon juice ties everything together.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad Recipe

Chickpea Tuna Salad

Three romaine lettuce leaves topped with a mixture of chickpeas, tuna, chopped eggs, and green onions on a white plate—one of our favorite filling meals for fans of fast recipes and delicious Chickpea dishes.
Chickpea Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Chickpeas stand in for or team up with tuna in this protein-packed dish. The texture mimics tuna while offering a plant-forward twist. It’s great in sandwiches or eaten straight with a fork. A little mayo or tahini makes it creamy.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Tuna Salad

Spicy Bacon Chickpea Burgers

Spicy Bacon Chickpea Burgers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These patties combine smoky bacon with mashed chickpeas for a burger that’s both hearty and full of flavor. Spices and breadcrumbs help bind everything together. Crisp the outside in a skillet for a satisfying texture. Top with slaw or a spicy mayo.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Chickpea Burgers

Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet

Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

A one-pan dish featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, olives, and herbs. It’s warm, tangy, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Serve it with crusty bread or spooned over rice. It comes together quickly and keeps well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet

Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Vegan White Chickpea Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This chili skips the meat but keeps the flavor with chickpeas, green chilies, and creamy coconut or cashew base. White beans or potatoes add body. It’s cozy, thick, and just spicy enough. A lime wedge on top brings it to life.
Get the Recipe: Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Pumpkin 

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Pumpkin . Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This rich curry balances sweet, earthy vegetables with creamy coconut and a hint of spice. Chickpeas hold up well and soak in the sauce. Pumpkin adds depth and soft texture. It’s best served with rice or naan.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Pumpkin 

Curry Coconut Chickpea Stew

Curry Coconut Chickpea Stew. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

A comforting bowl of chickpeas simmered in curry and coconut milk with garlic and ginger. The sauce is thick and aromatic. Add greens or root vegetables to round it out. A staple for cold evenings or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Curry Coconut Chickpea Stew

Chickpea Burgers

Low angle shot of 2 chickpea burgers on seeded buns with all the fixings.
Chickpea Burgers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These meatless burgers use chickpeas, spices, and breadcrumbs for a flavorful patty. Pan-fried or baked, they hold up well on a bun. They’re mild enough for topping with bold sauces or fresh veggies. A solid go-to for plant-based meals.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Burgers

Easy and Delicious Chickpea Chopped Salad

Easy and Delicious Chickpea Chopped Salad. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Chopped veggies and chickpeas are tossed in a tangy dressing for a fresh, crunchy dish. Red pepper, cucumber, and parsley bring color and bite. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Great as a lunch or side.
Get the Recipe: Easy and Delicious Chickpea Chopped Salad

Lemony Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Lemony Quinoa Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Flavorful Eats.

A bright salad with chickpeas, fluffy quinoa, and a lemony dressing. It’s light but filling, with fresh herbs and vegetables throughout. Good warm or chilled. Works well for potlucks or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Lemony Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl

Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Chickpeas add bulk to this bold pasta bowl tossed with spicy chimichurri sauce. It’s herb-forward and full of garlic and chili. Use your favorite short pasta shape to soak it all up. Serve warm or room temp.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chickpeas and sweet potatoes simmer together in a tomato-based stew with warming spices. It’s thick, satisfying, and comes together easily. Great with rice or flatbread. Even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Pasta e Ceci – Italian Pasta and Chickpea Stew

Pasta e Ceci – Italian Pasta and Chickpea Stew. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This rustic Italian dish combines pasta and chickpeas in a brothy, tomato-based sauce. Garlic, rosemary, and olive oil add depth. The result is thick like a soup and perfect with grated cheese. A true comfort classic.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Ceci – Italian Pasta and Chickpea Stew

Roasted Chickpeas

A top-down view of a glass bowl filled with roasted chana.
Roasted Chickpeas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tossed in oil and spices, chickpeas roast to a crunchy finish that makes them irresistible. They’re great as a snack or salad topping. Try different spice mixes like paprika, cumin, or chili powder. Store in an airtight container for crunch.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chickpeas

Lentil and Butternut Squash Vegetarian Chili with Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Crackers

Lentil and Butternut Squash Vegetarian Chili with Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Crackers. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This chili combines earthy lentils with sweet squash and a hint of spice. The homemade chickpea quinoa crackers bring crunch and heat. It’s a full meal in a bowl with bold contrast. Ideal for cold weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Lentil and Butternut Squash Vegetarian Chili with Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Crackers

Chickpea Pesto Sandwich

Chickpea Pesto Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mashed chickpeas are mixed with pesto and layered on crusty bread. Add roasted veggies or fresh greens for texture. The chickpeas soak up the pesto flavor beautifully. A fast, no-heat meal option.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Pesto Sandwich

Spicy Chickpea Dip

A close up image of spicy chickpea dip in a bowl.
Spicy Chickpea Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This dip blends chickpeas with chili, garlic, and lemon for a fiery twist on hummus. It’s thick, smooth, and great with pita or veggies. Adjust the spice level to your liking. Keeps well in the fridge for snacking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chickpea Dip

Kung Pao Chickpeas

Kung pao chickpea dish in a bowl with rice and skillet off to the left.
Kung Pao Chickpeas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A twist on the classic dish, this version uses chickpeas instead of chicken. The sauce is spicy, sweet, and sticky. Tossed with bell peppers and peanuts for crunch. Serve over rice for a fast meal.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas

Buffalo Chickpea Wrap

An image of buffalo chickpea wraps on a plate.
Buffalo Chickpea Wrap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chickpeas are coated in spicy buffalo sauce and wrapped with crisp greens and creamy dressing. A great meatless option for lunch or dinner. Add avocado or slaw for more bite. Portable and easy to assemble.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chickpea Wrap

Chickpea and Avocado Salad

A bowl of chickpea salad with cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Scattered tomatoes and a spoon are visible around the bowl.
Chickpea and Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Creamy avocado meets firm chickpeas in this fresh, simple salad. Lime juice and herbs brighten the mix. It’s quick to make and filling enough for lunch. Serve alone, in wraps, or over greens.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea and Avocado Salad

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About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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