Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet

Name: Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I love preparing quick and nutritious meals that are both satisfying and full of flavor, like this Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet. The combination of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and vibrant chickpeas over fluffy rice creates an irresistible dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it's a one-pan wonder, which makes cleanup a breeze! This recipe has become a staple in my home, offering a delightful burst of freshness that can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:10:36.206Z

Making this Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet was an adventure in flavor! I wanted a dish that was not only quick to whip up but also packed with nutrients and deliciousness. The fragrant garlic and zesty lemon combine beautifully, making every bite a symphony of tastes.

I found that using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled really elevates the dish's brightness. Your taste buds will thank you, especially when paired with perfectly cooked chickpeas that add a lovely texture and protein boost. Don’t skip on the herbs; they truly tie everything together!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors from garlic and lemon elevate the dish
Packed with protein from chickpeas, making it hearty
Quick and easy one-pan meal, perfect for busy nights

Perfecting the Rice

The foundation of this Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet is perfectly cooked rice. Toasting the rice in olive oil before adding the vegetable broth is a crucial step. This technique not only enhances the rice's flavor but also helps it achieve a nice, fluffy texture. Keep an eye on the rice while it simmers; it should absorb the broth without becoming mushy. If you notice that the rice is overly dry before the 15 minutes are up, you can add a splash of water to help it finish cooking without burning.

Using long-grain white rice allows for a fluffy consistency, but if you prefer brown rice, you’ll need to adjust your cooking time and liquid quantity. Brown rice typically requires about 20-30 minutes to cook, so consider extending the simmering time to accommodate. Just be sure to check for doneness by tasting the grains; they should be tender but not sticky.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon

Garlic and lemon are the stars of this dish, providing depth and brightness. When sautéing garlic, aim for a golden color to ensure that it develops sweetness without burning, which would introduce bitterness to your skillet. The addition of garlic enhances the dish's savory notes while balancing the brightness brought by the lemon and chickpeas.

Fresh lemon juice and zest contribute a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and complements the creaminess of the chickpeas. If you find yourself without a fresh lemon, a tablespoon of bottled lemon juice can serve as a substitute, but be mindful of the intensity; it might be a bit more concentrated, so adjust to taste.

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add in seasonal vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers, during the sautéing step. This not only boosts the nutrient profile but also adds color and texture to your dish. If you're a fan of spice, consider tossing in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes when you add the chickpeas for an extra kick.

If you're looking to make this skillet ahead of time, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out. This dish also freezes nicely; portion it out in individual containers, and you’ll have an easy meal ready for busy nights.

Ingredients

For the Rice Skillet

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for about 2 minutes until it begins to turn slightly golden. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Sauté the Garlic and Chickpeas

In the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chickpeas, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and then combine it with the chickpea mixture in the skillet. Mix well to ensure the flavors meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also mix in seasonal vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top adds a creamy richness that beautifully complements the dish's bright flavors.

For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp marinated in lemon and garlic. The protein will add a satisfying element and pair well with the dish’s existing flavors. Additionally, crusty bread makes a great addition, perfect for mopping up every bit of the chickpea and rice mixture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you ever end up with undercooked rice in this dish, don't panic! You can add a little more broth or water, cover the skillet, and let it cook for a few more minutes. Just be vigilant to avoid letting it stick to the bottom of the pan. A good rule of thumb is to check the rice every couple of minutes until it reaches the perfect fluffy consistency.

On the other hand, if your chickpeas start to dry out while you sauté them, simply add a tiny splash of vegetable broth or water to keep them moist and flavorful. This will also help the garlic incorporate better into the dish, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout your skillet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires more cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Garlic Lemon Chickpea Rice Skillet is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat when needed. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish is great on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a more complete meal.