Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet

Name: Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of ground cumin; 1 teaspoon of ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making my Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet when I'm in the mood for a comforting yet quick meal. It's packed with protein and bursting with flavors, thanks to the aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. I usually serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. This dish not only satisfies my cravings but also elevates my weeknight dinners, making them feel a bit more special without taking too much time to prepare.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:43:14.182Z

When I first tried making this Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor. The combination of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika transforms the dish into a vibrant experience. I remember enjoying it with friends, and it quickly became a favorite among them!

Another tip I discovered is to let the dish simmer for a few extra minutes after adding the chickpeas. This not only thickens the sauce but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It's perfect for meal prep too; just store it in the fridge and reheat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors
Nutritious and satisfying for any meal
Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Spices

The spices in this dish are key to achieving its warm, inviting flavor profile. Ground cumin brings a nutty depth, while coriander adds a citrusy brightness that complements the earthy chickpeas beautifully. Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste. To release their full potential, make sure to sauté the spices for at least 1-2 minutes after adding them to the skillet, stirring frequently until fragrant and well-combined. This technique is crucial for a robust flavor in every bite.

For those looking to modify the spice level, feel free to adjust the smoked paprika. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the spices. It's essential to start with a small amount and taste as you go, ensuring the heat level aligns with your preference without overpowering the dish.

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

Using high-quality, fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor of your Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet. If using canned tomatoes, opt for whole or crushed tomatoes packed in juice rather than water for a richer taste. When selecting onions, look for those with firm skin and no soft spots; a yellow onion works best as it balances sweetness and acidity in the dish. Fresh garlic adds pungency, but if it’s not available, garlic powder can be a quick substitute—use approximately 1/4 teaspoon per clove.

If you're interested in adding more vegetables for nutrition or to bulk up the dish, consider tossing in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, adding these extras after the onions and garlic have softened. This flexibility not only diversifies the flavors but also enhances the nutrient profile of your skillet meal.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet is ideal for meal prep and leftovers. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the mixture has thickened. For longer storage, this dish freezes well—just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months.

For serving, I love pairing the skillet with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or even couscous for a heartier meal. To add a touch of creaminess, drizzle a little yogurt or plant-based sour cream on top just before serving. Each of these options enhances the dish while appealing to a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your hearty chickpea skillet.

Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that's sure to impress!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up a delicious meal in no time.

Cook the onions and garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the spices

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onion and garlic mixture, letting the spices bloom for about 1-2 minutes.

Mix in the tomatoes and chickpeas

Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Let it simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy your Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet warm!

With these simple steps, you'll have a hearty meal ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the spices. You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your skillet seems too dry or thick while cooking, don’t hesitate to add small amounts of water or vegetable broth as it simmers. This will help maintain the right consistency and keep the chickpeas tender. Additionally, if the flavors seem muted after simmering, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of vinegar can brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the spices and tomatoes.

In case the chickpeas are too mushy, leading to a less desirable texture, consider adding them later in the cooking process next time, allowing the tomatoes to simmer alone for a bit longer. This approach helps maintain the firm bite of the chickpeas while still integrating all the flavors.

Flavor Variations

To switch things up, try experimenting with different herbs and spices. For instance, adding fresh thyme or cilantro towards the end of cooking can introduce a refreshing note. You could also incorporate a dash of curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist, or some Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a Mediterranean flair. These simple variations can transform the dish and keep it exciting each time you prepare it.

For a heartier version, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or carrots along with the onions. They will create a sweeter contrast to the spiced tomatoes. Simply roast the addition in the skillet for a few extra minutes to soften them before mixing in the chickpeas and tomatoes, ensuring they cook evenly together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure it's in a suitable container and will last for up to 2 months.