Chickpea Burrito Bowls | Healthy & Easy Plant-Based Meal
Burrito bowls have become a popular go-to for anyone seeking a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Chickpea Burrito Bowls take this concept to the next level, offering a plant-based, protein-packed alternative that’s bursting with flavor. Each bowl combines hearty chickpeas, colorful vegetables, and a vibrant mix of spices that deliver the satisfying taste of a classic burrito without the wrap.
These bowls are perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or healthy dinners. They balance textures and flavors—creamy avocado, tender chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and zesty seasonings—creating a bowl that’s not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. The best part is their versatility: you can customize toppings, adjust spice levels, and even switch up grains or beans to suit your taste. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply seeking a wholesome alternative to traditional burritos, Chickpea Burrito Bowls are an easy, nutrient-dense solution for any mealtime.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make Chickpea Burrito Bowls, along with approximate calorie counts per serving:
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas (cooked or canned) | 1.5 cups | 400 |
| Brown rice (cooked) | 1 cup | 215 |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 medium | 40 |
| Corn kernels (fresh or frozen) | ½ cup | 75 |
| Red onion, diced | ½ medium | 25 |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup | 30 |
| Avocado, sliced | ½ medium | 120 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Lime juice | 2 tsp | 2 |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 2 tbsp | 1 |
| Optional toppings: salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, hot sauce | As desired | Varies |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the chickpeas: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chickpeas, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas are slightly crispy.
- Cook the rice: Prepare brown rice according to package instructions. Keep warm.
- Sauté vegetables: In a separate pan, sauté red bell pepper, red onion, and corn for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Assemble the bowls: Start with a base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with spiced chickpeas, sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices.
- Add finishing touches: Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle fresh cilantro, and add optional toppings like salsa, shredded cheese, or sour cream. Serve immediately.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Change the grains: Swap brown rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro for different textures.
- Add greens: Include romaine, spinach, or kale for extra fiber and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper for heat.
- Protein options: Mix chickpeas with black beans or kidney beans for variety.
- Dairy-free version: Skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 bowl, without optional toppings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~1035 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 150g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 30g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Serving Suggestions
Chickpea Burrito Bowls are hearty enough to be served on their own, but they pair beautifully with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a side of pico de gallo. For meal prep, store ingredients separately and assemble just before eating to keep avocados fresh and vegetables crisp. A squeeze of lime or a dollop of hot sauce just before serving elevates the flavors even more.
Chickpea Burrito Bowls
2
servings10
minutes15
minutes1035
kcalIngredients
1.5 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ medium red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ medium avocado, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional toppings: salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, hot sauce
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chickpeas, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes until chickpeas are slightly crispy.
- Prepare brown rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
- In a separate pan, sauté red bell pepper, red onion, and corn for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Assemble bowls: start with a base of rice, then add spiced chickpeas, sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices.
- Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and add optional toppings. Serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Make Ahead: Cook chickpeas, rice, and vegetables in advance. Store separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving to keep fresh ingredients like avocado and tomatoes crisp.
Freezing Tip: Freeze chickpeas and rice for meal prep, but add fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro after thawing.
FAQs
1: Can I make Chickpea Burrito Bowls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chickpeas, rice, and vegetables in advance and store separately in the fridge. Assemble just before eating to keep fresh ingredients like avocado and tomatoes crisp.
2: Can I freeze Chickpea Burrito Bowls?
You can freeze the chickpeas and rice, but it’s best to add fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro after thawing to maintain freshness and texture.
3: Are these bowls vegan and vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! Chickpea Burrito Bowls are naturally vegan and vegetarian. Simply omit any optional toppings like cheese or sour cream, or use plant-based alternatives.
4: Can I swap the grains?
Yes! Quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice work well as alternatives to brown rice for different textures and flavors.
5: How can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or your favorite hot sauce for extra heat. Adjust the spice to taste.
6: Can I add more protein?
Yes! Mix chickpeas with black beans, kidney beans, or grilled tofu for extra protein and variety.
7: How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked chickpeas, grains, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Assemble fresh before serving.
Conclusion
Chickpea Burrito Bowls are an easy, nutritious, and flavorful meal that works for any occasion. With hearty chickpeas, wholesome grains, fresh vegetables, and customizable toppings, they offer the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a delicious alternative to traditional burritos, these bowls are simple to prepare, visually appealing, and incredibly satisfying. Making them a regular part of your meal rotation will ensure you have a tasty, wholesome option ready whenever hunger strikes.
