Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, diced; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Recipes

I love coming home to a warm, comforting meal, and this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is one of my favorites. It's rich in flavor, thanks to the fresh lemon juice and herbs, and it’s packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas. We often prepare this on busy days because it’s so easy to throw together in the morning. By dinner time, the aromas fill the house, and we can’t wait to dig in. This stew is not only delicious but also guilt-free, making it perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:01:34.466Z

When I first discovered this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew, I was amazed by how simple it was to prepare yet so flavorful! The key is using fresh ingredients, especially the lemon juice, which adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the dish. I love to serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to boost the flavor further.

During colder months, this stew has become a staple in my house. I often pair it with whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal that keeps everyone full. One trick I learned is to add a bit of spinach or kale in the last half hour of cooking to increase the nutritional value without altering the flavor much!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright lemon flavor complemented by hearty chickpeas
Perfectly balanced spices for a comforting taste
Easy to prepare and great for meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas in this stew play a crucial role in both texture and nutritional value. They are an excellent source of protein and fiber, which not only helps sustain your energy levels but also keeps you feeling fuller for longer. When cooked slowly in the crockpot, chickpeas become incredibly tender, absorbing the flavors from the broth and spices. If you're in a pinch, canned chickpeas work perfectly here, but you could also cook dry chickpeas beforehand for a more robust texture.

The combination of fresh vegetables, including onion, carrots, and celery, adds depth to the stew. Each vegetable contributes its unique essence: onions sweeten as they cook, carrots provide color and sweetness, while celery adds a subtle earthiness. Be sure to chop the vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut vegetables available at most grocery stores to streamline the prep process.

Cooking Techniques for Maximum Flavor

Layering flavors is key to creating a rich, comforting stew. Start by sautéing the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery separately before adding them to the crockpot. This quick step enhances the caramelization of the onions and brings out the natural sugars in the vegetables, deepening the overall flavor. If you prefer a more straightforward approach, adding them directly to the crockpot also works, though the depth of flavor may not be as pronounced.

Cooking low and slow is the magic of a crockpot stew. By setting it to low for 8 hours, you allow the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a stew that is aromatic and well-integrated. Alternatively, cooking on high for 4 hours is a good option for those pressed for time, but keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may differ slightly, potentially being a bit firmer.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the chickpeas, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Add Seasonings

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

Add Spinach

If using, stir in the spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasonings, then serve warm with bread or over rice.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stew with your favorite vegetables or add some cooked quinoa for an extra protein boost.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is an excellent dish for meal prep, as the flavors become even better after sitting for a day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you can do so on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the stew seems too thick after sitting, a splash of vegetable broth or water can help restore the desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in individual portions. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its best quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, transfer to the refrigerator the night before to thaw, then gently heat on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently.

Variety and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this stew by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes. These not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add a unique texture and flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving for a spicy kick. For a creamier consistency, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk or some yogurt when serving.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, pairing the stew with rice, quinoa, or gluten-free bread is perfect. Additionally, for a heartier meal, you can serve it over whole grains or pasta alternatives. The lemon flavor pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs, so don't hesitate to garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dry chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them first. Adjust the broth amount accordingly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve this stew with?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly!