Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew for its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. It’s one of those recipes where you can toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker do all the work. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible! With fresh lemon juice and a mix of spices, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:57:38.029Z

When I first made this Lemon Chickpea Stew, I was on the lookout for something healthy yet flavorful. I discovered that simmering chickpeas with fresh vegetables and lemon juice creates a lightness that is perfect for any season. The acidity of the lemon complements the chickpeas beautifully, enhancing their natural flavor and adding a refreshing note.

One unique aspect of this stew is that the longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together. I like to prepare it in the morning and let it simmer throughout the day. It’s a fantastic meal prep option and makes weeknight dinners feel special. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh herbs on top just before serving to elevate the dish further!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich lemon flavor that brightens the dish
Nutritious and filling, packed with protein
Convenient and time-saving with a slow cooker

      

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are not just the star protein of this dish; they also contribute a lovely creamy texture when cooked. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the chickpeas to remove excess sodium and canning liquid, which can alter the stew's flavor. If you're using dried chickpeas, you'll need to soak and cook them ahead of time, but I recommend the canned version for convenience. The protein from chickpeas makes this stew a hearty meal option, perfect for filling you up without weighing you down.

The freshness of the vegetables significantly influences the stew's flavor profile. Opt for seasonal produce when possible; fresh zucchini and bell peppers will add a sweetness and vibrancy. If you want to introduce different textures, try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes in place of the zucchini. Also, consider using a mix of bell peppers in various colors to enhance both the nutritional value and visual appeal of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

When preparing this stew, it's essential to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. Sautéing not only releases their wonderful aromas but also enhances their sweetness, creating a deeper flavor base for your stew. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent. Just be sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan when transferring into the crockpot to retain those flavors.

Adjusting the cook time based on your slow cooker’s heat settings is crucial. If you find that your vegetables tend to overcook, you can reduce the cooking time or add them later in the process. I suggest checking the vegetables at the lower end of the cooking time range. They should be fork-tender but not mushy, which can happen if cooked too long on high heat.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper.

Add to the Crockpot

Transfer the mixture into the crockpot, then add the vegetable broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook

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

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the stew before serving or add a dollop of yogurt.

Storage and Reheating

This stew stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to make it in advance, consider preparing a double batch. You can easily reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.

For longer-term storage, freeze the stew in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. This stew can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or cook from frozen in a pot on low heat, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving your Lemon Chickpea Stew with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini. This not only complements the zest of the lemon but also adds a creamy element that rounds out the dish. Pair it with some warm crusty bread or over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice to soak up that delightful broth.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings! Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can provide a fresh finish, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes introduces a welcomed heat. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can be a great addition to provide contrast in texture while enhancing the overall health factor of the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, but you need to soak and cook them first before adding them to the crockpot.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can customize the stew with your favorite veggies like spinach or potatoes.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this stew is completely vegan and gluten-free!