Chicken Chickpea Stew: Hearty, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed
Imagine a bowl brimming with tender chicken, protein-rich chickpeas, and a medley of aromatic vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Chicken Chickpea Stew is a meal that combines heartiness, nutrition, and comfort in every spoonful. The natural richness of chicken pairs beautifully with the earthy texture of chickpeas, while herbs and spices add layers of flavor that are both comforting and satisfying.
This stew is perfect for chilly evenings, weekend dinners with family, or even meal prepping for a busy week. With a creamy yet light broth and robust flavors from garlic, onions, and spices, every bite feels indulgent without being heavy. Its versatility allows for simple tweaks, like adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spice levels, making it a stew that can suit any palate. Chicken Chickpea Stew is not just a dish—it’s a comforting experience that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in) | 1 lb (450 g) | 680 |
| Chickpeas (cooked or canned) | 1 1/2 cups | 270 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 44 |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 | 13 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups | 45 |
| Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) | 1 cup | 25 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | 2 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 2 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp | 2 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | 4 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and thyme. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Return Chicken and Add Chickpeas: Add seared chicken and chickpeas to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Stew: Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Vegetable Options: Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Spice Level: Increase paprika or add chili flakes for a spicier stew.
- Protein Variations: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk or plain yogurt for added creaminess.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients (except parsley and lemon juice) and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | Varies by broth and salt |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or warm flatbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for added brightness.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
Chicken Chickpea Stew: Hearty, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed
4
servings10
minutes35
minutes370
kcalIngredients
1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs, boneless or bone-in
1 ½ cups cooked or canned chickpeas
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear chicken on both sides until golden; remove and set aside.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and thyme; cook 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; stir well.
- Return chicken to the pot and add chickpeas.
- Simmer covered for 25–30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a thicker texture, lightly mash some chickpeas directly in the pot while simmering.
Use bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor.
A splash of coconut milk adds creaminess without overpowering the spices.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of cooked chickpeas?
Yes! Canned chickpeas work perfectly. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the stew to remove excess sodium and liquid.
2. What type of chicken is best for this stew?
Chicken thighs are ideal because they stay tender and flavorful during simmering. However, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option.
3. Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace chicken with extra chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. How can I thicken the stew?
You can mash a small portion of the chickpeas directly in the pot, or let the stew simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
5. How long does Chicken Chickpea Stew last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even better.
Conclusion
Chicken Chickpea Stew is a hearty, protein-packed meal that balances comfort and nutrition in every bite. The tender chicken, earthy chickpeas, and aromatic vegetables come together in a savory broth that warms both body and soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends, this stew is versatile, easy to make, and full of flavor. Every spoonful delivers satisfying texture, wholesome ingredients, and a taste that keeps you coming back for more.
