Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I love making this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet whenever I'm craving something both satisfying and health-conscious. It brings together the creaminess of coconut milk and the zest of fresh lemon, creating a flavorful dish that I can whip up in just 30 minutes. Not only is it packed with protein from the chickpeas, but the vibrant flavors make it a delightful meal that everyone enjoys. Whether I’m hosting friends or having a cozy dinner at home, this skillet dish never fails to impress.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:38:37.163Z

One evening, I wanted to create a dish that was both comforting and light, so I decided to try a creamy chickpea skillet. The idea was simple yet effective: combine chickpeas with coconut milk and fresh lemon for a vibrant taste. I found that adding lemon zest right at the end really amplified the dish's brightness!

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that balancing the acidity of the lemon with the richness of the coconut made all the difference. Sautéing garlic and spinach added wonderful depth, making it a dish I never tire of.

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        Creamy coconut milk melds perfectly with citrus zest
Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal
Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes

      

The Heart of the Dish: Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet, providing a hefty dose of protein and fiber. They also add a great texture that's both creamy and hearty. When using canned chickpeas, be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and enhance their flavor. If you prefer a deeper flavor profile, try roasting dry chickpeas in the oven until golden and crunchy before adding them to the skillet. This method can add a delightful contrast of textures.

Besides being nutritious, chickpeas absorb the delicious flavors of the dish. It's essential to warm them sufficiently in the skillet before adding the coconut milk and other ingredients. This step ensures that they reach the right temperature and are infused with the aromatics, making each bite flavorful. If you're looking to serve this dish as a more substantial main course, consider increasing the amount of chickpeas or complementing it with a grain such as quinoa or couscous.

Balancing Creaminess with Freshness

The use of coconut milk in this recipe not only contributes to a creamy texture but also brings a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon. When adding the coconut milk, watch for the moment when it starts to gently simmer; this is when the flavors meld the best. A great tip is to use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor, or go for light coconut milk if you prefer a lighter dish that still retains a creamy texture.

Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients, wilting down to create a beautiful contrast with the chickpeas. Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should be added at the end and cooked just until wilted, about 2 minutes. This quick cooking preserves its vibrant green color and nutritional benefits. For a twist, you can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard, just adjust the cooking time as tougher greens may need an extra minute or two to soften.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup coconut milk
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Chickpeas

Add the chickpeas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to warm through.

Incorporate Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and lemon juice, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Finish with Spinach

Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest before serving.

Enjoy Your Dish!

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can sprinkle some toasted chickpeas on top before serving.

Tips for Serving

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet can be served straight from the pan for a rustic, family-style meal. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro, which will add a pop of freshness and contrast to the dish's creaminess. Serving this dish over a bed of rice or whole grains enhances not only the texture but also the nutritional profile, making it a more fulfilling meal.

If you're entertaining guests, pair this dish with a side salad featuring ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The refreshing salad will complement the warmth and creaminess of the skillet and balance the dish nicely. Alternatively, serve it with warm naan or pita to scoop up the creamy chickpeas; it’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy the meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers or have made a larger batch, store the Creamy Lemon Chickpea Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra coconut milk to restore the creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and a smooth texture.

This dish also freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat as instructed. Just be mindful that the spinach may lose some of its vibrant color on reheating, but it will still be delicious and nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Yes! Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand. You'll need about 1.5 cups of cooked chickpeas.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is plant-based and perfect for vegans.

→ What can I serve with this skillet?

It's delicious on its own, but you can serve it over rice or with a side of crusty bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.