Healthy Dinner Creamy Coconut Chickpeas

Name: Healthy Dinner Creamy Coconut Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Collection

I absolutely love whipping up this Healthy Dinner Creamy Coconut Chickpeas dish for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a rich and creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully. What I really enjoy about this recipe is how easy it is to make, and it’s packed with healthy ingredients like chickpeas and fresh vegetables. I often serve it over rice or quinoa, making it a hearty and flavorful dinner that pleases everyone at the table.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:37:34.619Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of coconut and spices filled my kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner. The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture lies in simmering the chickpeas in coconut milk, allowing them to absorb all those vibrant flavors. Trust me, the combination is a game changer!

As I continued experimenting, I discovered that adding a squeeze of lime at the end brightens the flavors even more. This dish not only satisfies my craving for something comforting but also helps me stay healthy, which is a win-win in my book!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut sauce that envelops each chickpea
Nutritious and filling while being incredibly flavorful
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Insights

The chickpeas serve as the star of this dish, providing a hearty texture and plant-based protein. Canned chickpeas are convenient and ready to use, but if you prefer, you can use dried chickpeas. Just remember to soak and cook them ahead of time—this can take several hours. For a creamier sauce, selecting full-fat coconut milk is ideal since it lends a richer texture and flavor compared to lighter versions.

The use of fresh cilantro adds not just color but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the coconut sauce. If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley could be a great substitute. Additionally, the squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the entire dish, balancing the creaminess with a tangy kick.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion until it becomes translucent is crucial for building the dish's initial flavor base. If you can develop a golden edge on the onion, it will enhance the sweetness and depth of your coconut sauce significantly. Make sure to keep an eye on the heat during this step; medium heat allows the onions to soften without burning.

When adding the chickpeas and coconut milk, it's important to stir thoroughly to ensure the chickpeas are well-coated and incorporated into the sauce. A gentle simmer, as suggested, allows the chickpeas to absorb the spices without overcooking, which keeps them tender and intact. Look for a gradual bubbling, which indicates that the flavors are melding beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish over rice or quinoa not only adds substance but also absorbs the delicious sauce, enhancing each bite. To mix things up, consider using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, which gives a unique flavor and texture while maintaining the overall meal's lightness.

If you have leftover creamy coconut chickpeas, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. Adding a splash of coconut milk or broth during reheating can help restore its consistency.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Chickpeas

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Pour in the drained chickpeas and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the lime juice and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve warm over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or spinach before simmering. This not only enhances the nutrition but also adds vibrant color to the dish.

Storing and Freezing

This dish is great for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just ensure you store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy coconut chickpeas. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, and they will last for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up on the stovetop.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach or kale are excellent options that can be added toward the end of cooking time, allowing them to wilt perfectly without becoming mushy. For a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the spices.

You can also change up the protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring everything is heated through without overcooking any of the ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and chickpeas without any animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. You can freeze the coconut chickpeas for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.