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: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Juice and zest of 1 large lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew. It’s packed with vibrant flavors, and the ease of preparation is irresistible. With the zing of fresh lemon and hearty chickpeas, it delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Whether it's a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this stew comes together effortlessly in my crockpot, letting me savor its delightful aromas wafting through my home. It’s the perfect dish to warm my soul and nourish my body, and I can hardly wait to share it with you!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:49:34.023Z

When I first started experimenting with different stews in my crockpot, I was amazed at how easy it was to create flavorful dishes with minimal effort. One of my favorites became this lemon chickpea stew. The bright flavor from fresh lemon juice complements the mild nuttiness of the chickpeas perfectly, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

To enhance the flavors further, I recommend serving this stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, just before serving. This simple addition brightens up the dish and takes it to another level. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up any herbs you have on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Citrusy brightness that lifts the spirit
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup

Ingredients That Shine

The main ingredient in this stew, chickpeas, are not only a protein powerhouse but also absorb surrounding flavors beautifully. Their creamy texture enhances the stew's mouthfeel, making each spoonful satisfying. I recommend using low-sodium canned chickpeas to control salt levels and keep the dish health-conscious. If you prefer dried chickpeas, simply soak and cook them beforehand—this will lend an even deeper flavor as they have more time to absorb the broth characteristics.

Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery add both sweetness and crunch to the stew, presenting a balance of flavors. Opt for vibrant, firm vegetables to ensure optimal texture after cooking. The diced tomatoes bring acidity to the dish, which harmonizes with the lemon's brightness. Using San Marzano tomatoes can elevate the flavor even further, providing a rich base that serves as the perfect backdrop for this hearty stew.

Cooking Tips for Flavor Development

Layering flavors is crucial! As you sauté the onion and garlic before mixing with the other ingredients, it helps the base develop a richer depth. This step, although not required for a crockpot recipe, can truly enhance the overall flavor profile. If time allows, consider cooking them on medium heat until they are translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes. This small effort goes a long way in creating a comforting aroma and robust flavor base for your stew.

When cooking in the crockpot, the way you layer your ingredients can impact cooking efficiency. Placing denser vegetables like carrots and celery at the bottom allows them to cook more thoroughly while supporting lighter ingredients on top. This not only ensures even cooking but also minimizes the risk of burning or overcooking lighter components like chickpeas. I usually set my crockpot to low, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over about 6 hours.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this healthy stew:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your stew:

Prepare Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to your crockpot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours, or until vegetables are tender.

Serve

Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to your preference. This stew freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest doing so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This will help revive the stew’s freshness without overcooking the vegetables.

If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions. This stew freezes quite well due to its hearty ingredients. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stove. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy days when you crave a nutritious meal without the fuss.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this stew is an opportunity to get creative! I love garnishing it with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness, which complements the stew’s flavors beautifully. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta adds a rich creaminess that enhances the lemony notes and balances the spices wonderfully. Pair it with crusty bread or warm pita for a complete, satisfying meal.

For a bit of extra texture, consider adding toppings like roasted chickpeas or toasted nuts right before serving. This not only introduces a delightful crunch but also elevates the nutritional profile. If you want to spice things up, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can add a nice kick. This stew is versatile, allowing you to experiment based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in a regular pot?

Yes, simply bring the ingredients to a boil, then simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Yes, feel free to add protein like chicken or sausage if you prefer a meatier dish.