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Chicken and Chickpea Stew

This aromatic chicken and chickpea stew is a nourishing choice for a midweek meal, combining lean protein with the earthy flavours of North African spices. The warmth of cinnamon and cumin pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes and tender courgettes, creating a satisfying and fragrant sauce. By using whole-wheat couscous as a base, the dish gains a lovely nutty texture while remaining light enough for a healthy supper.

As a high-protein recipe, this stew is particularly suited for those looking for a balanced, filling dinner that supports an active lifestyle. The inclusion of tinned chickpeas adds plenty of fibre and plant-based protein, making the meal go further without much extra effort. Serve it bowls with a generous scatter of fresh coriander or mint to lift the savoury notes of the broth.

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Ingredients for Chicken and Chickpea Stew

  • 180ml whole-wheat couscous

  • 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 3/4 teaspoons salt, divided

  • 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 350ml chopped onion

  • 2 large cloves garlic, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, drained

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

  • 1 can (425g) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

  • 240ml low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 yellow or green courgette (170g), cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander (or mint)

Cook couscous as directed on package. Season chicken with 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoons pepper. In a nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook chicken, turning once, 2 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate. Cook onion in same skillet, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook, stirring, 1 minute more. Add tomatoes, cumin and cinnamon; cook, stirring, 2 minutes more. Return chicken to skillet; add chickpeas, broth, courgette, remaining 1/2 teaspoons salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoons pepper. Simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Serve stew with couscous. Garnish with coriander.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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