Yes, you can completely omit the chicken from this recipe and instead use a plant-based meat alternative or canned chickpeas. If using a meat alternative, use the same turmeric marinade and cooking method as the chicken. If using chickpeas, I suggest tossing them in turmeric, coriander, salt, pepper, and olive oil, and roasting at 425ºF for 20 to 30 minutes, until crispy. Scatter them over the rice dish once cooked.