Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 large carrots, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale

Highlighted under: Balanced Recipes

I love coming home to the warm aromas of a delicious stew, and this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is one of my favorites! It’s so easy to throw together in the morning and let the slow cooker do its magic. The combination of lemon and spices gives it a refreshing twist that brightens up the flavors while still being hearty. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing and satisfying, yet simple to prepare.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:05:35.029Z

When I was experimenting with new healthy recipes, I realized how versatile chickpeas can be. They soak up flavors beautifully, and combined with the zesty touch of lemon, this stew turned out to be a real triumph in my kitchen. The ingredients meld together over hours, creating a rich and delightful taste without me having to fuss over it.

One of my best tips is to add the leafy greens just before serving. This keeps them vibrant and ensures they maintain their nutrients. I always go for spinach or kale, as they provide an additional layer of flavor and texture that complements the chickpeas perfectly. You won’t believe how fresh this stew tastes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that lift your spirits
Hearty and filling, yet light on the stomach
Packed with nutrients and plant-based protein

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this stew, providing not just protein but also fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Their creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the other vegetables, creating a heartwarming base for the dish. Ensure you rinse the chickpeas well to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid, which can cloud the flavors of your stew.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, chickpeas fit perfectly into that category while also offering a significant nutritional boost. For those with specific dietary restrictions, consider using cooked, dry chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender before serving the stew.

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

The bright acidity from the lemon juice not only elevates the dish but also balances the earthy tones of the chickpeas and vegetables. When zesting the lemon, be careful to only include the outer yellow layer, as the white pith can add bitterness. This nuanced flavor will develop beautifully during the slow cooking process, so don't skip it!

In terms of spices, the cumin and paprika bring warmth and depth to the stew. If you wish to experiment, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or swap in smoked paprika for a deeper, more savory profile. These spices will meld together during cooking, producing a stew with layers of flavor that invite you to savor each spoonful.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This chickpea stew is not only delicious but also makes for an excellent meal prep option. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, often tasting even better the next day!

To reheat, simply transfer the stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it looks too thick, and stir occasionally until warmed through. If you're short on time, the microwave works too; just heat in short intervals, stirring to ensure even warmth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious stew:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 large carrots, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach or kale

Ensure all ingredients are prep work done before using them in the crockpot.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the chopped onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, and rinsed chickpeas together. This forms the base of your stew.

Combine All Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lemon zest, lemon juice, cumin, and paprika to the bowl. Stir until well combined.

Season and Cook

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then pour everything into the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

Add the Greens

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt and integrate into the stew.

Serve

Check seasoning before serving. Ladle into bowls, and enjoy your healthy chickpea stew hot.

Enjoy your homemade stew with some crusty bread or over rice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

This stew can stand alone beautifully, but pairing it with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a light salad complements the meal wonderfully. I often like to serve it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for added creaminess and tang.

For a hint of freshness, consider garnishing your stew with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that rounds out the dish.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to customize this stew according to what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes or cauliflower can be great additions, providing extra nutrients and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time appropriately if you add larger vegetables to ensure everything is tender and cooked through.

If you prefer a more protein-rich option, incorporate diced chicken or turkey into the mix. Just be sure to add the meat at the beginning of the cooking time so it gets fully cooked and tender, and adjust the broth quantities slightly to accommodate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew seems a little bland when finished, it might need a bit more seasoning. Taste it just before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. A splash of additional lemon juice can also help brighten the flavors if it's tasting flat.

Should the stew turn out too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. It’s always easier to add liquid than to remove it, so aim for a pouring consistency that suits your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chickpeas?

Yes, just ensure they're thawed and cooked before adding them to the stew.

→ How long can this stew be stored?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This stew freezes nicely for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy it.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, over rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.