Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups diced tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes); 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meal Delights

I absolutely love whipping up Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice on busy evenings. This dish is not only nourishing but also bursting with flavors that satisfy both my cravings and my need for a quick meal. With the delightful combination of creamy coconut milk and hearty chickpeas, it's a complete meal that can be ready in no time. I often find myself enjoying it as a cozy dinner or even as leftovers for lunch. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your weeknight rotation!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:22:11.945Z

When I first made this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice, I knew I was onto something special. The way the spices meld with the creamy tomato sauce is simply irresistible. I found that using fresh tomatoes enhances the flavor, creating a vibrant and rich sauce that coats each grain of rice beautifully. Plus, the addition of chickpeas makes it hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.

As I perfected this recipe over the years, I learned the importance of seasoning throughout the cooking process. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, rather than waiting until the end. Each mouthful is a burst of creamy goodness, and I love that it comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture from coconut milk that balances the tangy tomatoes
Nutritious chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Creating the Perfect Base

When preparing Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice, the base of your dish is crucial. The aromatic blend of sautéed onions and garlic forms the foundation that enhances the overall flavor profile. Make sure to sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent, as this step removes any sharpness from the onion, allowing it to blend harmoniously with the garlic and spices. The transformation unfolds in just about 5 minutes over medium heat, resulting in a fragrant base that's essential for the dish's success.

Incorporating spices like cumin and smoked paprika during the sautéing process is vital. The heat from the pan releases the essential oils in the spices, creating a flavorful aroma and deeper taste. The goal here is to toast the spices for approximately one minute, which not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful warmth to the dish. This step can be easily overlooked, but it’s what elevates your Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice to a restaurant-quality level.

Cooking Techniques to Consider

It's important to note that the type of rice you use can impact the cooking process. Basmati rice is an excellent choice for this dish due to its long grains and aromatic flavor. When rinsing the rice, be sure to wash it until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This step helps the rice cook evenly and remain fluffy, preventing it from becoming sticky during cooking. A quick rinse takes about a minute but makes a world of difference in texture.

As the rice cooks, avoid lifting the lid too often, as it can disrupt the cooking steam. Once you’ve brought the mixture to a gentle boil, immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly. Letting it simmer undisturbed for about 20 minutes will allow the rice to absorb the liquid fully and reach the perfect tenderness. You'll know it's ready when the grains are fluffy and have absorbed the coconut milk's creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice garnished with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the dish. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice before serving, which brightens the overall taste and complements the richness of the coconut milk beautifully.

For a heartier version, feel free to bulk up with additional vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, or even kale can be added during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost. You can also substitute chickpeas with lentils or cooked quinoa for different textures and flavors, accommodating various dietary preferences while keeping the dish satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this satisfying dish.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups diced tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, we can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the cumin and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional minute. Then, add the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed basmati rice, chickpeas, and coconut milk to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve and Garnish

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can toss in some spinach just before serving or a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist.

Storage and Reheating

Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep. As the flavors continue to meld while stored, the dish often tastes even better the next day. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before storing to avoid condensation inside the container.

When reheating, add a splash of water or additional coconut milk to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. Remember, adding a little moisture will help maintain the creaminess of the dish.

Dietary Substitutions

For those avoiding coconut milk, a dairy-free alternative can be made using unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. However, these substitutions may alter the flavor and creaminess, so consider enriching them with a tablespoon of nut butter or nutritional yeast for extra depth of flavor and richness. Always adjust the seasoning to taste when experimenting with different liquids.

If you're looking to reduce carbohydrates, you can serve the dish over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice, maintaining the creamy sauce and flavors while cutting down on carbs. This variation not only changes the texture but also enhances the dish's nutritional profile.

Key Tips for Success

Be mindful of the balance between spices and seasonings. Start with less and gradually add more according to your taste preference, especially with salt. It's easier to adjust the flavor towards the end than to fix a dish that's over-salted. Taste frequently to ensure you’re achieving the right flavor balance throughout the cooking process.

Lastly, don’t rush the simmering stage. Allowing the dish to simmer for the full 20 minutes is crucial. Skipping this step may result in undercooked rice or insufficient flavor development. Keep the pot covered and avoid the temptation to check on it too frequently; the steam is key for perfect rice!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan as it does not contain any animal products.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you want a lighter option, you can use almond milk or vegetable broth, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but remember that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.