Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, sliced; 1 medium bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped

Highlighted under: Balanced Cooking

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Chickpea Stew on busy days when I need a nourishing meal ready without much fuss. It's packed with protein and nutrients, thanks to the chickpeas and a rainbow of veggies. With just a little prep work, I can set my slow cooker and let it work its magic. The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, quinoa, or even crusty bread for a complete meal!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:05:34.521Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easily everything came together in my crockpot. I simply chopped the vegetables, added the chickpeas, and poured in canned tomatoes and spices. It took only 15 minutes of prep work, and then I went about my day while it slow-cooked to perfection. The aroma filled my kitchen and made my mouth water!

The best tip I have is to serve it with a splash of lemon juice right before eating. It brightens the stew with a refreshing zing that complements the rich tomato base and spices. Trust me; it makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
Rich, savory flavors that fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma
Convenient slow cooker method that saves you time and effort

Understanding the Flavors

The combination of spices in this stew brings everything to life. Cumin contributes a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the chickpeas while the smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Together, these spices create a complex flavor profile that forms the backbone of this dish. It's that depth of flavor that truly distinguishes this stew and makes it satisfying, even with its simplicity. Don't be afraid to experiment with the spice levels; if you love a bit more heat, adding a pinch of cayenne can really elevate it!

The fresh vegetables play a crucial role not just in terms of nutrition, but also in texture. The carrots, bell peppers, and onions soften and become sweet as they cook, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty chickpeas. Pay attention to the thickness of the stew. If it starts to look too dense, a splash more vegetable broth can help achieve a more soup-like consistency, which is often preferred when it's served over rice or alongside crusty bread.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this stew is its versatility. If chickpeas are not your thing or you’re looking to mix it up, other beans like kidney or black beans make excellent substitutes. These can provide a slightly different flavor and texture while keeping the dish nutritious. Additionally, you can swap out the greens; collard greens or even Swiss chard work wonderfully if spinach or kale isn’t available. Just be sure to add them in the last part of cooking so they retain some texture and nutrients.

You can also personalize the vegetable mix according to what you have on hand. Zucchini, celery, or even diced potatoes can all be excellent additions that will complement the dish. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly if you are using harder vegetables like potatoes, as they might need a bit longer to become tender. On busy days, precooked veggies can also save time; simply add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.

Ingredients

Gather these staple ingredients for a hearty stew:

For the Stew

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, sliced
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped

Be sure to adjust the seasonings according to your taste!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all the vegetables and set them aside. This includes the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chopped vegetables, spices, and vegetable broth.

Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Add Greens

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of lemon juice if desired.

Enjoy your hearty, healthy stew!

Pro Tips

You can customize this stew by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Consider serving it with crusty bread or over grains for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

This stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it ideal for meal prep. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain its flavor and freshness. For longer storage, it can also be frozen for up to three months. To defrost, simply transfer from the freezer to the fridge the night before or use the microwave in a pinch. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up as needed.

When reheating from frozen, you can warm it in a pot over low-medium heat after thawing. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and consider adding a bit more broth if you find it has thickened. If you don't have time to thaw it beforehand, you can also reheat straight from the freezer; just be prepared to cook it longer and adjust your seasonings afterward as needed since the freezing process can mute flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this stew with your favorite grains for a filling meal. Quinoa is a great option that complements the flavors of the dish and adds extra protein. If you prefer rice, go for brown rice for an added nutritional boost. Alternatively, serving it alongside a crusty whole grain bread makes for a comforting combo, perfect for soaking up all the delicious stew.

For a burst of freshness, consider topping each serving with a dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This can brighten the rich flavors and add a lovely contrast. If you're looking for additional toppings, crumbled feta or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess that enhances the overall experience, while also introducing an additional flavor dimension.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of crushed ones?

Absolutely! Diced or whole canned tomatoes can work; just mash them a bit as they cook.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, it’s completely vegan! All ingredients are plant-based.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.