Are you craving a hearty, soul-warming dish that combines protein-packed chicken with creamy chickpeas in a symphony of flavors? Look no further! This Chicken and Chickpea Stew is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend gatherings, this international-inspired stew will transport your senses to a world of rich, aromatic delights that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: International
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting chicken breast into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.
- Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and half of the cumin. Add chicken to the hot pan and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and remaining cumin, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return browned chicken to the pot and add drained chickpeas and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Check chicken for doneness, ensuring it's cooked through and tender. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, or over couscous for a complete meal.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, make sure to brown the chicken thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This creates a delicious fond (browned bits) that adds depth to your stew.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level, allowing you to adjust seasoning precisely to your taste.
- Don't rush the simmering process. The longer the stew simmers, the more the flavors will meld and intensify.
- For extra richness, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro when serving.
- This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors continue to develop overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you want a thicker stew, you can use a potato masher to slightly crush some of the chickpeas, which will naturally thicken the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
