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 (15oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals

I absolutely love making this Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet for a quick and healthy meal. It’s packed with flavors and comes together in just 30 minutes! The creamy feta pairs perfectly with the earthy chickpeas and fresh zucchini, creating a delightful medley that even picky eaters enjoy. I often customize it with additional herbs or spices, depending on what I have in the pantry, making it a flexible option for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:34:21.989Z

When I first tried this dish, I was surprised at how simple yet remarkable it tasted. The combination of zucchini and feta creates a creamy, savory base, while the chickpeas add a satisfying protein boost. I found that sautéing the zucchini until it's just tender keeps it vibrant and flavorful, rather than mushy. Don't skip the fresh herbs – they elevate the dish to a whole new level!

One of my favorite moments was when my friends tasted it and couldn't believe it was a healthy meal. We enjoyed the dish with a side of crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the delicious remnants! I recommend topping each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten it up. This has truly become a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Packed with protein and flavor that satisfies
Versatile enough to incorporate your favorite seasonings

Mastering the Skillet Technique

When sautéing the zucchini, it's essential to use a large skillet to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than browning, resulting in a less appealing texture. I recommend keeping the heat at medium to achieve that light golden color, which typically takes about 5 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the zucchini is tender but still has a slight crunch, as this is key to maintaining its freshness in the dish.

Incorporating the garlic is a small but crucial step; it adds depth and fragrance to the dish. Make sure to add the garlic after the zucchini has softened somewhat. Cooking it for just one minute will enhance its aroma without burning it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor that might overshadow the other ingredients, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.

Enhancing Flavor with Feta and Seasonings

Feta cheese not only adds creaminess but also enhances the dish with its tangy profile. Using a high-quality feta can make a noticeable difference in taste. If you're looking for a substitute, goat cheese can provide a similar creaminess and flavor, though the end dish will be a touch different. Add the feta after the skillet is removed from heat; this ensures that it retains its shape and doesn't melt into a paste.

Feel free to play with the seasonings. While dried oregano is a wonderful base, you could experiment with thyme or rosemary for different flavor notes. A dash of red pepper flakes can also introduce a gentle heat, making the dish more vibrant. I often adjust seasonings based on what I have at home, leading to unique variations each time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a deliciously healthy meal!

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 can (15oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy preparation:

Sauté Zucchini and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and sauté for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Chickpeas and Seasoning

Add the chickpeas, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and allow to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

Incorporate Feta

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese until well combined. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your healthy Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

This Zucchini Feta Chickpea Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. It’s fantastic when served with a crusty whole grain bread, which can soak up any extra juices, or on top of a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. Adding a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can also create a balanced dinner option that's both satisfying and nutrient-rich.

For a heartier twist, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or spinach directly into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only do they elevate the flavor, but they also add more color and additional nutrients, showcasing the dish's versatility. You can adjust portion sizes based on your taste, making it adaptable for both quick lunches and dinner gatherings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as they sit, which can make the leftovers even more delicious. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the zucchini, which can lead to a mushy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the dish. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. A splash of water added while reheating can help restore moisture and freshness to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the skillet.