Name: Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake: 6 Flavorful Steps to Comfort
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 can canned chickpeas; 1 can diced fire-roasted tomatoes; 1 can green chiles; 1 cup green enchilada sauce; 1 cup vegan yogurt; 1 packet taco seasoning; 3 stalks green onions; 1 cup shredded vegan Mexican cheese; 1/4 cup cilantro; 1 medium avocado; 1 bag tortilla chips; 2 wedges lime

Jump to Recipe

Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake is a delightful blend of bold Mexican flavors wrapped in comforting casserole goodness. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal that’s perfect for any gathering. With its combination of chickpeas and brown rice, it is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to indulge in a healthy and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that will surely please your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

This Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake is a weeknight hero for numerous reasons. It’s a vegetarian enchilada bake with chickpeas that offers an excellent source of protein and fiber, thanks to the chickpeas and brown rice. The dish is not only filling but also gluten-free, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a comforting meal in under an hour. The layers of flavor, from the spicy chickpea rice enchiladas to the creamy vegan yogurt, will leave your family asking for seconds. This baked chickpea and rice recipe is perfect for meal prep, providing a nutritious option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. For more meal prep ideas, check out this guide.

Ingredients for Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

Gather these items:

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 can canned chickpeas
1 can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
1 can green chiles
1 cup green enchilada sauce
1 cup vegan yogurt
1 packet taco seasoning
3 stalks green onions
1 cup shredded vegan Mexican cheese
1/4 cup cilantro
1 medium avocado
1 bag tortilla chips
2 wedges lime

How to Make Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
Step 2: Combine the cooked brown rice, chickpeas, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, green chiles, green enchilada sauce, vegan yogurt, taco seasoning, and chopped green onions in a mixing bowl. Mix until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish. Top it with shredded vegan cheese, then cover with foil.
Step 4: Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Broil for the last couple of minutes to achieve a crispy, golden-brown topping.
Step 6: Serve by spooning portions onto plates and garnish with avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla chips.

Pro Tips for the Best Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly cooked brown rice for a fluffier texture.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Adjust the spice level by adding more green chiles or including jalapeños.
This dish can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

There are multiple ways to enjoy this Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake. Pair it with a fresh salad or serve it alongside your favorite salsa for an extra kick. You can also enjoy it as a filling for taco shells or in burritos. The dish is versatile enough to be served at any meal, whether as a main dish or a side.

How to Store and Reheat Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

To store leftovers, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes it a fantastic chickpea enchilada bake meal prep option that you can enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake

What is a chickpea rice enchilada bake?

A chickpea rice enchilada bake is a delicious casserole that combines chickpeas and brown rice with enchilada sauce, topped with vegan cheese and baked until bubbly. It’s a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Can I make chickpea rice enchilada bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chickpea rice enchilada bake ahead of time. Just assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an easy option for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chickpea rice enchilada bake?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients. Also, make sure to cover the dish while baking to prevent the top from burning before the center is cooked through.

Variations of Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake You Can Try

There are plenty of variations you can experiment with in this vegetarian enchilada bake with chickpeas. Consider swapping brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to change the texture. You can also add black beans for extra protein or switch to a different type of enchilada sauce for a unique twist. For a gluten-free option, always check the labels on your sauces and tortillas.

Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake: 6 Flavorful Steps to Comfort - Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake - main visual representation

Incredible homemade Chickpea Rice Enchilada Bake ready in minutes