Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz); 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love preparing this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew on busy weeknights. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and fills you with goodness without requiring hours of my time in the kitchen. The chickpeas provide a great source of protein, while the vibrant tomato base melds beautifully with spices and vegetables. I often throw whatever I have on hand into the pot, and it always turns out deliciously satisfying!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:34.818Z

Making this stew has been a game-changer for my meal prep routine. After experimenting with various spices, I discovered that adding a touch of smoked paprika elevates the dish, giving it a subtle depth of flavor that I crave. On days when I don't feel like cooking, I can rely on this healthy yet hearty dish.

I've also played with adding different vegetables based on what's in my fridge. Spinach is a fantastic addition for more nutrients and color. I encourage you to get creative; this stew is adaptable and mirrors my love for cooking intuitively rather than perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients that promote health
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
Satisfying texture from chickpeas and vegetables

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this stew incredibly nutritious. Beyond protein, they add a creamy texture that helps thicken the broth as they cook. Opt for canned chickpeas for convenience, but if you prefer dried, soak them overnight and cook them before adding them to the crockpot. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from becoming too mushy in the final dish.

The diced tomatoes serve as the foundation of the stew, contributing natural sweetness and acidity. I recommend using high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are particularly renowned for their rich taste. The acidity balances the earthiness of the chickpeas and vegetables, creating a harmonious flavor profile. If fresh tomatoes are in season, consider using about 2 pounds, diced, for a fresher taste.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

When cooking in a crockpot, it's helpful to prep your ingredients in similar sizes. This ensures even cooking, so I chop the carrots and celery into even, bite-sized pieces, about 1/2 inch in size. Visual cues, such as tender vegetables and a thickened broth, indicate that your stew is ready. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the stew after cooking and stir it back in.

Seasoning is key in a dish like this, and it’s worth tasting the stew about an hour before it's finished cooking. This way, you can adjust seasoning and spices to match your preference. If you find the stew a bit thick for your taste, add an additional cup of broth or water during the last hour of cooking to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a hearty stew.

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to check your pantry for herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stew in the crockpot.

Prep the Ingredients

Chop the onions, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and set aside.

Combine Everything in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, chopped vegetables, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.

Season the Stew

Add salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the spices based on your preference.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 2.5 hours, until vegetables are tender.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your healthy and hearty stew as a main dish or with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a thicker stew, mash a few chickpeas with a fork before serving. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

This stew is great for meal prep! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you find it's thickened too much during refrigeration, just add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leave some space for expansion, and it can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting in your microwave for a quicker option.

Serving Suggestions

This savory stew is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with some complementary sides. Serve it with warm, crusty bread for dipping, or over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. A dollop of yogurt can also add a nice tangy contrast that works well with the spices.

For added freshness, consider topping your stew with a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It elevates the dish by brightening the flavors and providing a nice balance to the richness of the stew. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; just add them in during the last hour of cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to portion it out.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.