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, chopped; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cans chickpeas (15 oz each), drained; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Published: April 28, 2025

by Nora

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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. This dish is not only quick to make but also incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for a cozy date night or any weeknight dinner. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delightful meal that can impress guests or bring warmth to your family table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The creamy tomato sauce combined with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread, this recipe adapts easily to various occasions.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and healthy fats from cream and butter, it’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Vegetarian Delight: A great option for meatless meals without sacrificing flavor or heartiness.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Marry Me Chickpeas, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

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: This tool allows for even cooking and enough space to combine all ingredients efficiently.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of ingredients in your dish.

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 everything until well combined for a creamy texture.

Step 4: Serve

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

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are a delightful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner or hosting friends, these chickpeas will impress everyone at the table.

With Crusty Bread

Sourdough Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, sourdough adds a tangy flavor.
Garlic Bread: Adds a delicious garlicky crunch that pairs wonderfully with the chickpeas.
Flatbreads: Soft and warm flatbreads can scoop up the chickpeas effortlessly.

Over Rice or Quinoa

Cilantro Lime Rice: The fresh flavors of cilantro and lime enhance the dish beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed option complements the chickpeas’ richness while adding a nutty taste.

As Part of a Salad

Mixed Green Salad: Toss with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Mediterranean Salad: Combine with olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes for an Italian-inspired treat.

In Tacos

Chickpea Tacos: Use soft tortillas to create unique tacos filled with Marry Me Chickpeas, topped with avocado and salsa.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To make your Marry Me Chickpeas even more delightful, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

Bold Flavors: Increase the amount of garlic or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor and texture.
Adjust Creaminess: Substitute some heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
Garnish Generously: Fresh basil not only enhances flavor but also adds color to your dish.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chickpeas can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this creamy dish well.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender, adding color and nutrients.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons brings a classic touch.
Italian Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with herbs provides a pleasant texture contrast.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they soak up any leftover sauce beautifully.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes offer a comforting base for serving your chickpeas atop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Marry Me Chickpeas, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the dish properly. Make sure to add salt and spices in every step for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 2 minutes, to keep that delicious taste.
Not draining the chickpeas: Leaving excess liquid from canned chickpeas can make your dish watery. Always drain and rinse them before use for the best texture.
Using low-quality tomatoes: The flavor of your Marry Me Chickpeas largely depends on the quality of sun-dried tomatoes. Opt for good-quality ones for a richer taste.
Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness and depth. Don’t skip this ingredient; it elevates the entire dish.
Rushing the cooking time: Allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes helps meld flavors together. Patience is key for achieving delicious results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Marry Me Chickpeas in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Marry Me Chickpeas vegan?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for added flavor.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

Pair this dish with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. A side salad also complements it well.

How do I ensure my Marry Me Chickpeas have great flavor?

Seasoning is important! Be generous with your spices and use high-quality ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.

Can Marry Me Chickpeas be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What are some variations I can try?

You could add spinach for extra nutrients or replace chickpeas with white beans for a different texture. Feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. This dish offers versatility—you can customize it with different spices or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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