Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Collection

I love cozy meals that nourish both body and soul, and this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew is one of my favorites. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, needing only a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making it a wholesome meal option for any day of the week.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:44:49.127Z

When I first tried making this stew, I wanted something healthy yet comforting. The result was beyond my expectations! Each spoonful is bursting with flavors, primarily thanks to the tomatoes and spices. Also, the chickpeas add a delightful creaminess that I find incredibly satisfying.

Another tip I discovered is to let the stew rest for a few minutes after cooking. This short wait allows the flavors to deepen even further, making each bite even more delicious. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for a comforting meal.
Packed with plant-based protein and vitamins.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.

Understanding the Ingredients

Chickpeas are the star protein in this stew, providing a hearty texture and filling quality. They not only add protein but also contribute a nutty flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully. When using canned chickpeas, make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve the stew's overall taste. If you want to swap chickpeas for another legume, white beans or lentils would also work well and bring their unique flavors into the mix.

The foundation of this stew is built on the combination of diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Look for low-sodium vegetable broth if you are watching your sodium intake. The tomatoes not only add acidity which balances the richness of the chickpeas but also give the dish its comforting saucy texture. If you prefer a chunkier stew, try using crushed tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes in season for added flavor and freshness.

Cooking Techniques for Optimal Flavor

To maximize the flavor of your stew, sauté the onions and garlic in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This elevates their sweetness and mellows the sharpness, creating a more complex flavor profile. It’s an extra step, but one that I find enhances the finished dish significantly. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but consider that the taste may be slightly less rich.

While the recipe calls for a standard slow cooking time, every crockpot varies. If it’s your first time making this dish, check the stew after the initial cooking period. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy. If necessary, extend cooking time by half an hour on low or 15 minutes on high. This flexibility allows you to adapt based on your crockpot’s particular quirks, ensuring that your stew turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to add any other vegetables you like!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, combine chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, cumin, and paprika. Stir well to mix everything together.

Season and Cook

Add salt and pepper to taste, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, stir the stew and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy it hot!

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes! Also, this stew can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal during the week.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just combine everything in your crockpot the next day, and you’ll have a wholesome meal ready to go. The flavors continue to develop overnight, so it might even taste better the next day!

If you have leftovers, store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm gently on the stovetop until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew is wonderfully versatile and can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or pour it over a bed of fluffy cooked quinoa or brown rice—this adds an extra dose of fiber and makes it even more filling. You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta for added creaminess and tang.

For a pop of color and flavor, consider garnishing the stew with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil in addition to parsley. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings; sliced avocado, a dash of hot sauce, or even roasted seeds can add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dry chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them first before adding them to the stew.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the stew?

This stew is delicious on its own but pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a slice of crusty bread.