Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love preparing dishes that are not only delicious but also nutrient-dense, and this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine fits the bill perfectly. The combination of spices and chickpeas creates a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and goodness. Plus, the slow-cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, making it an effortless option for busy days. I always feel satisfied after indulging in this recipe, knowing it’s both hearty and wholesome. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll want to savor during your weeknight dinners.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:58:13.568Z

Making this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine was a delightful adventure in my kitchen. I experimented with a mix of spices that filled my home with irresistible aromas, and it was fascinating to see how the flavors deepened as they simmered. My secret tip? Roasting the spices briefly before adding them enhances their fragrance and overall impact in the dish.

This recipe has quickly become one of my go-tos for meal prep. The versatility of chickpeas allows the tagine to pair wonderfully with various sides, whether it’s couscous, quinoa, or even crusty bread. Each bite is a reminder that healthy food can truly be exciting and satisfying!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        It's rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
The blend of spices creates a warm, aromatic experience.
It's a set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy weeks.

      

Mastering the Slow-Cooking Technique

The beauty of a slow-cooked dish like this Chickpea Tagine lies in the gentle melding of flavors over time. As it simmers, the spices such as cumin and coriander release their essential oils, infusing the chickpeas and vegetables with rich, complex tastes. If you're short on time, while I recommend a longer cook time for optimal flavor, you can also set the crockpot to high for 2 hours. Just keep an eye on the consistency to ensure your tagine doesn’t dry out.

Consider using a crockpot with a programmable timer for added convenience. This is particularly useful if you want to prep the meal the night before. Simply store the chopped veggies and spices in the crockpot insert and refrigerate. In the morning, add the chickpeas and vegetable broth, then set the machine to cook while you go about your day. This not only saves prep time, but it also allows you to wake up to the aromatic scent of your tagine.

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are the star of this dish, offering a robust texture and substantial dietary fiber. They not only provide plant-based protein, making this tagine filling, but they also absorb the surrounding flavors beautifully, ensuring every bite is savory. If you prefer a different legume, lentils could serve as a decent substitute, although cooking times may vary, and they won’t hold their shape as well as chickpeas do.

The addition of dried apricots brings a delightful sweetness that balances the dish's spices. If you don’t have dried apricots on hand, consider using raisins or even chopped dates for a similar flavor profile. Keep in mind that different dried fruits can vary in sweetness, so taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly. This balance of sweet and savory is what makes this tagine uniquely satisfying.

Serving and Storing Tips

When your Chickpea Tagine is ready, serve it warm over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up the flavorful broth. A dollop of thick yogurt on top can also enhance the dish’s richness and creaminess. Garnish with fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness, elevating the overall presentation. This dish also pairs well with warm naan bread for a delightful twist.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors of the tagine will continue to develop as it sits. For longer-term storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, which will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them cool completely before freezing. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth to revive the texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious and nourishing tagine!

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 zucchini, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
Fresh cilantro for garnish

These ingredients will create a delightful balance of flavors in your tagine!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your tagine in the crockpot.

Prepare the Veggies

In a medium bowl, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, and dried apricots.

Add the Spices

Sprinkle the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetable mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir gently to mix everything well.

Set the Crockpot

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, give it a good stir and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy tagine!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of harissa for some heat before serving.

Ingredient Variations

For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding ingredients such as chopped carrots or sweet potatoes. These vegetables not only enhance the dish's nutritional value but also add a creamy texture as they cook down in the tagine. Additionally, if you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it an invigorating kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.

If you need a gluten-free option, serve this tagine with cauliflower rice or simply enjoy it as is. The versatility of chickpeas allows them to shine on their own, and their rich texture can stand up to any alternative side you choose.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your tagine is too watery after cooking, it can be beneficial to uncover the crockpot for the last 30 minutes and let it reduce. This helps to concentrate the flavors and achieve a desirable consistency. On the other hand, if it comes out too dry, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes on low.

Another common concern is over-seasoning. If your dish tastes overly salty or spiced, adding a splash of lemon juice or serving with a side of plain yogurt can help neutralize the flavors. Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasonings as needed. This way, you can ensure a perfectly balanced tagine every time.

Make-Ahead Convenience

The Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Its hearty ingredients endure well when cooked ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for weekly meal planning. You can prepare the components in advance—chop your veggies, season your chickpeas, and store everything in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to cook, just pop everything into the crockpot.

As a time-saving strategy, doubling this recipe can yield enough servings to last throughout the week. With the option to freeze portions, you’ll always have a nutritious meal ready at your fingertips. Just remember to label your containers with the date before freezing for easy reference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

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

→ What can I serve with the tagine?

It pairs well with couscous, quinoa, or a side of crusty bread.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly!

→ How can I store leftovers?

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