Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl

Name: Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mixed greens; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup tahini; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love dishes that are packed with flavor and nutrition, and this Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl is no exception. Each bite offers a delightful combination of smoky, spiced flavors that elevate simple chickpeas into a main attraction. Whether I’m prepping for a week of lunches or creating a hearty dinner, this bowl has become a staple in my kitchen. It not only satisfies my taste buds but also fuels my body with wholesome ingredients. What's even better is how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:10:12.505Z

When I first tried this Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of smoky paprika with the creaminess of tahini creates an irresistible flavor fusion. I love to let the chickpeas marinate for a bit to really soak up all the spices, and it’s amazing how simple ingredients can result in such bold flavors.

During my experimentation, I found that roasting my chickpeas gives them a fantastic crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the bowl. I also love to toss in some fresh veggies for added color and nutrition. This bowl truly embodies healthy eating without sacrificing taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich smoky flavor with a hint of spice
High in protein and fiber from chickpeas
Versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies

      

The Essence of Smokiness

The key to achieving that robust smoky flavor in your Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl lies in the smoked paprika. This spice is different from regular paprika; it offers a deep, rich aroma that enhances the nuttiness of the chickpeas. If you find yourself without smoked paprika, consider using a combination of regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke for a similar effect or even some smoked salt to amp up the flavor profile.

When roasting the chickpeas, be sure to spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from steaming, which can result in soggy chickpeas. If your chickpeas aren’t crispy enough after 25 minutes, keep them in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and a satisfying crunch!

Customization and Serving Suggestions

This bowl is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. You can add roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers for some extra sweetness and color. Additionally, throw in some feta cheese or nuts for a delightful textural contrast. If you're preparing it for meal prep, consider omitting the avocado until serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

For presentation, arrange the mixed greens in a large bowl, creating a beautiful base for the ingredients. The colorful layers not only make it visually appealing but also enhance the eating experience, allowing for a varied taste with each bite. Drizzling tahini over the top creates a creamy texture that beautifully balances the smokiness of the chickpeas.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl.

For the Bowl

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mixed greens
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup tahini
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste and enjoy your bowl!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Season the Chickpeas

In a mixing bowl, toss the drained chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Roast the Chickpeas

Spread the seasoned chickpeas on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the mixed greens and top with the roasted chickpeas, sliced avocado, and drizzle tahini over everything.

Serve

Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!

Enjoy your Smoky Paprika Chickpea Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your bowl with any veggies or grains you have on hand, such as quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes. Adding a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the creaminess!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make this recipe in advance, store the roasted chickpeas separately from the greens and tahini. This prevents the chickpeas from soaking up moisture and losing their crispness. Place them in an airtight container and they should last in the fridge for up to four days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chickpeas in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crunch.

For a comprehensive meal prep approach, consider preparing extra chickpeas and different vegetable sides. You can roast a variety of vegetables to complement the dish, such as zucchini or carrots, which can last several days in the fridge. This way, you can swap out ingredients daily, keeping your meals fresh and exciting!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chickpeas don’t get crispy enough in the oven, it’s often due to moisture. Ensure they are well-drained and patted dry before seasoning. A good trick is to roast them after baking other moisture-heavy items, like the vegetables, to utilize the residual heat in your oven for better results.

Another common issue is the bitterness that can arise from tahini. If you find that flavor overwhelming, lighten it up with additional lemon juice or by mixing it with a little water to create a smoother, creamier dressing that offsets the robustness of the chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses chickpeas and tahini.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chickpeas may lose their crunch but will still be delicious!

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just soak and cook the chickpeas before seasoning them.

→ Is there a substitute for tahini?

You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute if you're looking for an alternative.