Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice for dinner! There’s something so comforting about its rich flavors and creamy texture. The combination of tomatoes, chickpeas, and rice creates a heartwarming dish that's both nutritious and filling. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. I always find myself going back for seconds because it’s just that delicious! Let me share the secrets behind this creamy delight with you.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:04:16.328Z

I remember the first time I made Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice. I was experimenting with pantry staples and wanted something quick yet satisfying. The result was astonishingly good, and I was delighted by how well the chickpeas and tomatoes mingled to create a rich sauce. Adding a touch of cream made it indulgently creamy without overpowering the other flavors.

One of my favorite tips is to let the rice absorb the sauce for a few minutes after cooking. This step enhances the dish's overall flavor and texture. Trust me, you’ll want every grain to be deliciously coated!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Nutritious chickpeas packed with protein
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner

      

Ingredient Insights

The heart of this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice lies in its key ingredients. Chickpeas not only contribute a nutty flavor but also provide a hearty dose of protein and fiber, balancing the creamy richness of the dish. Opt for canned chickpeas for convenience, but if you prefer dried, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the pan. This simple choice can enhance the texture and overall taste, giving you a fresher flavor profile.

Tomatoes are essential for achieving the right level of acidity and sweetness in the dish. If using fresh tomatoes, select ripe ones for the best flavor. You might want to peel them for a smoother sauce. Canned tomatoes can save time, but ensure you're using a good quality brand. Always check for added sugars or preservatives that can alter the taste of your final dish.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the rice, it's crucial to maintain the correct water-to-rice ratio. Using too much water can result in mushy grains, while too little may leave you with undercooked rice. After simmering for 18 minutes, allow the rice to rest covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps the grains to steam, ensuring a fluffy texture that complements the creamy sauce well.

Sautéing the garlic and onion in olive oil until they're golden and fragrant is key to developing layers of flavor. Keep an eye on the heat; too high, and they risk burning, leading to bitterness. Ideally, you want them soft and translucent before adding the tomatoes and chickpeas for the best flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup rice
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to boil. Add 1 cup of rice, reduce to low heat, cover, and let simmer for 18 minutes.

Sauté Aromatics

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas to the sautéed aromatics. Cook for 5 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream.

Mix with Rice

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and then gently fold it into the tomato and chickpea mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Dish out your creamy tomato chickpea rice and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy this comforting dish as a main course or a delightful side!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can stir in some grated Parmesan cheese or use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the rice.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Tomato Chickpea Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to revive the creaminess, as it can thicken in storage. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

If you want to enjoy this dish later, it also freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this creamy dish is delicious on its own, consider serving it alongside a crisp salad or some warm crusty bread for a complete meal. The freshness of a simple arugula and lemon salad complements the richness perfectly. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt on top can add a tangy contrast to the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

For a twist on the original recipe, experiment with different spices. Adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika can elevate the dish with a warm, earthy flavor. Additionally, for a vegan version, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, which will still provide a creamy richness without the dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice will take longer to cook, about 45 minutes.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a vegan version.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.