Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach

Name: Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I love whipping up this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach on busy weeknights. It’s a vibrant meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when we crave something nutritious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The chickpeas provide a hearty texture, while the fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrients. With lemon zest and herbs elevating the flavor, this dish has quickly become a favorite in my household for its simplicity and taste.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:06:38.158Z

I still remember the first time I made this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet. My family was gathered around the kitchen, and the aroma filled the air as the garlic sautéed and the lemon zest brightened the room. I love how quick and easy it is—within minutes, we’re sitting down to a colorful and vibrant meal that nourishes our bodies.

Experimenting with various herbs, I've found that a mix of thyme and parsley really compliments the chickpeas. For an extra burst of flavor, I sometimes toss in a bit of red pepper flakes to spice things up a notch. It's these little details that make this dish my go-to on busy nights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor that awakens your palate
Nutritious ingredients make it a balanced meal
Easy to prepare and quick to clean up

Ingredient Spotlight

Chickpeas are not only the star ingredient in this dish but also serve as an excellent source of protein and fiber. They provide a hearty base that transforms this dish from a side into a satisfying main course. Ensuring they are drained and rinsed well helps to reduce any excess sodium while enhancing their flavor, allowing them to absorb the zesty lemon and fragrant herbs more effectively.

Fresh spinach offers vibrant color and essential vitamins, especially vitamin A and iron. When sautéed, it wilts down significantly, so using four cups might seem like a lot, but it cooks down to a perfect portion. Look for bright, crisp leaves without any browning for the best quality. If you’re short on fresh spinach, you can substitute with frozen spinach; just make sure to drain excess moisture.

Cooking Techniques

To get the best flavor out of your garlic, be sure to sauté it just until fragrant, about 2 minutes. If you cook it for too long, it can turn bitter, leading to an undesirable taste. Using a wooden spoon helps you scrape up any bits that may stick to the pan, ensuring that all the flavors are combined beautifully.

When incorporating the spinach, keep an eye on it; it should wilt but retain a bright green color, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. If you overcook it, the spinach may lose its vibrant hue and nutrients. For a heartier version, you can experiment by adding other greens like kale or Swiss chard—just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they soften appropriately.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add Chickpeas

Stir in the drained chickpeas, dried thyme, and parsley. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors.

Incorporate Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently stir to combine.

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top before serving. This also adds a nice tang to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet can be served on its own for a light meal or paired with grains like quinoa or brown rice for a more filling option. The bright and zesty flavors complement roasted vegetables well, making it a versatile dish that can balance various sides. Consider topping it with feta cheese or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added creaminess and crunch.

If you have leftovers, they’re perfect for lunch the next day! This skillet dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat it on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or additional lemon juice to keep it from drying out.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch, and it stores beautifully in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the meal may expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen portions, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. In a skillet, warm it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Adding a bit of fresh lemon juice just before serving can help freshen up the flavors after freezing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute fresh spinach with frozen?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with quinoa, couscous, or can be served over a bed of rice.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.