Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew (Crock Pot)
Easy, healthy crock pot recipes? This Mediterranean Chicken & Chickpea Stew is a flavour bomb! Dump it in and forget it. Perfect for busy weeknights. Get the recipe!
Alright, love! Let's dive into this Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew recipe. Honestly, who doesn't love a good crock pot meal? I get asked all the time for healthy crock pot recipes !
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip to the mediterranean without leaving your kitchen? this stew is like sunshine in a bowl, bringing those vibrant flavors right to your table.
This is one of my absolute go-to healthy crock pot recipes , especially when i'm craving something warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor.
The main flavour? think tangy tomatoes, savory herbs, and a hint of olives – bellissimo!
Brief Overview
This dish hails from the sun-kissed coasts of greece and italy. picture rustic kitchens and family gatherings. it’s easy peasy to make.
Prep time? a mere 15 minutes. cooking time? 6- 8 hours on low or 3- 4 hours on high. this recipe yields 6 generous servings.
Main Benefits
Packed with protein and fiber, this stew is a nutritional powerhouse. it is one of my favourite spinach diet recipes !.
It's perfect for a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead. the best part? you can toss everything in and forget about it while you get on with your day.
It's great and easy. It is a great option for Healthy Filling Dinner Recipes . It's a dish that makes you feel good from the inside out!
Ready to make it?. Let's gather those ingredients, shall we?
Okay, let's dive into the heart of this Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew – the ingredients and equipment! This is where the magic truly begins, and honestly, it's all pretty straightforward.
Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew (Crock Pot) Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Getting Ready: Ingredients & Equipment
This recipe is designed to be simple. It brings fresh flavor to your table. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make these healthy crock pot recipes sing!
Main Ingredients for a Mediterranean Fiesta
Here's the lowdown on what goes into this glorious stew. We’ve got the essentials listed with both US and metric measurements, because who wants to be stuck googling conversions when you're in the zone?
Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs. look for thighs that are plump and have good color. avoid any that look pale or dry.
Trust me, fresher is always better. i usually get mine from the butcher, but pre-packaged works, too!
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Extra virgin is my go-to for that extra bit of flavor.
Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup). Yellow or white works great!
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Because everything's better with garlic, right?
Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can . The better the tomatoes, the better the stew.
Chickpeas & Cannellini Beans: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can each, drained and rinsed. Rinsing gets rid of some of the… uh… bean juice . You know?
Red bell pepper: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup). this red pepper adds a vibrant color! this recipe is a great way to use up those recipes using red peppers you have lying around.
Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup (about 50g), pitted and halved. These add a salty, briny kick.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: 1/4 cup (packed), drained and chopped. Adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . For that deep, umami goodness.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) , low-sodium. This is important, you can always add salt later!
Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup each of parsley and basil, chopped. Fresh makes all the difference!
Spice It Up: Seasoning Notes
The right spices can transform a simple dish into something amazing.
- Oregano & Basil: 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil form the foundation of this Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a little bit of heat!
- Salt & Pepper: To taste. Always! Season generously.
- Spinach And Roasted Red Pepper Stuffed Chicken ? Think about adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky note.
Essential Equipment: Keeping it Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make this stew. Just the basics will do!
- Slow Cooker (Crock Pot): A 6-quart size is perfect.
- Large Skillet: Only needed if you choose to sear the chicken. I'd say it's a must.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping veggies.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise measurements.
Alright, let's dive into this mediterranean chicken and chickpea stew ! honestly, finding good healthy crock pot recipes that aren't bland can be a real pain.
I've been there. but trust me, this one’s a keeper. it’s like sunshine in a bowl, seriously. i remember once, i made this for a potluck, and it was gone within minutes! people were practically licking their bowls.
So let’s get started!
Crock-Pot Perfection: Mediterranean Stew Time!
This stew is all about vibrant flavours and happy bellies. forget those boring, bland slow cooker recipes. this mediterranean chicken and chickpea stew is bursting with sunshine.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make.
Prep Like a Pro!
Okay, first things first: the mise en place . basically, that's just fancy chef talk for getting everything chopped, measured, and ready to go.
Chop your onion, garlic and your red bell pepper. rinse your beans. it will save you time. this is when you can also trim the chicken.
This spinach and red pepper stuffed chicken recipe is also a great idea if you want something similar! safety reminder! remember to wash your hands.
Step-by-Step: From Prep to Plate
This is where the magic happens. Follow these steps. This one also works well for healthy filling dinner recipes .
- (Optional) Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Brown the chicken for 2- 3 minutes per side.
- Base Layer: Put the onion and garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pile It On: Dump in the chicken, tomatoes, chickpeas, beans, pepper, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Broth Bath: Pour in 1 cup of chicken or veg broth.
- Season and Cook: Season and cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours . Chicken should be 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Shred It: Take out the chicken. Shred it using forks.
- Mix It Up: Put the chicken back. Stir it well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up and put parsley and basil on top.
Pro Tips & Tricks!
Want to take this stew to the next level? Try these shortcuts and stuffed chicken ideas .
- Don't Crowd the Pot: Keep your slow cooker no more than two-thirds full. This ensures everything cooks evenly.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to add more spices or herbs. Taste the stew before serving.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep all the ingredients the night before. Store them in the fridge, then toss them in the slow cooker in the morning. This is especially great if you're looking for easy spinach diet recipes .
This stew is packed with nutrients, protein, and flavour. enjoy this super easy stew that is great for using recipes using red peppers .
Plus, it is way better than ordering takeout. so get cooking.
Alright, let’s chat about taking your stew to the next level. Trust me, it's the little things that make all the difference.
Recipe Notes
This ain't just a recipe; it's an invitation to play around in the kitchen! don't be afraid to tweak things to your liking.
Maybe you’re feeling a bit adventurous. add a splash of dry sherry near the end for a richer flavor. it’s like giving your taste buds a little hug.
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Stew
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew . How do you make it look and taste even better?
Plating and presentation ideas: Forget boring bowls! Serve it in a rustic ceramic dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top? Chef's kiss! A swirl of good olive oil just before serving? Divine!
Complementary sides or beverages: honestly, crusty bread is a must! think about serving a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette.
A crisp, dry white wine, like a pinot grigio, would be a great pairing, too. this works great with recipes using red peppers .
Storage Tips: Making It Last
Life's busy, innit? Here’s how to keep your stew fresh and delicious.
Refrigeration guidelines: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
Freezing options (if applicable): you can freeze this! let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. it’ll keep for up to 2 months.
This is also great with spinach diet recipes .
Reheating instructions: Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave. Give it a good stir to make sure it’s heated through.
Variations: Make It Your Own
Want to mix things up? No problem!
1-2 dietary adaptations: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more chickpeas and vegetables. Job done! To make it lower in sodium, use no-salt-added canned tomatoes and broth.
Seasonal ingredient swaps: In the summer, add fresh zucchini or yellow squash. In the winter, try adding some butternut squash for a sweeter flavour.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Let's get down to brass tacks. This stew is not just delicious; it’s good for you!
Simplified nutrition information: It’s packed with protein, fibre, and vitamins. A win-win!
Key health benefits: Chickpeas are great for your gut. The chicken provides lean protein, and the vegetables are full of antioxidants.
So, there you have it! this is healthy crock pot recipes made easy and delicious. whether you're after quick dinners or trying to be a bit more health-conscious, this ticks all the boxes.
The beauty of spinach and red pepper stuffed chicken is really a win-win. you might enjoy spinach and roasted red pepper stuffed chicken .
Remember, cooking should be fun! so, get in the kitchen, get creative, and enjoy the process. you’ve got this! and the results of roasted red pepper mozzarella spinach stuffed chicken is a healthy addition to your diet.
Hopefully some of these stuffed chicken ideas are good for you. if you want other recipes with roasted red peppers , then you have come to the right place.
It will surely be one of the more healthy filling dinner recipes you can have!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew recipe actually healthy? I'm trying to eat better!
Absolutely! This Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich chickpeas and beans, and plenty of vegetables. It's a great way to get a nutritious and satisfying meal without any sneaky added sugars or unhealthy fats. Think of it as a hug in a bowl that's actually good for you – like a kale smoothie that tastes amazing!
How can I adapt this to be one of my regular healthy crock pot recipes for meal prepping?
This stew is fantastic for meal prepping! Simply cook a large batch on Sunday and portion it out into containers. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. Think of it as your own personal batch of healthy ready meals!
Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew vegetarian, and if so, how?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian! Simply omit the chicken and add another can of chickpeas and cannellini beans to give you extra bulk and plant-based protein. You could also throw in some chopped zucchini or eggplant for extra veggies. It'll be just as hearty and delicious, even without the chicken – a proper veggie feast, innit?
I'm short on time. Can I skip searing the chicken? Will it still taste good?
Definitely! Searing the chicken adds an extra layer of flavor, but it's absolutely not essential. If you're in a rush, just toss the chicken thighs straight into the slow cooker. The stew will still be delicious and flavorful, I promise. It's all about convenience, and sometimes you just need a quick and easy meal – Bob's your uncle!
How long will leftovers of this stew last, and what's the best way to store them?
Leftover Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Stew will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just be sure it's piping hot before serving, as Delia would advise!
What are some easy variations I can make to this healthy crock pot recipes?
There are loads of ways to jazz up this stew! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped fresh chili. A squeeze of lemon juice or a teaspoon of lemon zest will brighten the flavors. You could also add different veggies, like spinach or kale, towards the end of the cooking time. Get creative and make it your own signature dish – channel your inner Heston Blumenthal!
