Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s plant-based and packed with protein? These sticky sesame chickpeas are a must-try! Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy vegan recipe is ideal for busy weeknights and perfect for meal prep. With a savory-sweet sesame sauce that coats each chickpea in sticky goodness, it’s a dish the whole family will love—even the meat-eaters!
Pair these saucy chickpeas with rice, quinoa, noodles, or steamed broccoli for a complete, balanced meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Ready in 15 minutes
- ✅ Vegan & gluten-free
- ✅ Family-friendly
- ✅ High in plant protein
- ✅ Easy to meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cans chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 1.5 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- ⅓ cup low sodium tamari (or soy sauce if not GF)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp tapioca or arrowroot starch
- ¼ cup low sodium vegetable broth or water, divided
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
How to Make Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
- Prep chickpeas:
Drain and rinse chickpeas until the bubbles are gone. Set aside. - Sauté garlic:
Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant. - Make the thickener:
In a small bowl, whisk starch with 2 tbsp of broth (or water) until smooth. Set aside. - Whisk the sauce:
To the pan, add sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and the remaining broth. Stir well. - Thicken the sauce:
Re-whisk the starch mixture and add it to the pan. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sauce starts to bubble and thicken. - Add chickpeas:
Fold in the chickpeas and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 4–5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and cling to the chickpeas. - Rest & serve:
Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes to intensify flavor. Serve warm with rice, quinoa, noodles, or vegetables.
Serving Ideas
These sticky sesame chickpeas are versatile and pair well with:
- Steamed broccoli or bok choy
- Instant Pot jasmine rice or brown rice
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice
- Sautéed spinach or stir-fried veggies
- Sesame noodles or grain bowls
Top with scallions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of veggie broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Tips & Substitutions
- Tamari vs. Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option. Choose low-sodium to prevent saltiness.
- Sweetener Options: Maple syrup adds the best flavor, but honey, coconut sugar, or brown sugar also work.
- Starch Choices: Tapioca, arrowroot, or cornstarch all thicken the sauce beautifully.
- Add Protein: Try the same sauce with tofu, tempeh, or even salmon for variety.
More Chickpea Recipes You’ll Love
- Chickpea Scramble
- Orange Chickpeas
- General Tso’s Chickpeas
- Chickpea Tikka Masala
- Chickpea Tortilla Soup
- Chickpea Meatballs
Final Thoughts
These sticky sesame chickpeas are proof that a quick plant-based dinner doesn’t have to be boring. They’re saucy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve them over rice or in a Buddha bowl, they’re guaranteed to be a weeknight favorite.