Looking to shed a few pounds or build muscle? Either way, protein is your best friend!
Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders—it helps keep you full, curbs cravings, and even gives your metabolism a boost, making weight loss easier. But if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, getting enough protein can feel like a challenge.
The good news? Plant-based foods can be protein powerhouses too! And one of the best? Chickpeas.
A single cup of cooked chickpeas delivers 30% of your daily protein needs, plus a hefty dose of fiber to keep you satisfied. On top of that, they’re loaded with essential minerals like magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus—key nutrients for strong, healthy bones.
So, if you’re ready to level up your plant-based protein game, I’ve got 15 delicious, high-protein chickpea recipes for you. Let’s dig in!
1. Mediterranean Braised Chickpea Rice Bowls
These Mediterranean Braised Chickpea Rice Bowls are packed with vibrant cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy hummus sauce.
Easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 455
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 79g
2. Tea Infused Vegan Chana Masala
Here’s another delicious Indian dish — because let’s be honest, you can never have too much Indian food!
At first glance, tea-infused vegan chana masala might sound like a wild experiment, but don’t scroll past just yet — it’s absolutely incredible.
This dish is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The secret? Milk oolong tea. It adds a subtle, delicate note that perfectly complements the bold spices.
Plus, it’s satisfyingly hearty, loaded with both protein and fiber to keep you full and energized.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 429
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 21g
- Carbs: 74g
3. Roasted Chickpea Quinoa Taco Bowls
Per Serving:
- Calories: 542
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 21g
- Carbs: 74g
4. Avocado Chickpea BLT Sandwich
Elevate your classic vegan BLT with this Avocado Chickpea twist!
This mouthwatering sandwich features a creamy, seasoned avocado and chickpea mash, layered with smoky tempeh bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes.
It’s a quick, easy lunch that comes together in no time!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 376
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 49g
5. Caprese Chickpea Salad
This vibrant Caprese Chickpea Salad is loaded with fresh ingredients like creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and aromatic herbs.
It’s a flavorful, protein-rich vegetarian option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 337
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 36g
6. Vegan Buffalo Chickpea Queasadillas
These Vegan Buffalo Chickpea Quesadillas are a game-changer! Packed with spicy buffalo-flavored chickpeas and a creamy Mexican-style cheese sauce, they’re the perfect plant-based comfort food.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 583
- Fats: 29g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 67g
7. Vegan Wraps With Curried Chickpeas
Wraps are perfect for busy days—just grab one and go, no utensils needed.
These wraps are packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of turmeric, coriander, garam masala, and ginger paste, giving the curried chickpeas a rich, authentic taste.
They may taste like they’ve been slow-cooked for hours, but you’ll only need 30 minutes to whip them up.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 241.1
- Fats: 22g
- Protein: 30.7g
- Carbs: 183.5g
8. Slow Cooker Potato & Chickpea Tikka Masala
Potato and Chickpea Tikka Masala is a hearty, plant-based dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Tender potatoes, chickpeas, green peas, and bell peppers simmer in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Blended cashews add a smooth, creamy texture to the dish.
This vegan tikka masala is a simple, wholesome meal you’ll find yourself craving time and time again.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 418
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 63g
9. Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps
These Mediterranean chickpea wraps are a quick and simple take on classic falafel wraps, perfect for an easy meal prep option!
If you’re aiming to incorporate more Mediterranean-inspired dishes into your diet and cut back on animal products, this flavorful vegan chickpea recipe is both satisfying and well worth trying!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 485
- Fats: 19g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbs: 66g
10. Garlicky Sesame Chickpeas With Coconut
Garlicky Sesame Chickpeas with Coconut is a vibrant fusion dish, blending bold flavors in a single pan.
Served alongside steamed rice, it transforms into a satisfying and comforting meal.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 370
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 51g
11. Toasted Chickpea Sea Salad Sandwiches
Are you a fan of creamy sandwiches? Then these are sure to delight you.
They’re rich, tangy, sweet, and savory, with a burst of umami from dried seaweed and miso paste — a true flavor sensation.
Plus, they feature fresh, fermented pickles packed with live active cultures, making them a tasty way to support your gut health.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 395
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 67g
12. Chickpea Tomato Salad With Creamy Yogurt Dressing
This Chickpea and Tomato Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing is a quick, vibrant, and healthy vegetarian dish.
It’s loaded with roasted chickpeas, crisp cucumber, red onion, zesty pepperoncini, ripe tomatoes, and fiery serrano peppers.
Finished with a smooth dill yogurt dressing, this flavorful salad works perfectly as a side dish, main course, or a crowd-pleasing potluck option.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 241
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 30g
13. Greek Vegan Chickpea Salad With Quinoa & Tahini Sauce
This vibrant Greek vegan chickpea salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
Loaded with protein from chickpeas and quinoa, it also bursts with vitamins from fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful dressing.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 343
- Fats: 11g
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 45g
14. Instant Pot Moroccan Chickpea Stew
The simplest, creamiest Dump and Start Instant Pot Chickpea Stew comes together with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Perfect for cozy comfort food, speedy weeknight dinners, or laid-back lunches, this delightful Moroccan Harira is always within reach.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 191
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 34g
15. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
This roasted red pepper hummus is a flavorful and nutritious dip, rich in smoky taste and loaded with protein and essential nutrients.
Ideal for snacking, spreading on sandwiches, or enhancing your favorite dishes, it’s a tasty way to savor hummus.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 165
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 21g
16. Protein Chickpea Cookie Dough
Protein-Packed Chickpea Cookie Dough! This no-bake, egg-free cookie dough is blended with chickpeas and protein powder for a nutritious twist.
It’s low in sugar, free from refined sugars and dairy, making it a perfect healthy snack for any time of the day.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 215
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 26g
