Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew on busy days. The ease of letting everything cook together while I handle other tasks is a game-changer. With the bright brightness of lemon complementing the robust flavors of chickpeas and vegetables, it's a comforting dish that keeps me feeling nourished. Plus, knowing it's packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor makes it a go-to meal in our household. I'm excited to share this recipe where simplicity meets deliciousness!

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:49:34.448Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew, I was surprised by how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The key is to let the stew simmer slowly in the crockpot, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully together. I'll often throw in extra veggies I have on hand and adjust the seasoning based on my mood, making it versatile and fun to experiment with.

One of my favorite things about this dish is how the acidity of the lemon balances the earthiness of the chickpeas. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving amplifies the brightness of the stew and makes it utterly refreshing. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that keeps me fueled and satisfied!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that lifts your spirits
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew lies in its ingredients, primarily chickpeas. Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas not only make the stew filling but also help balance blood sugar levels. They blend beautifully with the other vegetables, soaking up flavors as they cook slowly. Using canned chickpeas is convenient, but if you prefer dried beans, soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they soften just right during the slow cooking process.

Fresh vegetables are essential for adding both nutrition and texture to your stew. Carrots and zucchini introduce a slight sweetness, while celery provides a subtle crunch. When dicing the vegetables, try to keep the pieces uniformly sized—about half an inch—so they cook evenly. If you want to add some greens, consider tossing in a handful of spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for an extra nutrient boost without altering the dish's flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking this stew in a crockpot allows flavors to meld beautifully over time, but there are key details to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. When adding the lemon juice and zest, do it after sautéing the onions and garlic if you like a more pronounced citrus flavor. Heating the acidity slightly can help release its fragrant oils, enhancing the overall taste. Cooking on low for 4 to 6 hours is optimal for rich flavors; however, if you're short on time, the high setting works as well—just keep an eye on the vegetables to avoid overcooking.

While serving, remember that the stew thickens upon sitting. If it seems too dense after cooking, a splash of vegetable broth can help loosen it up. It’s also a great time to adjust seasonings; taste for brightness and heat, possibly adding more lemon juice or pepper as desired. For added creaminess, trying a swirl of coconut milk just before serving can elevate the dish further, appealing to those looking for a richer texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix these together for the perfect stew!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, add the chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, zucchini, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.

Add Liquids and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep! Once cooked, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, making it a great option for busy weeknights. I often make a double batch on the weekend, allowing my family to enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without hassle. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

If you're planning to store it for longer, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, allowing some room for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop until heated through. This ensures that the chickpeas and vegetables retain their texture without becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Lemon Chickpea Stew is incredibly versatile. For a heartier meal, serve it over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or even alongside warm, crusty bread. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a delicious creamy contrast to the zesty stew. If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick.

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables according to what’s in season or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash can add interesting flavors and textures. If you want to make it a bit heartier, adding some diced potatoes can create a comforting and filling dish that will keep you warm and satisfied on chilly days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, frozen vegetables are a great option and can be added directly to the pot. Just keep in mind they may cook slightly faster.

→ How can I make this stew thicker?

To thicken the stew, you can mash some of the chickpeas with a fork before serving or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, brown rice, or quinoa, making it a versatile meal option.