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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Eating Ideas

A hearty and flavorful stew packed with tender chicken and protein-rich chickpeas, perfect for a cozy meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-31T20:22:28.253Z

This Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion. With spices that warm your soul and ingredients that nourish your body, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with a perfect balance of protein and spices
Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!

      

What Makes This Stew Special

This Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is not just another meal; it's a culinary experience that brings together the warmth of spices and the comfort of home-cooked flavors. The combination of tender chicken and protein-rich chickpeas creates a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. With each spoonful, you'll enjoy a medley of flavors that dance on your palate, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

The use of spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick to the dish, elevating it beyond ordinary stews. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. This stew is a great way to introduce more spices into your diet, which can boost your immune system and overall well-being.

Perfect for Any Season

Whether it's a chilly winter evening or a cozy fall night, this stew is perfect for all seasons. Its hearty nature warms you up from the inside out, making it an ideal comfort food. The versatility of this dish means you can enjoy it year-round, adapting the ingredients to what you have on hand or prefer.

Additionally, the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. With minimal active cooking time, you can have a delicious, nutritious meal on the table in under an hour. Make it a part of your regular meal rotation, and you'll find yourself looking forward to this satisfying dish time and again.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

This Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew is not only delicious fresh but also perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy it multiple times throughout the week. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and nutritious meal that feels like a warm hug.

Moreover, the flavors deepen and improve as the stew sits, making leftovers even tastier than the first day. This makes it an excellent choice for batch cooking on weekends. Prepare a large pot, portion it out, and you'll have wholesome meals ready to go, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

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

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute before adding the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Simmer

Add the browned chicken back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Let the stew simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your spicy chicken chickpea stew!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spicy Chicken Chickpea Stew, consider serving it with a side of warm crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, while rice adds an extra layer of heartiness to the meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, topping your stew with some toasted nuts or seeds can provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and chickpeas. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lime can also enhance the flavors, bringing a refreshing element that balances the spices beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this stew an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more legumes into their diet. They're also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Combined with the lean protein from chicken, this dish offers a well-rounded nutritional profile that supports a healthy lifestyle.

The spices used in this stew also come with their own health benefits. For example, cumin is known for its antioxidant properties, while cayenne pepper can boost metabolism and improve circulation. By enjoying this stew, you not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body with wholesome ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned chicken. Just add it towards the end to heat through.

→ How can I make this stew vegetarian?

Replace chicken with additional chickpeas or your favorite vegetables, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad.