Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine on busy days when I want a nourishing meal without the fuss. The flavors blend beautifully as the chickpeas, vegetables, and spices cook slowly together, creating a hearty dish that feels comforting yet light. Plus, knowing that I can prep everything the night before and let it cook while I go about my day makes this a go-to recipe. The result is a vibrant, aromatic tagine that fills the kitchen with an incredible scent, making everyone eager to dig in!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:31:14.951Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, especially when I can share a healthy dish like this Chickpea Tagine with friends and family. I remember the first time I tried a tagine recipe, the depth of flavor was remarkable. The richness of spices combined with the earthiness of chickpeas creates a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

One of my favorite tips I learned while perfecting this recipe is to sauté the garlic and onions before adding them to the crockpot. This simple step enhances the flavors exponentially. Plus, don't shy away from adding your favorite veggies; I often toss in extra carrots and bell peppers to boost the nutrients and color!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A hearty and nutritious plant-based meal
Packed with spices for an aromatic experience
Effortless preparation thanks to the crockpot

      

Ingredient Insight

Chickpeas serve as the hearty base in this tagine, offering not only protein but also fiber, making the dish filling and nutritious. Their mild, nutty flavor allows them to absorb the spices beautifully. Choosing canned chickpeas is a time-saver; just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium and enhance their flavor before adding to the crockpot.

Vegetables like carrots and bell peppers are vital for adding natural sweetness and texture to the dish. Carrots soften and become sweeter as they cook, while bell peppers contribute a slight crunch if added later in the cooking process. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider substituting with sweet potatoes or zucchini, which will also meld well with the spices.

Cooking Technique Tips

When slow-cooking, it’s crucial to layer your ingredients thoughtfully. Start with vegetables at the bottom, simulating a natural slow-cook process that prevents them from burning. This method helps release their moisture, which not only maintains the tagine's cooking consistency but also concentrates the flavors. Remember, the goal is to create a lush, stew-like consistency that’s both comforting and satisfying.

If pressed for time, you can reduce the cooking duration. Cooking on high for about 4 hours achieves a similar result, but make sure to monitor the texture of the vegetables to avoid overcooking them. You want them tender but not mushy, retaining some structure for an inviting bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by chopping the carrots, bell peppers, and onion. Mince the garlic. This prep will ensure that all ingredients are ready for the crockpot.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, chopped vegetables, garlic, spices, and vegetable broth.

Season and Stir

Season with salt and pepper, then stir everything well to combine.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.

Serve

Once finished, stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. You can also serve this tagine over couscous or quinoa for an extra heartiness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can wash and chop the vegetables a day in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time on cooking day but also allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just add the prepped ingredients to the crockpot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, allow the tagine to cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. It freezes well for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it a perfect go-to meal for busy days.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this hearty tagine, serve it over fluffy couscous or quinoa for a complete meal; the grains soak up the rich sauce beautifully. For a gluten-free option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or a side of polenta, which can also add a creamy texture to complement the spiced flavors of the chickpeas.

For added freshness, pair the dish with a simple salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or serve alongside warm pita bread. You can also include a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini sauce for creaminess, balancing the spices beautifully and enriching the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.

→ Is there a substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water, but the flavor will be less robust. For added flavor, consider using a homemade broth or low-sodium chicken broth if not vegan.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just reheat in the crockpot or on the stove before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or any seasonal vegetables of your choice. They’ll work wonderfully with the spices!