15-Minute Buffalo Chickpea Bowls (Print)

Buffalo chickpeas, crisp veggies, and grains combine for a bold, protein-rich bowl with creamy dressing.

# Ingredients:

→ Buffalo Chickpeas

01 - 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/3 cup buffalo hot sauce

→ Salad Base

09 - 4 cups cooked brown rice or cooked quinoa
10 - 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
11 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
12 - 1 large carrot, shredded
13 - 1 cup cucumber, sliced
14 - 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
15 - 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

→ Toppings and Dressing

16 - 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
17 - 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or vegan cheese alternative (optional)
18 - 1/2 cup ranch dressing or vegan ranch dressing

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chickpeas, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes until the chickpeas are heated through and lightly crisped.
02 - Add buffalo hot sauce to the skillet; continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes until chickpeas are fully coated and sauce thickens slightly. Remove skillet from heat.
03 - Distribute cooked rice or quinoa evenly among four meal prep containers. Layer each with romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded carrot, sliced cucumber, shredded red cabbage, and thinly sliced red onion.
04 - Spoon an equal portion of buffalo chickpeas onto the salad base of each container.
05 - Garnish each portion with sliced green onions and crumbled blue cheese or vegan alternative, if using.
06 - Serve immediately drizzled with ranch dressing or pack dressing separately for storage. Refrigerate up to 4 days and add dressing just before eating.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in only fifteen minutes so perfect for busy schedules
  • Loaded with plant-based protein from chickpeas
  • Colorful mix of crisp fresh vegetables adds crunch and nutrients
  • Completely customizable for different tastes or dietary needs
  • Equally tasty served warm or cold
02 -
  • Packed with fiber and protein for lasting energy
  • Perfect for make-ahead lunches as it stays fresh for days
  • Easy to adapt for vegan or gluten-free needs
03 -
  • To get the chickpeas extra crispy dry them really well before cooking and do not overcrowd the skillet
  • Always add the buffalo sauce last to avoid burning the spices
  • Save time by prepping all your veggies in advance and storing them in airtight jars in the fridge