Buffalo Chickpea Power Bowl (Print)

Vibrant, protein-packed bowl with spicy buffalo chickpeas, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing—ready in just 15 minutes.

# Components:

→ Chickpeas

01 - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
04 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
05 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Buffalo Sauce

06 - 2 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot)
07 - 1 tbsp vegan or regular butter, melted

→ Bowl Base

08 - 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine, etc.)
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
11 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
12 - 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

→ Dressing & Toppings

13 - 2 tbsp vegan or regular ranch dressing
14 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
15 - 1 tbsp sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chickpeas, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
02 - Stir together hot sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Add to the chickpeas, stirring to coat. Cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat.
03 - While chickpeas are cooking, arrange mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and red onion in two serving bowls.
04 - Top each bowl with warm buffalo chickpeas.
05 - Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with herbs and seeds, if using.
06 - Serve immediately while chickpeas are still warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
  • Perfect balance of protein fiber and nutrients
  • Completely customizable to your taste preferences
  • Satisfies buffalo wing cravings in a healthier way
02 -
  • High in plant protein with about 13g per serving
  • Contains approximately 8g of fiber for digestive health
  • Perfectly balanced meal with protein healthy fats and complex carbs
  • Can be prepared ahead for meal prep with components stored separately
  • Naturally gluten free when using certified gluten free ingredients
03 -
  • Always thoroughly drain and pat dry your chickpeas before sautéing them Extra moisture prevents proper crisping and dilutes the spice coating I like to roll them between paper towels to ensure they're completely dry.
  • The order of operations matters Always season the chickpeas before adding the buffalo sauce This allows the spices to toast slightly in the oil releasing more flavor compounds before being potentially dampened by the sauce.
  • For meal prep enthusiasts invest in sectioned containers that keep wet and dry ingredients separate until serving time This simple solution extends the freshness of your prepared ingredients by several days and ensures perfect texture when you're ready to eat.