Quick Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas are a simple yet bold-flavored dish that’s ready in just five minutes. These warm, aromatic chickpeas are tossed with paprika, cumin, and turmeric, creating a savory bite with a subtle earthy sweetness. Perfect as a protein-packed snack, a topping for salads and grain bowls, or a flavorful side dish, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fast and fuss-free – Ready in just 5 minutes from start to finish.
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Nutrient-rich – Packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
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Versatile serving options – Enjoy as a snack, or add to salads, baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, or yogurt.
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Budget-friendly – Made with pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients.
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Customizable – Adjust spices to suit your taste, from mild to extra spicy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 teaspoons sweet paprika
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon ground turmeric
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¼ teaspoon salt
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⅛ teaspoon black pepper
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2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat.
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Add chickpeas to the skillet, then sprinkle with the spice mixture.
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Toss gently until chickpeas are evenly coated and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
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Serve immediately as a snack or topping.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 3 (about 1½ cups total)
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Prep time: 2 minutes
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Cook time: 3 minutes
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Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Extra heat: Add red pepper flakes, Aleppo pepper, or cayenne to the spice mix.
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Lemon zest boost: Grate in a little lemon zest before serving for freshness.
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Roasted version: Bake seasoned chickpeas at 400°F for 20–25 minutes for extra crunch.
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Smoky twist: Swap sweet paprika for smoked paprika.
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Creamy style: Add a splash of coconut milk after cooking for a saucy variation.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store cooled chickpeas in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen or thaw before using.
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Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them slightly crisp.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, cook them first until tender, then follow the recipe steps.
2. Do I need to peel the chickpeas?
No, but removing the skins can make them slightly softer and improve seasoning absorption.
3. Can I roast these instead of sautéing?
Absolutely—toss with oil and spices, then roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
4. Are these chickpeas spicy?
Not by default; they’re mild, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or cayenne.
5. Can I make them oil-free?
Yes, skip the oil and toast spices in a dry skillet, then add chickpeas with a splash of water or broth.
6. How can I make them crispier?
Use less oil and roast them instead of pan-heating.
7. Are Moroccan spiced chickpeas good cold?
Yes, they make a great addition to cold salads or grain bowls.
8. What can I serve them with?
Pair with couscous, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a topping for hummus.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet so the chickpeas heat evenly.
10. Can I prepare the spice blend ahead?
Definitely—mix the spices and store in a jar for up to 6 months for quick future batches.
Conclusion
Quick Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas are the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. With minimal prep and a short cook time, you can have a warm, protein-rich dish that’s endlessly versatile. Whether enjoyed as a snack, tossed into a salad, or served alongside your favorite mains, these chickpeas deliver Moroccan-inspired flavor in every bite.
Print
Quick Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings (about 1½ cups)
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A quick, aromatic chickpea dish spiced with paprika, cumin, and turmeric. Ready in just 5 minutes, these Moroccan-inspired chickpeas are perfect as a snack, salad topping, or side dish.
Ingredients
2 tsp sweet paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground turmeric
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add chickpeas to the skillet and sprinkle with the spice mixture.
- Toss gently until chickpeas are evenly coated and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Serve immediately as a snack or topping.
Notes
- Add chili flakes, Aleppo pepper, or cayenne for extra heat.
- Mix in lemon zest before serving for a fresh twist.
- Roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes for a crispier texture.
- Use smoked paprika instead of sweet for a smoky flavor.
- Stir in coconut milk after cooking for a creamy variation.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg