Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet

Name: Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Cooking

I absolutely love cooking, and this Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals. It’s not only quick to prepare, but the smoky flavors blending with the hearty chickpeas and savory spices create a comforting dish that warms my soul. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when I want something nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s a huge hit with friends, making it a wonderful option for gatherings. Let me show you how to create this delightful dish in just one skillet!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:49:35.239Z

When I first tried making this Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet, I was amazed by how simple yet fulfilling it was. The smoky paprika gives an incredible depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chickpeas, and the rice absorbs all the delightful juices from the spices. I love how everything can be made in just one skillet, which means less cleanup!

After experimenting with various seasonings, I discovered that adding a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving elevates the dish to another level. It creates a balance that brightens the whole meal, making it refreshing and delicious. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal that comes together quickly
Smoky flavors that tantalize the taste buds
Nutritious and packed with protein from chickpeas

      

Unlocking the Flavors

The combination of smoked paprika and cumin is what truly elevates the Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet. Smoked paprika adds depth and a rich smoky aroma, while cumin provides a warm, earthy background that enhances the chickpeas’ flavor. As you sauté the spices with the onion and garlic, your kitchen will be enveloped in an inviting scent. Be careful not to overcook the spices; aromatic notes can turn bitter if left too long on direct heat. Just two minutes of cooking will ensure they bloom perfectly.

Timing is also key when incorporating chickpeas. Since they are already cooked in the can, they only need a brief sauté—about 2 minutes—allowing them to blend with the spices without losing their texture. This quick integration ensures that every bite is infused with flavor, but keep in mind not to mash them during this step. A gentle stirring is all that’s needed to keep them intact.

Perfecting Rice Texture

The type of rice chosen plays an essential role in the dish's final texture. Long-grain rice is ideal due to its ability to stay fluffy and separate, absorbing the broth without becoming mushy. If you wish to experiment, you could try basmati or jasmine rice for a fragrant twist, but adjust the cooking time slightly, as these varieties may require different liquid ratios and cooking durations.

When simmering the rice, make sure to keep the skillet covered tightly. This traps the steam needed for cooking and helps achieve that perfect consistency. After cooking for about 20 minutes, check for tenderness, and let it sit covered for a few minutes afterward. This resting period allows any remaining moisture to be absorbed, resulting in a well-cooked rice that’s fluffy and aromatic.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in smoked paprika and cumin, followed by the chickpeas. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to coat the chickpeas.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice and vegetable broth to the skillet; stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

Try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great aspects of the Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet is its make-ahead convenience. This dish can easily be prepared in advance and refrigerated for 3-4 days. When storing, keep it in an airtight container to retain freshness. Reheating is just as simple; just add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore some moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.

You can also batch-cook this skillet as it freezes beautifully. Once cooled, divide it into portions and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a touch of liquid as needed to revive the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Smoky Chickpea Rice Skillet is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness or atop a bed of sautéed spinach for added nutrition. For a bit of crunch, topping it with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds adds texture and can elevate the meal even further.

If you're looking to add a protein boost, shredded chicken or tofu can be incorporated. Just sauté them with the onions at the beginning or add cooked tofu when you mix in the chickpeas. Vegetarian or vegan, this dish can easily adapt, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy the delicious flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for quick meals.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it's already vegan as all ingredients used are plant-based!