Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew

Name: Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender chicken and protein-packed chickpeas with a spicy kick.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-31T19:06:30.043Z

This Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is a perfect blend of flavors and nutrition. It's not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and spicy flavors that warm you up
Nutritious chickpeas provide a hearty texture
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly or you're simply in need of some comfort food, this Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is the answer. The combination of tender chicken and hearty chickpeas creates a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it not just a meal, but an experience. With its perfect balance of spice and nourishment, this stew is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Comfort food doesn't have to mean unhealthy. This stew is packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Plus, the spices not only add depth to the flavor but also come with numerous health benefits. Cumin and paprika, for instance, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. So, you can enjoy this comforting dish guilt-free!

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best features of this Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch and portion it out for the week ahead. This not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also ensures you have a healthy meal ready to go when hunger strikes. Just reheat and enjoy, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner.

Additionally, the flavors of the stew only get better as it sits, allowing the spices to meld beautifully. If you’re planning to make this ahead of time, consider storing it in airtight containers. It can last in the fridge for up to four days, or you can freeze it for future meals. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Customization Tips

One of the great things about this stew is its versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add more veggies? Consider adding carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. You can even throw in some sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and added fiber.

For those who enjoy a milder flavor, you can reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you’re looking for more heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce at the end. The beauty of this dish is that it can be tailored to fit any palate.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute. Then, add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Simmer Stew

Return the chicken to the pot along with the chickpeas. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your hearty and spicy stew!

Nutritional Information

This Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Each serving is a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken and chickpeas, making it ideal for those looking to maintain muscle mass or fuel their active lifestyle. Chickpeas are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

In addition to protein and fiber, this stew provides a variety of vitamins and minerals. Ingredients like tomatoes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, while the spices add numerous health benefits. Incorporating this stew into your diet can contribute to overall well-being while satisfying your taste buds.

Storage and Reheating

To store your Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This stew can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a perfect meal prep option. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It will retain its flavor and texture for about three months in the freezer.

When it's time to enjoy your stew again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also microwave individual portions if you're short on time. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade meal that's just a few minutes away!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

→ Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ How can I make this stew vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with additional chickpeas or other vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

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