Calorie Chart / Vegetables / Chickpea
How Many Calories Are in Chickpea?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of chickpea
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 288 kcal | Proteins 16 g | Lipids 5.2 g | Carbohydrates 44 g |
| 14% | 21% | 8% | 16% |
Health benefits of chickpea
Chickpea - 100g
Calories 144 kcal
Proteins 8 g
Lipids 2.6 g
Carbohydrates 22 g
Chickpea is considered a moderate-calorie legume: it supplies enough energy to be satisfying without exploding your daily calories, which makes it useful in both weight-control and sports nutrition strategies. Its calories are backed by a balanced nutritional profile rich in plant proteins and soluble fibre that help prolong satiety and stabilise post-meal blood sugar.
Beyond its calories, chickpea delivers a remarkable quantity of folate (vitamin B9), iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. These micronutrients support red-blood-cell formation, nerve function, and muscle contraction. The presence of resistant starch and oligosaccharides may also act as prebiotics, supporting a healthy gut microbiota; this benefit is still considered "supposed" by some researchers, but evidence is growing.
Because the legume provides complex carbohydrates, it has a low to moderate glycaemic index; athletes appreciate this slow fuel, while people monitoring their calories value the steady energy release. Traditionally cultivated in the Fertile Crescent, chickpea travelled through the Mediterranean, where it became the base of hummus and falafel. Its pleasant nutty taste allows you to reduce added fats and thus total calories in many meat-free dishes.
In short, chickpea offers moderate calories together with vitamins, minerals, and fibre—a combination that explains why dietitians often recommend it for heart health and sustainable weight management.
Tips for incorporating chickpea into a balanced diet
To keep an eye on calories while maximising flavour, rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly and combine them with raw spinach, diced tomato, and a squeeze of lemon for a quick salad. This dish stays light in calories yet delivers iron, vitamin C, and extra fibre.
If you need more protein after training, turn chickpeas into a curry and serve it alongside grilled chicken breast. The pulse soaks up spices and thickens the sauce, allowing you to cut down on cream and therefore calories. A spoonful of yogurt on top cools the palate and adds gut-friendly bacteria.
For a vegan lunchbox, pair roasted chickpeas with fluffy quinoa and steamed carrot. The mix forms a complete amino acid profile while keeping calories under control and offering slow-release energy for the afternoon.
Remember that dry chickpeas roughly triple in weight once cooked; measure portions before soaking to avoid hidden calories. Season generously with herbs and spices rather than extra vegetable oil. You will enhance taste without unnecessarily increasing calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in chickpea?
- Chickpea provides about 144 kcal per 100 g.
- Are chickpeas good for weight loss even though they contain calories?
- Yes. Their fibre and protein increase fullness, helping you eat fewer overall calories during the day.
- Do canned chickpeas have the same calories as dried, cooked chickpeas?
- Very similar. Drained canned beans are already hydrated, so their calories per 100 g are close to cooked dried beans; added brine contributes only trace calories.
- How do chickpea calories compare to those of lentils?
- Chickpeas are slightly higher, but both pulses remain moderate in calories and nutrient-dense.
- Can I reduce the calories of hummus?
- Substitute part of the tahini with plain yogurt or extra puréed chickpeas; you will cut fat-derived calories without losing creaminess.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
