Marry Me Chickpeas

Name: Marry Me Chickpeas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g); 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped; 1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL); 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained (425 g each); 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half); ½ cup grated parmesan; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: May 9, 2025

by Sofia

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Win hearts and prepare to fall in love with this vegetarian twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken! Marry Me Chickpeas feature a creamy Italian-style tomato sauce paired with nutritious chickpeas. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy date night or any weeknight dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Flavorful Comfort: The creamy tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs offers a warm, comforting taste that everyone will adore.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Nutritious Ingredients: With chickpeas as the star ingredient, this recipe is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring a wholesome dining experience.
Vegetarian-Friendly: A delightful option for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure you can whip up your Marry Me Chickpeas without any hiccups.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large sauté pan or pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

Large sauté pan or pot: Ideal for cooking the chickpeas evenly while allowing room for stirring.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes
¼ tsp ground black pepper
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL)

For the Chickpeas

2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained (425 g each)
1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half)
½ cup grated parmesan
2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Heat the butter in a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Add Fillings

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas. Let the mixture cook uncovered on medium heat for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and fresh basil. Mix until everything is well combined for a creamy texture.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chickpeas!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This creamy, flavor-packed meal is perfect for cozy dinners or as a centerpiece for gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

Enjoy the rich sauce by dipping slices of toasted crusty bread into the creamy mixture.

Over Pasta

Serve Marry Me Chickpeas over a bed of al dente pasta for a filling and satisfying meal.

As a Salad Topping

Add Marry Me Chickpeas on top of fresh greens to create a hearty salad that’s both nutritious and delicious.

In a Wrap

Use tortillas or pita bread to wrap the chickpeas with your favorite veggies for an easy lunch option.

With Rice

Pair this dish with fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce and make it even more filling.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To ensure your Marry Me Chickpeas turn out perfectly each time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor impact.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Simmer Longer: Letting the dish simmer longer allows flavors to develop, making it even tastier.
Garnish Generously: Top with extra basil or parmesan just before serving for added freshness and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that balances the creamy chickpeas.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings color and extra nutrients to your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing side that contrasts nicely.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus provides a tasty, slightly charred flavor that pairs well.
Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs is an aromatic side that complements this dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Chickpeas is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds depth to the flavor. Always include fresh minced garlic for the best taste.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your sun-dried tomatoes and cream matters. Opt for good-quality products to enhance the dish.
Overcooking Chickpeas: Cooking chickpeas too long can make them mushy. Only heat until warmed through to maintain their texture.
Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil brightens up the dish. Don’t skip it—add it at the end for maximum flavor.
Ignoring Serving Suggestions: Serving with crusty bread enhances the experience. Always pair it with something delicious for dipping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot throughout.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas are a vegetarian dish inspired by Marry Me Chicken, featuring chickpeas in a creamy tomato sauce that’s quick and tasty.

Can I make Marry Me Chickpeas vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan version.

How can I customize my Marry Me Chickpeas?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute chickpeas with white beans for variety.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

Serve this dish with crusty bread, pasta, or over rice as a hearty meal that complements its creamy flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust cooking times slightly if using a larger pot, ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. This dish is perfect for date nights or weeknight dinners. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and vegetables to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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