A wholesome and savory bowl featuring tender chickpeas glazed in a sticky soy-ginger sauce, served with fluffy jasmine rice and creamy avocado. This protein-rich, plant-based meal is quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sticky Soy-Ginger Chickpea Rice Bowl offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, salty, umami, and a hint of heat, all layered over soft rice and creamy avocado. It’s vegan-friendly, packed with plant-based protein, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Ideal for lunch or a quick dinner, this recipe is versatile, nourishing, and endlessly customizable.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

sesame oil
canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
soy sauce
maple syrup
rice vinegar
fresh ginger, grated
garlic cloves, minced
chili flakes (optional)
jasmine or short-grain rice
water
ripe avocado
chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
sesame seeds (optional)

directions

Rinse the rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they begin to crisp.
Add soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the chickpeas.
Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls. Top with the sticky chickpeas and half of a sliced avocado.
Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

Substitute brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for jasmine rice.
Add steamed vegetables such as broccoli, edamame, or bok choy for extra nutrition.
Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Replace maple syrup with agave nectar or honey (if not vegan).
Spice it up with a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avocado is best added fresh, so consider storing it separately and slicing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas straight from the can?

Yes, just be sure to drain and rinse them well before cooking to remove excess sodium and liquid.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute with agave nectar, brown sugar, or honey if not following a vegan diet.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely. Brown rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa all work well with this dish.

How spicy is the recipe?

The dish is mildly spicy with chili flakes. You can omit them for a non-spicy version or increase the amount for more heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the rice and chickpeas in advance and store them in separate containers. Reheat and assemble just before eating.

What vegetables pair well with this bowl?

Steamed or sautéed greens, bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cucumbers make great additions.

How do I store leftover avocado?

Keep the pit in and store it tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to minimize browning.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Portion into containers and add fresh avocado just before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger as a substitute, though fresh ginger offers a brighter flavor.

Conclusion

The Sticky Soy-Ginger Chickpea Rice Bowl with Avocado is a flavorful, nourishing, and convenient meal ideal for busy weeknights or a satisfying plant-based lunch. With its sticky, savory chickpeas and creamy avocado over a bed of soft rice, it’s a well-balanced dish that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. Enjoy it fresh or prepare it in advance for an easy and delicious meal any day of the week.