Chicken, Chickpea, and Spinach Curry
This Chicken, Chickpea, and Spinach Curry is a hearty and flavorful dish inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. Tender chicken, protein-rich chickpeas, and nutrient-packed spinach are simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce with warm curry spices. It’s a quick and healthy meal that pairs well with rice, couscous, or crusty bread.
Ingredients:
For the Curry:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a touch of warmth)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce)
½ cup chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a creamy version, optional)
Juice of ½ lemon (for freshness)
¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
Cooked rice, couscous, or crusty bread
Instructions:
1. Saute the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the Flavor
In the same pan, add onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Curry
Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Return the chicken to the pan, stir, and bring to a simmer.
Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Spinach & Cream
Stir in the spinach and cook for 2 minutes, until wilted.
If using, add heavy cream or coconut milk and stir until combined.
Squeeze in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Serve over rice, couscous, or with crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Fat: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fiber: ~7g
Sugars: ~6g
(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
Notes & Tips:
Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra chickpeas or tofu.
Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
This Chicken, Chickpea, and Spinach Curry is a nutritious, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!