Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 can coconut milk; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew! It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it combines the brightness of lemon with the heartiness of chickpeas in a creamy, satisfying broth. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a meal that’s not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a cozy weekend meal. The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile for any palate.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:41:34.926Z

When I first tried making a stew, I was unsure how to balance the flavors. But after experimenting with different herbs and spices, I discovered that the zest of fresh lemon not only brightens the dish but also enhances the creaminess of the chickpeas. This is how my Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew was born, and it has quickly become one of my favorite recipes.

I also learned that using coconut milk can add a beautiful creaminess without being heavy. After making it several times, I’ve found that adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving elevates the stew even more, giving it a fresh burst of flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon adds a refreshing brightness to every bite
Creamy texture makes it incredibly satisfying and comforting
Easy to make and customizable with seasonal vegetables.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The creamy texture of this stew primarily comes from the coconut milk, which provides a rich and smooth base. To achieve the ideal consistency, ensure the heat is on low when adding the coconut milk. This will prevent it from curdling and help the flavors meld together beautifully. You'll know you’ve done it right when the stew becomes glossy and well-blended.

If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, consider using light coconut milk or a blend of coconut milk and unsweetened almond milk. However, do keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor, so adjust the lemon juice accordingly to maintain that zesty brightness.

Customizing Your Stew

One of the best features of this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is its versatility. You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. If you add leafy greens, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep their vibrant color and nutrients intact. They should wilt just enough to enhance both texture and flavor without becoming overly mushy.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the taste profile, providing a lovely contrast to the creaminess. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices such as coriander or turmeric for added depth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 can coconut milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Stir in the chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

Incorporate Coconut Milk and Lemon

Reduce the heat to low, then add the coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, serve with toasted pita bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa. You can also add your favorite seasonal vegetables to enhance the dish's freshness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the base of the stew—sautéing the onions and garlic, followed by adding the chickpeas and broth—up to two days in advance. Store it in the fridge without adding the coconut milk and lemon until you're ready to serve, ensuring optimal freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the stew on medium-low heat and stir in the coconut milk and lemon juice. This prevents the milk from thickening too much and keeps that fresh citrus flavor bright.

Freezing and Reheating

If you want to freeze this stew, do so before adding the coconut milk and lemon juice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adjusting the consistency with a splash of vegetable broth.

Once heated, stir in the coconut milk and lemon for a fresh and creamy finish. A quick simmer for a few minutes ensures everything is heated through without losing the creamy texture you love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?

Yes, you can substitute chickpeas with other canned beans such as white beans or kidney beans.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pot when you sauté the onions.

→ Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is completely vegan friendly as it uses coconut milk.