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Chickpeas are one of those pantry staples that I almost always have on hand. If you don’t have a can or two lurking in a cabinet somewhere, add it to your grocery list immediately. Not only are they a great plant-based source of protein, but there’s also a nearly endless number of ways to turn them into a satisfying meal or snack any time of day.
Want to add more protein to your breakfast routine, but prefer to skip the eggs? Chickpeas have your back, and we especially love them packed into a breakfast sandwich. When it comes to lunch and dinner, chickpeas can do it all. Bulk up a green salad or soup; turn them into sandwiches; shape them into patties and nuggets; sauté them with veggies; stuff them into potatoes; and so much more. Don’t forget that chickpeas also make a fun snack, beyond a creamy batch of hummus. Not only can you roast them, but there are also so many ways to flavor roasted chickpeas.
Still wondering what to make with a can of chickpeas? We’ve got more than 30 easy chickpea recipes for lots of delicious inspiration.
Chickpea Recipes for Dinner
Consider this line up proof that there is no shortage of ways to turn chickpeas into a totally satisfying dinner.
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Cheesy Chickpea MeltsA stewy mixture of tomato-y chickpeas and greens are piled onto garlicky toast, then topped with cheese and broiled until browned and bubbly. These toasts are the incredibly easy, immensely satisfying, protein-packed vegetarian dinner you need.
Salads, Sandwiches, Soup, and Snacks with Chickpeas
Chickpeas are our secret weapon for bulking up salads and soups. But don’t forget they can be smashed and spooned into sandwiches, too.
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Scrambled Chickpea and Spinach PitasFor an egg-free breakfast sandwich that will power you through the morning, look to this pita pocket stuffed with a blend of spiced chickpeas and sautéed veggies. It’s prepared in advance, then stashed in the freezer, ready to be reheated in the oven while you buzz through your morning routine.
Go to Recipe 10 / 15
Baked Falafel If you normally only eat falafel at restaurants because you don't want to get involved in deep-frying, try this baked falafel recipe. It's a million times easier, and you can even count on it being easier to clean up after.
Go to Recipe 11 / 15
Chickpea of the Sea SandwichA tuna fish sandwich is a classic lunch choice, but for a variety of reasons some people are staying away from tuna these days. Here’s a vegetarian alternative for those who miss that tangy, creamy lunchtime treat. Ask any mermaid you happen to see, this version is a winner!
Go to Recipe 12 / 15
Mediterranean Chickpea and Chicken SoupThis is everything you want in a homemade weeknight soup. Bone-in chicken thighs make for a richly flavored broth, canned chickpeas keep the cooking time to a minimum, and tangy tomatoes and warm spices bring the whole pot together.
Go to Recipe 14 / 15
Crispy Roasted ChickpeasYes, you might consider chickpeas a health food, but once you try this recipe, you'll see that they can be a snack food too. Once you master this technique, we bet you'll be making popcorn a lot less frequently.
Go to Recipe 
