A perfect midweek meal packed full of flavour
When you need a quick tasty midweek, then lemon-spiced chicken with chickpeas is a great go-to.
- SERVES: 4
- PREP TIME: 5 mins
- COOK TIME: 15 mins
- DIFFICULTY: easy
- IDEAL FOR: healthy, midweek meal
Lemon-spiced chicken and chickpeas: A flavour-packed one-pan wonder
If you’re looking for a quick, flavourful, and healthy dinner, then you’ve got to try this Lemon-Spiced Chicken and Chickpeas recipe.
With vibrant citrus notes, warm spices, and tender chicken, this dish brings together everything you love about Mediterranean-inspired flavours in one easy, weeknight-friendly meal.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal that satisfies or a light dish that’s packed with protein, this recipe is the perfect balance of both.
And the best part?
It’s a one-pan wonder, making dishing washing nice and quick.
Why you’ll love this lemon-spiced chicken and chickpeas
- Packed with flavour: The combination of lemon, garlic, cumin, paprika, and a hint of cinnamon creates an aromatic and zesty marinade that infuses the chicken and chickpeas with layers of flavour.
- Easy to make: Minimal prep, one pan, and just 30 minutes to cook. Perfect for busy weeknights or a low-effort dinner that feels like a treat.
- Healthy: Chicken thighs provide rich, tender meat, while chickpeas offer fiber and protein, making this meal filling and nutritious.
- Versatile: Serve it over couscous, rice, or alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Serving suggestions
If you want to bulk this up a bit more then try some of these ideas to serve alongside.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous makes a great base for this dish, soaking up all the delicious lemony juices from the chicken and chickpeas.
- Green salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken and chickpeas over mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Pita and tzatziki: Serve with warm pita and a side of creamy tzatziki or hummus.
This lemon-spiced chicken and chickpeas is all about simple ingredients can create something delicious.
With a handful of spices, a squeeze of lemon, and a few pantry staples, you can create a vibrant, healthy meal.
So, next time you need a quick and easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavour, give this recipe a try.
It’s guaranteed to become part of your midweek meal recipe repertoire.
For another great midweek meal, check out Garlic butter baked chicken breast
Reference: BBC Good Food
Lemon-spiced chicken and chickpeas
Ingredients
- 4 skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- olive oil for cooking
- 1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- zest and juice of one lemon
- 400 g chickpeas drained (I use Bold Beans)
- 200 ml chicken stock
- 250 g greens – spinach, spring greens, etc
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan, fry the onion and red peppers gently for 5 mins. Add in the chicken and fry until golden.
- Stir in the spices and lemon zest for 1 min then add a splash of stock to mix it altogether well. Then add in the chickpeas and the rest of stock. Taste and add any seasoning.
- Add the greens and pop on a lid and let simmer for 5 mins or until the greens are cooked.Squeeze some lemon juice over the dish, stir together and serve.