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; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

Published: May 31, 2025

by Sabrina

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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 recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Flavorful Base: A rich blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates ordinary chickpeas into something extraordinary.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a hearty side; Marry Me Chickpeas fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only tasty but also healthy, making it ideal for various dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment can make all the difference when preparing Marry Me Chickpeas.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Large sauté pan or pot: Provides ample space to cook the chickpeas and sauce evenly without overcrowding, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware while ensuring everything mixes well.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in achieving the perfect balance of flavors in this recipe.

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

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 and creamy.

Step 4: Serve

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

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a casual family meal, these chickpeas can elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty sourdough or a fresh baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Over Rice

Steamed Rice: Place the chickpeas over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. Brown rice adds extra fiber and flavor.

On Pasta

Pasta Base: Toss the chickpeas with your favorite pasta, like penne or fettuccine. This creates a filling and satisfying dish.

As a Salad Topper

Green Salad: Use Marry Me Chickpeas as a protein-rich topping for mixed greens. Add cucumber and cherry tomatoes for freshness.

In Tacos

Chickpea Tacos: Create fun tacos by stuffing tortillas with chickpeas, avocado, and salsa for a twist on traditional tacos.

With Roasted Vegetables

Veggie Side: Pair the dish with roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To make your Marry Me Chickpeas even more delicious, consider these tips to enhance flavor and presentation.

Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil at the end brightens flavors and adds color.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify crushed red pepper flakes based on your taste preference. You can add more for extra heat!
Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for unique tastes.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate spinach or kale while cooking to boost nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy while warm to appreciate the creamy texture and rich flavors fully.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Pairing sides can enhance the flavors of Marry Me Chickpeas. Here are some delicious side dishes to consider.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce; just spread garlic butter on baguette slices and toast until golden.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the chickpeas with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a fresh crunch that balances well with creamy dishes.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf offers a wholesome grain option that pairs beautifully with chickpeas.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy chickpeas.
Mediterranean Couscous: Flavored couscous loaded with olives, tomatoes, and herbs makes an excellent side full of Mediterranean flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Marry Me Chickpeas can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin this delightful dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overcooking Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can lead to bitterness. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 2 minutes, to keep the flavor fresh.
Ignoring the Cream: Skipping heavy cream or using a low-fat alternative may alter the dish’s richness. Stick with heavy cream for the best texture and taste.
Not Draining Chickpeas: Failing to drain the chickpeas properly can make your dish watery. Always rinse and drain them well for optimal consistency.
Skipping Fresh Basil: Omitting fresh basil will lessen the flavor profile of Marry Me Chickpeas. Always add it right before serving for a burst of freshness.
Using Low-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Cheap sun-dried tomatoes can lack flavor. Invest in quality ones for a richer, more satisfying sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Label containers with date for easy identification later.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas are a vegetarian version of the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe, featuring creamy tomato sauce and hearty chickpeas.

Can I make Marry Me Chickpeas vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.

How do I spice up my Marry Me Chickpeas?

For extra flavor, add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some spinach or kale during cooking.

How do I serve Marry Me Chickpeas?

Serve warm with crusty bread or over pasta or rice for a delicious meal option that’s filling and comforting.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas offer a delightful twist on classic flavors while being quick and easy to prepare. This versatile dish is perfect for cozy date nights or weeknight dinners alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!

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