Paprika Chicken with Spanish-Style Chickpeas

Craving flavor? Our chicken with chickpeas recipe is gluten-free, easy, & packed with Mediterranean goodness. Get the recipe now!

Chicken with Chickpeas: A Gluten-Free Delight

Looking for a hearty and healthy gluten-free meal? This chicken with chickpeas recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with flavor, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your gluten-free lifestyle. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, you’ll absolutely love this!

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different vegetables or spices. For another great gluten-free Mediterranean option, be sure to check out our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. And if you’re looking for a simple gluten-free appetizer to start with, our Gluten-Free Bruschetta is always a hit!

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. The combination of marinated chicken and flavorful chickpeas creates a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Pilau Rice, ensuring your entire meal is gluten-free and delicious.

This recipe provides a balanced approach to gluten-free cooking, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy!

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts
  • Lemon juice
  • Paprika
  • Olive oil
  • Onion
  • Carrot
  • Celery
  • Salt
  • Courgette
  • Peppers
  • Tomato purée
  • Garlic
  • Smoked paprika
  • Honey
  • Sherry vinegar
  • Rosemary
  • Chickpeas
  • Chopped tomatoes
  • Water
  • Olives
  • Spinach
  • Parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Crusty bread

Method

Step 1

Put the chicken breasts in a dish, squeeze over the lemon juice, 1 tsp of paprika and 1 tbsp of olive oil with some seasoning. Leave to marinate while you make the chickpeas.

Step 2

Heat another 1 tbsp of oil in a large pan and fry the onion, carrot and celery with a pinch of salt for 10-15 mins or until soft and lightly golden. Add the courgette and peppers, cook for another 5-10 mins, then stir in the tomato purée and garlic. Cook for 2 mins until fragrant, then add 2 tsp of smoked paprika, the honey, sherry vinegar, rosemary, chickpeas and chopped tomatoes with 100-200ml water (or use the chickpea water if they’re jarred). Season and simmer, semi-covered, for 20 mins until thickened and saucy.

Step 3

Heat a griddle pan over a high heat and cook the chicken for 3-5 mins on each side or until golden, lightly charred and cooked through. Leave to rest on a warm plate for 5 mins, then stir the resting juices into the chicken.

Step 4

Stir the olives and spinach through the chickpeas, and top with the chicken. Add the parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over and crusty bread.

Making Your Chicken with Chickpeas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Begin by preparing the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon over them, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Ensure the chicken is well coated, and let it marinate while you prepare the chickpeas. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, making it more tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Preparing the Chickpea Stew

In a large, deep pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, along with a pinch of salt. Sauté these vegetables for 10-15 minutes, or until they are soft and lightly golden. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for the stew.

Next, add the chopped courgette (zucchini) and bell peppers to the pan. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the tomato purée (paste) and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Now, it’s time to add the spices and remaining ingredients. Stir in 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, honey, sherry vinegar, rosemary, chickpeas (drained and rinsed if using canned), and chopped tomatoes. Add 100-200ml of water, or, for a richer flavor, use the liquid from the jar of chickpeas. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and become rich.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

While the chickpea stew is simmering, heat a griddle pan over high heat until it is very hot. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot griddle pan and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown, lightly charred, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a warm plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, stir any accumulated juices from the plate back into the chicken. This adds extra flavor.

Step 4: Combining and Serving

Finally, stir the olives and spinach through the chickpea stew. The spinach will wilt quickly from the heat. Top the chickpea mixture with the grilled chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over.

For a complete meal, serve with your favorite gluten-free crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy!

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Chicken with Chickpeas

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 celery stick, chopped
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 courgette, chopped
  • 2 peppers, chopped
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sherry vinegar
  • 1 sprig rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 x 400g cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 400g can chopped tomatoes
  • 100-200ml water (or chickpea water)
  • Handful of olives
  • Large handful of spinach
  • Small bunch of parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges, to serve
  • Crusty bread, to serve (ensure gluten-free if required)

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken with Chickpeas (Gluten-Free)

This Chicken with Chickpeas recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, especially for those following a gluten-free diet. Let’s break down the key components:

  • Chicken: A lean source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair. It’s naturally gluten-free and provides vital nutrients like niacin and selenium.
  • Chickpeas: These legumes are a nutritional powerhouse! They are high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health, crucial for anyone avoiding gluten. Chickpeas are also a great source of plant-based protein and iron.
  • Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery, courgette, and peppers contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These help boost your immune system and overall well-being. The variety of colors ensures a broad spectrum of nutrients.
  • Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits. Canned chopped tomatoes provide a convenient and nutritious base for the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: A healthy fat source, olive oil is beneficial for heart health and adds richness to the dish.
  • Spices (Paprika, Smoked Paprika, Rosemary): These add flavor and potential anti-inflammatory properties without gluten.

Gluten-Free Advantage: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and satisfying option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It relies on whole, unprocessed ingredients, ensuring no hidden sources of gluten.

Tips, Substitutions, and Variations for Your Chicken with Chickpeas

Want to customize your Chicken with Chickpeas? Here are some ideas to tailor it to your dietary needs and preferences:

  • Vegetarian/Vegan Variation: Substitute the chicken breasts with firm tofu or extra chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian or vegan meal. Ensure the tofu is pressed to remove excess water before cooking.
  • Lower Carb Option: Reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar-free sweetener. Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of bread to lower the overall carbohydrate content.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to control the heat. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used as well (use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh).
  • Chickpea Liquid (Aquafaba): As the recipe suggests, if you are using canned chickpeas, save the liquid! It’s called aquafaba and can be used to thicken the stew or even whisked into a meringue!
  • Olive Options: Use green or black olives, and feel free to pit them before adding to the dish.
  • Make Ahead: The chickpea stew can be made a day or two in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Add the spinach just before serving to prevent it from wilting too much.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Chicken with Chickpeas! It’s a versatile dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

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