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: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I absolutely love this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew! It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, allowing me to prepare a nourishing dinner with minimal effort. The bright lemon flavor pops through the creamy chickpeas and fresh vegetables, making this dish vibrant and satisfying. Plus, using the crockpot means I can set it and forget it, perfect for busy days. I always feel good serving this stew, knowing it's full of wholesome ingredients that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:25:34.767Z

When I first created this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew, I was amazed at how simple it was to bring together. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a robust flavor that lifts the chickpeas and veggies beautifully. Try adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor when serving!

What surprised me most was how effortless it is to make in the crockpot. Just dump everything in, set the timer, and let it work its magic. It’s a great way to ensure a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen, freeing up my time for other activities while still enjoying a hearty stew.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
Easy one-pot meal perfect for busy families

      

Flavorful Ingredients at Play

This Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew comes alive with vibrant flavors, thanks to its fresh ingredients. The zesty lemon juice not only brightens the stew but also helps to counterbalance the creaminess of the chickpeas, enhancing their natural taste. Each vegetable, from the sweet red bell pepper to the mildly bitter zucchini, adds depth and complexity. When cooked, these vegetables soften beautifully, releasing their juices and infusing the dish with an aromatic and hearty essence.

The use of cumin and smoked paprika isn’t just a flavor booster; it is integral to achieving a well-rounded stew. Cumin lends an earthy undertone, while smoked paprika provides a subtle smokiness that contrasts the brightness of the lemon. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes, but remember to adjust according to your spice preference.

Crockpot Cooking Tips

Using the crockpot makes this recipe almost foolproof, but there are a few tips to ensure the best results. For a thicker stew, consider mashing a portion of the chickpeas before adding them to the crockpot. This technique releases their starches, enriching the texture of the stew. Also, make sure to adequately chop the vegetables so that everything cooks evenly. A uniform size, especially with the carrots and zucchini, will help them soften at the same rate and avoid mushy inconsistencies.

If you’re pressed for time, or want to prep in advance, this stew can be assembled the night before. Simply chop the vegetables, combine everything in the crockpot insert, and refrigerate. In the morning, you can pop it straight into the slow cooker! Additionally, for meal prep, this stew holds up well in the fridge for up to three days and can be easily frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a zesty and comforting stew:

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
Juice of 2 lemons
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Mix and match your favorite veggies for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the vegetable and chickpea mixture into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, and add the cumin and smoked paprika. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Set the crockpot on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to meld the flavors.

Serve

Once cooked, serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your comforting and healthy stew!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when preparing the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing this stew with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile with its herbal notes. If you're looking to elevate it further, a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a dollop of Greek yogurt can introduce a creamy contrast that complements the zesty lemon. Serve it alongside crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a complete meal that satisfies without weighing you down.

For those looking to add protein or heartiness, consider including some cooked sausage or shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning, as the additional meat might require a touch more salt and spice to harmonize with the existing flavors.

Storage and Reheating

This Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is perfect for batch cooking! After cooling, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For long-term storage, this stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Check the seasoning again after reheating, as frozen meals can sometimes dull flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used if fresh ones are not available. Just add them directly to the crockpot.

→ How can I make this stew thicker?

To thicken the stew, you can mash some of the chickpeas before cooking or add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated easily on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is fully vegan and packed with nutrients.