How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Stew

Name: Air Fryer One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 36 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 3/4 cup vegetable broth; 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished May 11, 2026 | Updated Jun 18, 2026

A wholesome, easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired stew featuring chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, and warm spices, all prepared effortlessly in your air fryer.

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Air fryerMediterraneanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time26 mins

Total Time36 mins

Servings4

Temperature350°F / 175°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup vegetable broth
4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
In an air fryer-safe, heatproof casserole dish or skillet that fits inside your air fryer basket, combine olive oil, chopped onion, and diced red bell pepper.
Place the dish inside the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the onion and pepper soften.
Remove the dish carefully and stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Return the dish to the air fryer and cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices and soften the garlic.
Add diced tomatoes with their juices, chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the dish. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Place the dish back into the air fryer and cook uncovered for 12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the stew thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Remove the dish from the air fryer. Season the stew with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Serve warm with crusty bread or over your favorite grain for a comforting meal.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the olive oil dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Stew ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.