Name: Marry Me Chickpeas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
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

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to win hearts, look no further than Marry Me Chickpeas! This vegetarian twist on the beloved Marry Me Chicken combines the creamy decadence of an Italian-style tomato sauce with the hearty nutrition of chickpeas. Best of all, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night at home.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. You’ll love how the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and rich parmesan cheese meld together to create a sauce that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread or spoon it over pasta to complete the meal. This dish is a celebration of comfort food done right—and one bite might just make someone fall in love!

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sauté Pan or Large Pot: Essential for creating a flavorful base and simmering the dish.
Garlic Press or Knife: For finely mincing garlic, which is key to the flavor profile.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results.
Mixing Spoon: For stirring ingredients evenly.

Each tool plays a vital role in achieving the right balance of flavors and textures, so gather everything before you begin.

Preparation Tips

Prep all ingredients (mince garlic, chop sun-dried tomatoes, measure spices) before starting to cook. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
Use high-quality parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
Adjust spice levels to suit your preference—crushed red pepper flakes can be omitted for a milder dish.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to make Marry Me Chickpeas:

2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g): Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a bold, aromatic base to the dish.
½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes: Seasoning essentials for flavor depth.
¼ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped: For tangy, sweet notes.
1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL): Creates the sauce’s foundation.
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained (425 g each): Protein-packed main ingredient.
1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half): Gives the dish its signature creaminess.
½ cup grated parmesan: Salty, umami-rich flavor enhancer.
2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil: Bright, herbaceous garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

To make it vegan:
- Replace butter with olive oil.
- Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
For a gluten-free version:
- Ensure vegetable broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Flavor Base

Heat 2 Tbsp unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
Add 4 cloves minced garlic, ½ tsp each of salt, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper.
Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

2. Add Fillings

Stir in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 cup vegetable broth.
Add 2 cans of drained chickpeas and mix well.
Let the mixture cook uncovered on medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Finish the Dish

Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup grated parmesan, and 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil.
Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and creamy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping or over your favorite pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Garnish with extra parmesan or basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Make the most of Marry Me Chickpeas by pairing it with complementary sides or serving it in creative ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Crusty Bread: Use a rustic loaf or sourdough for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Pasta: Serve the chickpeas over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for a hearty meal.
Rice or Quinoa: A great gluten-free base to soak up the sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Roasted Vegetables: Add texture and variety by serving with roasted broccoli, zucchini, or carrots.
Flatbread or Naan: Scoop the chickpeas with warm, soft flatbread.
Grain Bowl: Layer the chickpeas over a grain of your choice and add toppings like roasted nuts or arugula.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Spoon the chickpeas into roasted bell peppers for a creative twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

To ensure success with Marry Me Chickpeas, watch out for these common pitfalls:

Burning the Garlic
- Garlic cooks quickly, so stir constantly and reduce the heat if needed.
- If it burns, start over to avoid a bitter taste.
Over-Seasoning or Under-Seasoning
- Adjust salt carefully, especially with salty ingredients like parmesan.
- Taste as you go to balance flavors.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients
- Opt for high-quality parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, more authentic taste.
- Fresh basil adds brightness—don’t skip it!
Cream Curdling
- Always remove the pan from heat before adding heavy cream to avoid curdling.
- Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Not Letting the Sauce Reduce
- Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for at least 5 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
Skipping the Basil Garnish
- Fresh basil provides a pop of color and a burst of freshness. It’s the finishing touch your dish needs.

By avoiding these mistakes and following the tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful dish every time.

Side Dish Recommendations

Pair Marry Me Chickpeas with these side dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

Garlic Bread: Classic and essential for sopping up the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing option to balance the richness of the dish.
Roasted Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance with a simple roasted vegetable.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly wilted spinach complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a comforting base for the chickpeas.
Bruschetta: A fresh appetizer of tomatoes and basil on toasted bread ties into the dish’s Italian-inspired flavors.
Caprese Salad: Mozzarella, tomato, and basil provide a cool and refreshing contrast.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

These sides bring variety and flavor to your table while ensuring Marry Me Chickpeas remains the star of the meal.

Recipe Tips

Elevate your Marry Me Chickpeas with these expert tips:

Enhance the Flavor
- Add a splash of white wine during the sautéing step for extra depth.
- Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
- Stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
Adjust the Creaminess
- Prefer a lighter dish? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- For a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Boost the Protein
- Toss in cooked lentils or cubes of tofu for added protein.
Customize the Spice Level
- If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- For a mild dish, reduce or omit the pepper flakes entirely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Enjoy Marry Me Chickpeas as leftovers by storing and reheating it properly:

Storage Tips
- Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
- From Frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave as mentioned above.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about Marry Me Chickpeas:

How can I make this vegan?
- Use plant-based butter or olive oil, coconut cream or cashew cream for heavy cream, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chickpeas?
- Yes! Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat as needed.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
- The stovetop is the best option to retain the creamy consistency. Add a splash of liquid to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated flavor. If using fresh, roast or sauté them first to enhance their sweetness and depth.
What’s a good substitute for parmesan cheese?
- Grated Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) works well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare the dish, cool it, and store it. Reheat on the stovetop before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use other legumes instead of chickpeas?
- White beans, like cannellini or navy beans, are a great substitute.
What’s the origin of Marry Me Chickpeas?
- It’s a vegetarian adaptation of the popular “Marry Me Chicken,” known for its creamy, tomato-based sauce.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chickpeas is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, savory sauce paired with hearty chickpeas makes it a standout meal for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Pair it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Who knows? This dish might just become your go-to for winning hearts!

Pin Recipe Print Recipe