Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach

Name: Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Recipes

I love quick and healthy meals, and this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach has become my go-to recipe when I'm short on time. It’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and requires minimal prep. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, I can whip up a wholesome dish in under 30 minutes. The combination of lemon, herbs, and protein-packed chickpeas makes it both nourishing and satisfying. I often serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own for a light meal.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:37:36.568Z

When I first tried making this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet, I was amazed by how quickly everything came together. I simply sautéed the chickpeas with fresh spinach and a medley of herbs, and the flavors developed beautifully. I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant taste; it really brightens the dish and makes the flavors pop.

Experimenting with different herbs is another delightful aspect of this recipe. Sometimes I'll add a sprinkle of dill or even fresh basil based on the season. It keeps the dish exciting, and I always look forward to the next time I can enjoy this vibrant meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor complemented by herbs
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients

Elevate Your Chickpea Dish

This Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet is more than just a quick meal; it's an opportunity to explore flavors and textures. The chickpeas provide a firm texture and hearty protein base, while the sautéed garlic infuses a wonderful aroma that enhances the overall dish. The key is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant, avoiding browning, which can yield a bitter flavor. This helps retain the dish's bright, fresh essence.

To elevate the flavor profile and nutritional value, consider adding a handful of cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the chickpeas. Their sweetness complements the tartness of lemon beautifully, adding a juicy burst to the dish. If you prefer a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce heat and depth without overwhelming the balance.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. When reheating, a quick warming in the skillet over medium heat retains its texture and flavor, helping the spinach stay vibrant rather than limp. A splash of water can also help steam it up if it seems dry.

For serving, I often recommend pairing this dish with a grain like quinoa or brown rice to absorb the lemony goodness. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can serve it in lettuce wraps, allowing the herbs and lemon to shine through while keeping it fresh and low-carb. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top further enhances the dish's richness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Main Ingredients

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas

Stir in the drained chickpeas and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to brown slightly.

Incorporate Spinach and Herbs

Add the fresh spinach, oregano, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve warm. This dish is delightful on its own or served over grains like quinoa or rice.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. You can also customize this dish by incorporating seasonal vegetables!

Ingredient Variations

While the recipe calls for canned chickpeas for convenience, you can use dried chickpeas for a more authentic texture. Just soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the skillet. This minor adjustment adds a nutty flavor and firmer texture that enhances the overall experience.

If spinach isn't available, other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard work well too. Just remember that kale takes slightly longer to wilt compared to spinach, so allow an additional minute or two in the cooking process.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that the chickpeas aren’t browning as you’d expect, it might be due to overcrowding the skillet. Ensure there's enough space in the pan to promote even cooking, or consider sautéing them in batches. This allows for better caramelization, which adds depth to the flavors.

A common issue with sautéed spinach is overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, keep a close watch during the wilting process; you want the spinach to reduce in size significantly while still retaining a vibrant green color and a slight crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

If you're not a fan of chickpeas, white beans or lentils would work well too.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it doesn't contain any wheat products.

→ Can I meal prep this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This skillet keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.