Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Juice of 2 lemons; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Collection

I love making healthy meals that are packed with flavor, and this Healthy Crockpot Lemon Chickpea Stew is one of my favorites. The bright citrus notes from the lemon really elevate the hearty ingredients like chickpeas and vegetables, creating a dish that feels comforting yet enlightened. Plus, the slow-cooking method ensures that every bite is infused with deliciousness. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it recipe for a busy day, and it's always a hit at the dinner table!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:25:35.552Z

When I first made this stew, I wasn't sure how the lemon would blend with the chickpeas and veggies. But as the stew simmered in the crockpot, the zesty aroma filled my kitchen, leaving me eager to taste it. The interplay of savory and citrus flavors is something I never expected, but it works beautifully!

My tip? Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for an authentic tang. This small change makes a world of difference and enhances the dish. Plus, leaving it in the crockpot allows the flavors to deepen, making each serving more delightful than the last!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor combined with hearty chickpeas
Effortless slow-cooking for a hassle-free meal
Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious boost

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stew, chickpeas, are not just protein-packed but also add a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the bright lemon flavors. Their nutty sweetness balances the savory elements, making them essential for a hearty dish. If you're short on time or fresh ingredients, canned chickpeas work brilliantly, but dry chickpeas can be used too. Just be sure to soak them overnight before cooking to ensure they become tender in the stew.

The vegetables in this stew provide essential nutrients and cacophony of textures. Onions and garlic are foundational; they form the aromatic base and develop a rich flavor when slow-cooked. Carrots add subtle sweetness while celery contributes a refreshing crunch. Feel free to swap these with whatever vegetables you have on hand—zucchini or bell peppers can be excellent alternatives.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When cooking in a crockpot, the key is to maintain the right temperature for the best flavor development. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while high for 3-4 hours is perfect for a quicker meal. Be mindful of the moisture—if you notice your stew looks too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth gradually. Conversely, if it's too watery, cook it uncovered for the last hour on high to allow for some evaporation.

Don’t skip the taste test before serving! Once the stew is done, tasting it allows you to adjust flavors to your liking. A little extra lemon juice can brighten it up, while a pinch of salt may highlight the dish’s flavors. Remember that fresh herbs, like parsley, not only enhance presentation but also their flavor, so don’t rush the garnishing—let that fresh pop finish your dish beautifully.

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Juice of 2 lemons
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the chickpeas, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Add the Liquid

Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Set your crockpot on low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Final Touches

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

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa to make it a heartier meal. If you want to take it up a notch, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy accent. The sour cream also complements the zestiness of the lemon remarkably well.

For a little crunch, consider adding a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide the perfect contrast to the warm, comforting stew. It keeps the meal light while complementing the rich flavors of the dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the fridge. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency. The stew also freezes well—just store it in airtight containers for up to three months.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider transforming them into a new dish! You can blend the leftover stew into a creamy soup or use it as a filling for wraps. Adding some leafy greens, or grains can create a quick and satisfying lunch for the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to throw in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini according to your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

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

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them prior to adding them to the crockpot.