Mediterranean Creamy Chicken & Chickpea Stew
This Mediterranean Creamy Chicken & Chickpea Stew is a cozy, protein-packed dish bursting with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. Tender chunks of chicken simmer with chickpeas, garlic, onion, tomatoes, and Mediterranean herbs, all brought together with a creamy, lemony yogurt-based finish. It’s hearty yet light, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep with a comforting Mediterranean twist.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–5)
For the stew:
1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional for greens)
For the creamy finish:
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
For garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Extra lemon wedges
Instructions
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, add chopped onion. Cook until softened (about 3 minutes), then stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the Stew Base:
Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and chili flakes if using. Stir well.
Simmer with Chicken:
Return the seared chicken to the pot. Bring the stew to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Add Greens (Optional):
Stir in spinach or kale and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Finish Creamy & Bright:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and zest. Turn off the heat, then stir the yogurt mixture gently into the stew (do not boil after adding yogurt to prevent curdling).
Taste & Serve:
Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy with warm pita, crusty bread, or over couscous or rice.
Tips & Variations
Cooking Tips:
Yogurt Trick: To avoid curdling when adding yogurt, make sure the stew is off the heat and slightly cooled before stirring in the yogurt-lemon mixture.
Thicker Stew: For a thicker consistency, mash a few chickpeas in the stew before adding the creamy finish.
Boost Flavor: Searing the chicken before stewing adds a deeper, richer flavor. Don’t skip this step!
Meal Prep Friendly: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen (before adding the yogurt).
Variations:
Vegetarian/Vegan Version
Skip the chicken and double the chickpeas or use canned white beans or lentils.
Swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt (like unsweetened coconut or cashew yogurt).
Spicy Twist
Add a chopped red chili or increase the chili flakes for a spicier kick.
A dash of harissa paste will also bring smoky heat and depth.
Mediterranean Veggie Boost
Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant when sautéing the onions.
Stir in olives or sun-dried tomatoes near the end for added briny flavor.
Creamy Swap Options
Instead of Greek yogurt, use a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a different kind of richness.
Or blend half the chickpeas with broth to naturally thicken the stew.
Fresh Herb Finish
Try finishing with fresh dill, basil, or mint for a refreshing Mediterranean touch.
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Chicken breast works just as well. Just be careful not to overcook it so it stays tender.
Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
A: You can use sour cream, crème fraîche, coconut yogurt (for dairy-free), or even a splash of cream if you’re not avoiding dairy.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Make the stew up to 3 days in advance. For best results, add the yogurt and lemon just before serving or reheating.
Q: Is this stew freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, but freeze it before adding the yogurt. Add fresh yogurt and lemon when reheating to avoid curdling.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Serve with warm pita, couscous, rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. A side of Mediterranean cucumber salad pairs well too!
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Serving – serves 4)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 480mg
Vitamin A: 20% DV
Vitamin C: 45% DV
Iron: 25% DV
Calcium: 12% DV
Note: Values may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Creamy Chicken & Chickpea Stew is a perfect example of comfort food done right—rich, hearty, and healthy. With a blend of lean protein, fiber-filled legumes, and Mediterranean spices, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. The creamy lemon-yogurt finish brightens each bite, offering a tangy twist that sets this dish apart. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight meal or prepping lunches for the week, this stew is a flavorful and wholesome choice that’s easy to love and easy to adapt.
Comforting, healthy, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor—this stew is a must-try!