Chicken Chickpea Stew is a hearty, slow-simmered dish where tender chicken meets protein-rich chickpeas in a spiced tomato base. Celebrated on World Pulses Day, this stew highlights how pulses have long supported balanced meals across cultures. The recipe suits cooler seasons, when warm, nourishing bowls feel most satisfying.
Wash and soak dried chickpeas in plenty of water for 8–10 hours. Drain and pressure-cook in fresh water with a little salt for 4–5 whistles. The chickpeas should be soft yet hold their shape. Reserve the cooking liquid for later use.
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Temper Spices
Heat oil in a deep pan or heavy-bottomed pot. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Let the cumin crackle gently to release aroma without browning, forming the flavour base of the stew.
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Onion Base
Add finely chopped onions and cook on medium heat. Stir regularly until they turn a light golden colour. This step adds sweetness and body, balancing the spices added later.
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Aromatics
Add ginger, garlic, and green chilli. Stir continuously and cook until the raw aroma fades. Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning while allowing flavours to develop evenly.
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Tomato Masala
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften completely and the oil begins to separate, indicating the masala is well-cooked.
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Cook Chicken
Add chicken pieces and mix thoroughly to coat them with the masala. Cook on medium heat until the chicken turns opaque and releases moisture, allowing it to absorb the spice base.
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Add Chickpeas
Add the cooked chickpeas along with some reserved cooking liquid. Stir gently so the chickpeas remain intact as they blend into the stew.
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Simmer
Add more water if needed to achieve a thick stew consistency. Cover and simmer on low heat, allowing the chicken to cook through and flavours to meld gradually.
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Finish
Add garam masala and chopped coriander leaves. Simmer briefly, then turn off the heat. Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving for better flavour balance.