One-Pot Spiced Chickpea and Tomato Rice Pilaf

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-07 · Updated 2026-05-07

A fragrant and colorful rice pilaf cooked with spiced chickpeas and tangy tomatoes, all made in one pot for easy cleanup. This Mediterranean-inspired rice and grain recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 35 minutes, pairs basmati rice, canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed canned chickpeas
• 1 can (14.5 oz), undrained diced tomatoes
• 1 medium, finely chopped yellow onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until spices bloom.
3. Step 3: Add 1 1/2 cups basmati rice and 1 can (15 oz) drained chickpeas, stirring to coat the rice with spices and oil.
4. Step 4: Pour in 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice and 3 cups vegetable broth; season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover pot tightly, and simmer for 18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving.