Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken

Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken is a flavorful and exotic dish inspired by Spanish and North African cuisines. This simple stew combines tender chickpeas with aromatic spices, vegetables, and succulent chicken pieces. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress. The combination of tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and tender chicken creates a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 45 minutes with cooked chickpeas

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cups cooked or canned chickpeas, drained
• 2 cups bean-cooking liquid, stock, or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn
• 2 to 3 pounds chicken parts, preferably leg-thigh pieces separated at the joint, skin removed if desired
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 cups peeled, seeded, and chopped tomato (canned is fine; include the juices)
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large pot, warm the chickpeas with the bean-cooking liquid, stock, or water. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust the heat to maintain a slow simmer.
2. Heat the neutral oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides for about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, transfer the chicken to a roasting pan, and place it in the preheated oven.
3. Pour off all but 3 tablespoons of fat from the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, ground coriander, ground cumin, and chopped tomato. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any brown bits. Add this mixture to the simmering chickpeas.
4. After the chicken has cooked for about 15 minutes, check for doneness by making a small cut near the bone; the juices should run clear. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven.
5. Once the vegetables are tender, place the chickpeas and vegetables on a large, deep platter. Top with the roasted chicken pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley leaves.
6. Serve the Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken as a delicious and comforting main course, alongside cooked couscous, barley, or bulgur. The dish can also be accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

VARIATIONS:

• Stewed Chickpeas with Vegetables: Omit the chicken and sauté 3 cups of cubed salted eggplant or zucchini in olive oil until tender. Combine the chickpeas and their seasonings with the sautéed vegetables and roast until bubbly and lightly browned.
• Chickpea and Chicken Tagine: Omit the celery and carrot. Instead of transferring the chicken to a roasting pan, add the browned chicken pieces directly to the simmering chickpeas. Add cinnamon, a vanilla bean, and raisins or chopped dates for additional flavor. Cover the pot and cook until the chicken is very tender, approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

USES:

• Enjoy Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken as a flavorful and satisfying main course for a family dinner or special occasion.
• Serve the dish with cooked couscous, barley, or bulgur for a complete and filling meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a delicious and convenient lunch option.

Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines tender chickpeas, flavorful spices, and succulent chicken pieces. This versatile stew draws inspiration from Spanish and North African cuisines, creating a unique and exotic flavor profile. Whether enjoyed as a main course or served alongside grains like couscous or barley, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, Stewed Chickpeas with Chicken is a comforting and satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.