Taco-Spiced Chickpea and Rice Skillet Recipe
A flavorful and easy Taco-Spiced Chickpea and Rice Skillet that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This hearty dish combines protein-rich chickpeas, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables all cooked together with bold taco seasoning, making it a delicious vegetarian meal packed with Mexican-inspired flavors.
- Author: Lila
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped (approximately 150g / 1 cup)
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped (approximately 150g / 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 6g / 2 teaspoons)
Main Components
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained (approximately 425g)
- 1 cup cooked rice (approximately 185g)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (approximately 425g)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (approximately 240ml)
Seasonings and Optional Toppings
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream (or plant-based alternative), avocado, cilantro
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Add Main Ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas, cooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir the mixture occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and promote even heating.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot, topped with your favorite optional toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or its plant-based alternative, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can make your own taco seasoning by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- For a vegan version, skip the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños along with the vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: chickpea skillet, taco chickpeas, vegan taco rice, easy vegetarian dinner, one pan meal, Mexican chickpea recipe