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; 1 can of diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 teaspoons of cumin; 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making my Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet whenever I'm in need of a quick, nutritious meal. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices not only creates a delicious dish but also fills the kitchen with an aroma that makes my mouth water. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a versatile favorite that I can whip up in no time.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:01:16.916Z

When I first tried my Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet, I was surprised at how flavorful and satisfying it was. I used a mix of spices like cumin and paprika, which brought out the bright flavors of the tomatoes and enhanced the creaminess of the chickpeas. The first time I made it, I threw in some spinach I had leftover, and it turned out to be a perfect addition.

One tip I found useful is to allow the skillet to simmer a bit longer after adding the spices. This really helps in deepening the flavors and creating a rich, comforting sauce. Now, it’s my go-to recipe whenever I need a warm dish that doesn’t require much prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas
Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup required

      

Ingredient Highlights

Chickpeas are the star of this dish, bringing not only protein but also a creamy texture that complements the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. They also help to thicken the sauce as they cook, making the final dish hearty and satisfying. If you're looking for a variation, feel free to use canned lentils as a substitute; they will cook more quickly and add a similar creaminess.

The canned diced tomatoes provide a base that’s both convenient and flavorful. When selecting your tomatoes, look for those packed in juice rather than puree, as this will give you a fresher taste. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about four medium-sized ripe tomatoes, chopped. They’ll need a bit longer to break down, about 10 minutes more during the simmering step.

Flavor Boosting Tips

While this Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet is delicious as is, you can easily adapt it to elevate the flavors. Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste when you combine the tomatoes and chickpeas adds a concentrated sweetness and richness. For an extra kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can bring heat that balances the dish's flavors beautifully.

Don't underestimate the importance of seasoning. Tasting the dish as it cooks is crucial—adjust the salt and pepper as needed to enhance the chickpeas and veggies. For a twist, consider incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking; it adds depth and a hint of sweetness that can elevate your skillet.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons of cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Enjoy your vibrant and spicy chickpea dish!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, roughly 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Chickpeas and Spices

Incorporate the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, cumin, and smoked paprika into the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer and Serve

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

Pair it with rice or crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or greens you have, like spinach or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust the spices based on your heat preference – add chili flakes for extra spice!

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores well in the refrigerator, thanks to its ingredient composition. Place leftovers in an airtight container and they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up as it reheats.

If you want to enjoy this meal for longer, consider freezing it. Once cooled, transfer the skillet contents to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Chickpea Tomato Skillet can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides. For a comforting meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up the delicious flavors. Alternatively, a simple side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.

For a lighter option, I love serving this dish on a bed of fresh mixed greens. The warmth of the skillet contrasts beautifully with the cool greens, making for a delightful combination. Top with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor, too.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them before adding them to the skillet.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and contains no animal products.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet can be served over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread for a balanced meal.