Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach

Name: Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love creating quick and nutritious meals, and this Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach is one of my favorites. It's packed with protein-rich chickpeas and vibrant greens that truly make each bite a delight. The fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while the herbs infuse the dish with delightful flavor. Preparing this skillet is not only easy but also quick, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a light lunch. Trust me, everyone will look forward to this delicious meal!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:09:35.822Z

When I first tried making a chickpea dish, I was amazed by how versatile and filling they are. This Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet with Spinach has become a staple in my kitchen, especially for those days when I need something healthy yet satisfying. I love the balance of flavors, and adding fresh spinach gives it a wonderful color and texture!

I've found that using canned chickpeas saves a lot of time, and sautéing them with garlic and herbs really enhances their natural taste. If you want an extra punch, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of heat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that refreshes every bite.
Quick, healthy, and filling—perfect for any meal.
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions.

      

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are the star of this dish, providing a robust source of protein and fiber. They give the skillet a hearty texture and can absorb the flavors of the herbs beautifully. For those looking to change things up, you can substitute chickpeas with other legumes like cannellini beans or lentils, keeping in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly. Canned chickpeas offer convenience, but if you opt for dried, be sure to soak and cook them beforehand for the best results.

Fresh spinach adds a lovely green color and a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. It wilts quickly, so it’s best to add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its bright color and texture. If you don’t have spinach on hand, Swiss chard or kale can serve as a great alternative. Just remember that kale may take a bit longer to soften, so give it a few extra minutes in the pan.

Technique Tips

When sautéing garlic in olive oil, watch closely as it will turn from fragrant to burnt quickly. Aim for a golden color, which indicates it's ready to proceed to the next step. Using a nonstick skillet can help prevent sticking, especially if you're working with minimal oil. I also recommend keeping a spatula handy to scrape any bits that stick to the bottom, which adds flavor to the dish while ensuring an even cook.

Incorporating the spinach should be done at a medium heat, and you'll know it's ready when it has wilted down, turning a rich, dark green. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. If you're looking for a more textured dish, you might consider leaving some leaves whole or adding them in larger pieces—the variety in texture makes it visually appealing and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

2 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare and Sauté

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Chickpeas and Herbs

Stir in the chickpeas, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors.

Incorporate Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle with lemon juice, mixing well to combine. Serve hot and enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa if you’d like a heartier meal!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or serving this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Storage and Reheating

This Lemon Herb Chickpea Skillet holds up well for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you anticipate a longer storage time, consider freezing the dish. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

To maintain the freshness of the dish, avoid drizzling lemon juice until just before serving. The acidity can cause the spinach to become soggy over time, so freshening it up right before consumption ensures a vibrant, zesty flavor and a pleasing texture.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet makes a fantastic main dish on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with grains like quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. If you’re looking to add some complexity, consider serving it over a bed of herbed grains to enhance the dish. The added textures create a more filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

For a protein boost, you can top the skillet with roasted chicken or grilled shrimp, making it a hearty meal. Alternatively, a sprinkle of feta cheese adds a tangy flavor that complements the lemon and herbs beautifully. If you're vegan or dairy-free, nutritional yeast can serve as a delightful cheese substitute, adding a savory depth to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include bell peppers, zucchini, or any other greens you enjoy.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.