BBQ Chickpea Sloppy Joes (Printable)

Smoky chickpeas and sweet rolls deliver bold flavor in this satisfying sandwich favorite.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 1 1/2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Sweet Rolls

10 - 8 small brioche or sweet slider rolls, split

→ Optional Toppings

11 - 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
12 - 1/2 cup sliced red onions

# How to make it:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
02 - Add drained chickpeas to the skillet. Use a fork or potato masher to lightly crush about half of the chickpeas, leaving some whole for texture.
03 - Stir in barbecue sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Allow mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened, approximately 5 minutes.
04 - Place split sweet rolls cut-side down on a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and warm.
05 - Spoon warm chickpea mixture onto toasted bottoms of each roll. Top with shredded lettuce and sliced red onions if desired. Cap with roll tops and serve immediately.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses everyday pantry ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Ready in under thirty minutes start to finish
  • Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
  • Satisfies both vegetarians and meat eaters with bold BBQ flavor
02 -
  • High in plant protein with no cholesterol
  • Freezes beautifully for up to three months
  • Perfect for meal prepping ahead
03 -
  • Toast your sweet rolls for a sturdier bite that will not get as soggy
  • Be generous with sauce so every bite is juicy but not drippy
  • A sprinkle of chopped pickles or fresh herbs on top adds snap and freshness
  • For spice lovers, stir in chipotle powder or a minced jalapeno with your aromatics

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