Butter beans, also referred to as lima beans, get their name from their smooth texture and subtle buttery flavor. They are a larger bean with a flatter appearance. While both chickpeas and butter beans could be considered to have a mild flavor, they differ slightly in both taste and texture. Lima beans have a buttery flavor and a slightly starchy texture. Chickpeas have a nutty, earthy flavor and a slightly grainy texture. Both have a mild taste that makes them perfect for incorporating into recipes.