Introduction

This Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines tender broccoli and creamy chickpeas with a crispy buttery cracker topping. It’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

10 oz. broccoli, cut into 1″ florets
1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1 Tbsp. plus 1/2 cup water, divided
5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
10 Ritz crackers
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
2 (14.5-oz.) cans chickpeas, drained, rinsed
1/8 tsp. baking soda
4 oz. cheddar, shredded (about 1 cup)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium heatproof bowl, season broccoli with 1/4 tsp. salt. Pour 1 Tbsp. water over broccoli, then cover and microwave for 1 minute. Stir and continue microwaving in 30-second increments until broccoli is bright green and fork-tender, about 30 seconds to 1 minute more. Uncover and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 Tbsp. butter. Crush crackers into the skillet, allowing a mix of larger and smaller crumbs. Cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and toasty smelling, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer crackers to a small bowl and wipe out the skillet.
Step 3: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 4 Tbsp. butter. Add onion and season with 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender and sweet, about 7 to 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Stir in flour and cook, stirring with a spatula, until a bubbling paste forms on the bottom of the skillet, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Switch to a whisk and slowly whisk in the milk and remaining 1/2 cup water until fully incorporated. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add chickpeas and baking soda; cook, stirring, until heated through, about 1 minute. Gently fold in the broccoli.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low and fold in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Taste and season with the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt, if needed.
Step 6: Top the skillet dish with the buttery cracker crumbs and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the cracker crumbs a little longer but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor or mix in a bit of smoked cheese for depth.
Swap broccoli with cauliflower or add sautéed mushrooms for a different vegetable twist.
Use low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter sauce, though whole milk provides creamier results.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. The cracker topping will lose its crispness but remains tasty.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh chickpeas. Just be sure they are well cooked and drained before adding them to the skillet.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the broccoli and the cracker topping may change. It’s best to freeze the main cheesy chickpea mixture without the cracker topping and add fresh crumbs when reheating.