Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love making Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice for a hearty meal that's both nutritious and delicious! This one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights and packs a punch of flavor with fresh spinach, tender chickpeas, and creamy coconut milk. I enjoy experimenting with different spices to elevate this simple recipe, making it a comforting favorite in my household. With the satisfying combination of rice and legumes, it’s a wholesome dish that leaves me feeling nourished and fulfilled every time.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:53:35.047Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice, I was astonished at how smoothly everything came together in just one pot. The blend of spinach and chickpeas creates not only a vibrant green dish but also a delightful texture that complements the creaminess of the coconut milk. I recommend using fresh spinach for the best flavor and color, but frozen can work in a pinch.

One of my favorite tips is to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing finish that lifts the dish. With a mix of spices, I’ve found that a pinch of cayenne really takes it to the next level, making it an instant hit with everyone.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that comforts and delights
Nutritious combination of chickpeas and spinach
Quick and easy meal perfect for busy days

Unlocking the Creamy Texture

The creamy texture of this dish mainly comes from the coconut milk, which not only adds richness but also complements the spices beautifully. When adding the coconut milk, make sure you stir it in gently to prevent clumping. This will keep the rice glossy and allow it to absorb flavors evenly. If you find the sauce too thick during cooking, feel free to add additional water gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Using full-fat coconut milk enhances the richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with light coconut milk or even a mix of coconut milk and vegetable broth. This not only cuts down on calories but still retains a good amount of flavor, allowing the spices and vegetables to shine.

Variations and Ingredient Swaps

While spinach and chickpeas are the stars of this recipe, you can easily experiment with other greens or legumes. Kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives to spinach, offering a different flavor profile and added nutrients. If you want to replace chickpeas, white beans or lentils would also work well, but make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly as these legumes have varying cooking durations.

For those sensitive to spices, the cumin and turmeric can be mellowed out or substituted with milder herbs such as dried oregano or thyme. The lemon juice at the end provides freshness, but if you're out of lemons, a splash of vinegar could serve as a suitable alternative.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is a great candidate for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few minutes or heat it on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

If you want to make it even further in advance, consider freezing individual portions. Freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. It should retain its creamy texture and delicious flavors nicely!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re all set to start cooking this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy spinach chickpea rice.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Spices

Add the rinsed basmati rice, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the rice with the spices for about 2 minutes.

Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and 1.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Add Spinach and Chickpeas

Fold in the chopped spinach and chickpeas, covering the pot again. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, add the lemon juice, and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with additional pepper if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful creamy spinach chickpea rice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of chili flakes. Storing leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge makes for an easy reheating option for lunch the next day.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to elevate your meal. Consider serving it alongside crispy roasted vegetables for a complete, nutritious dinner. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for added creaminess and tang. Pair it with a light salad for a fun, contrasting texture.

For an extra kick, drizzle with a homemade spicy sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before serving. This contrast of creamy rice and spicy toppings will elevate the experience and make each bite more exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice doesn't seem fully cooked after the 15 minutes, it might be due to the heat being too low. Make sure you're simmering it gently but consistently; too low of a heat can lead to uneven cooking. You can add a bit more water and cover it back up for a few more minutes, checking if the rice is tender.

A common pitfall is having a dry dish. This can happen if the rice absorbs too much liquid too quickly. Always keep an eye on the liquid levels; adding a bit extra broth or water during cooking can prevent this. Finally, if you find your rice is too mushy, it's typically a sign of overcooking—try reducing the simmer time in future attempts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of rice?

Certainly! Quinoa or couscous can be great alternatives that will still work well with the flavors.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, as it uses coconut milk and plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or any other favorite veggies you have on hand.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave or heat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.