Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet

Name: Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, diced; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 200g feta cheese, crumbled; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet! It's quickly become a go-to recipe in our home, especially on busy weeknights when time is tight. The combination of tender zucchini, savory feta, and hearty chickpeas creates a deliciously satisfying meal that is both nutritious and filling. Plus, it's a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the flavors. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this vibrant and easy-to-make recipe!

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:31:14.846Z

When I first experimented with this Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet, I was looking for a nutritious yet comforting dinner option. The creamy feta really elevates the overall taste, and the chickpeas provide just the right amount of protein to keep me full.

One useful tip I discovered is that sautéing the zucchini until slightly caramelized enhances its sweetness, making the dish remarkably flavorful. Plus, I love how every bite bursts with the freshness of herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that I know I’ll keep returning to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and nutritious, packed with protein and fiber
Bursting with fresh flavors from zucchini and herbs
Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick weeknight meal

      

Ingredient Insights

Zucchini serves as the base of this dish, bringing a mild flavor and a juicy texture that cooks down beautifully. When selecting zucchinis, choose ones that are firm and vibrant in color; this ensures freshness. Diced into small, uniform pieces, they will cook evenly and allow for a delightful bite in each mouthful. If you're in a pinch, yellow squash can be a good substitute, offering similar textures and flavors.

Feta cheese not only enhances the dish's flavor profile with its tanginess but also contributes a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the chickpeas and zucchini. Opt for a block of feta instead of crumbled for a fresher taste. When incorporating it, make sure to stir gently—this helps you achieve the perfect consistency without completely breaking it down. If you're looking for a non-dairy alternative, consider using a cashew-based feta for a similar taste and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they are fragrant is crucial, as this step builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish. Aim for a light golden color, which usually takes about 2 minutes over medium heat. If they begin to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid bitterness. Once the zucchinis are added, keep an eye on them; they'll need about 5-7 minutes to soften but should still retain some bite to keep the texture interesting.

The caramelization of zucchinis when added to the skillet is key to enhancing their natural sweetness. It’s best to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing each piece to develop golden edges. Remember that cooking time may vary based on the sizing of your zucchini dice, so cut them as uniformly as possible. This technique not only intensifies flavors but also improves the overall visual appeal of the dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
200g feta cheese, crumbled
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Then, add the diced zucchinis, salt, and pepper, and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Chickpeas and Seasonings

Stir in the drained chickpeas and dried oregano. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to heat through and the zucchini to caramelize slightly.

Incorporate Feta

Reduce heat to low and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Make sure to mix gently to combine, letting the feta warm and soften in the skillet.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, nutritious Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate your favorite spices or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them correctly can extend their lifespan. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat to warm it through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. You could also microwave it, but be sure to cover it and stir occasionally to heat evenly without overcooking.

While this dish is best enjoyed freshly made, if you want to prepare it in advance, consider cooking only the base—zucchini and chickpea mixture—without adding feta. It can be stored in the fridge and heated just before serving, at which point you can fold in the feta for a fresh taste. This allows you to maintain the creamy texture of the cheese and prevents it from becoming overly salty.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet can be as versatile as the ingredients themselves. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal, but for a lighter option, serve it over a bed of spinach or mixed greens. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top can brighten the flavors even further, adding a zesty contrast to the savory feta.

For a heartier dinner, consider pairing it with whole grain rice or quinoa, which can absorb the flavors beautifully. Top the dish with additional fresh herbs like dill or basil for added complexity. Experimenting with different herbs can create entirely new flavor profiles, giving this dish endless possibilities for variation even within the same week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this skillet vegan?

Yes! You can simply omit the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat before serving.