Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach, fresh

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection

I love coming home to a warm and inviting meal, and this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew never disappoints. The rich combination of spices and vegetables creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. As the chickpeas simmer, they soak up all the flavors from the other ingredients, resulting in a hearty stew that is both nutritious and filling. Plus, the convenience of preparing everything in a crockpot makes it my go-to recipe for easy meal planning.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:22:35.566Z

When I first discovered the joys of using a slow cooker, I was amazed by how effortlessly it transformed simple ingredients into something magical. This chickpea stew is one of my favorite recipes to showcase that magic. I love how easily you can adjust the spices to match your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish for everyone.

Another aspect I adore about this stew is the blend of texture and flavor. The velvety chickpeas paired with hearty vegetables and delightful spices provide a beautiful balance that delights the palate. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to use up any veggies in the fridge, making it a sustainable choice as well!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein-rich chickpeas that keep you full and satisfied
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings
Easy to make ahead and perfect for meal prep!

      

Maximizing Flavor with Spice

Spices are the heart of this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew, and the combination of cumin, paprika, and turmeric adds warmth and depth. Cumin brings a slightly citrusy, nutty flavor that complements the earthiness of the chickpeas. Paprika contributes a hint of smokiness, enhancing the overall complexity. Turmeric not only provides a vibrant yellow color but is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making this stew both colorful and nutritious.

If you desire a little extra heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix. Start with a quarter teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference. Remember, it’s always easier to add more spice than to tone it down, so taste as you go. Mixing the spices with the vegetables and chickpeas before slow-cooking allows their essential oils to meld and infuse the stew with flavor.

Texture and Consistency Matters

For the best texture in your stew, it's crucial to cut the carrots and potatoes into uniform sizes. Aim for pieces about half an inch thick; this ensures they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. Keep an eye on your vegetable sizes during prep; larger chunks will take longer to cook, while smaller pieces may break down too much during the slow-cooking process. Proper cutting technique elevates the overall mouthfeel of the dish.

When you stir in the fresh spinach, it'll wilt and turn a vibrant green in just about 10 minutes. This not only adds a pop of color but also retains some texture, enhancing the stew's appeal. For those looking to boost the nutritional value, you can incorporate other greens like kale orSwiss chard. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times slightly, as these greens can require a minute or two longer to fully wilt.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful stew:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, fresh

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all the vegetables and rinse the chickpeas. This step is essential for achieving the best flavor and consistent texture in your stew.

Combine Everything in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and spices. Stir well to combine.

Slow Cook

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

Add Spinach and Season

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your wholesome and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also spice it up with chili flakes for an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chickpea stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance—just let it cool completely before refrigerating. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, allowing the flavors to develop even further. If you prefer to freeze it, let the stew cool down and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. This stew can be frozen for up to three months, making it easy to have a nourishing meal ready at a moment's notice.

When reheating, it's best to do it gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of vegetable broth or water can help bring back the original consistency, especially if it has thickened during storage. A quick reheating in the microwave is also an option, but be sure to cover the container and stir halfway through to avoid hot spots.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty stew is filling enough to stand on its own, but it can also be paired with various sides to enhance your meal. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping, or over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up the robust flavors. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add a creamy tang that contrasts beautifully with the spices.

For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped herbs, like parsley or cilantro, right before serving. This simple addition will brighten the stew’s flavors. If you’re looking to spice it up further, a squeeze of lime juice can provide a zesty finish that brings all the flavors together harmoniously.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! You would need to soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand, as they take longer to become tender.

→ What can I serve with chickpea stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.