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

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If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and vegetarian dinner idea, Marry Me Chickpeas is here to sweep you off your feet! This dish is a vegetarian spin on the ever-popular Marry Me Chicken, featuring tender chickpeas simmered in a luxurious, creamy, and flavorful Italian-inspired tomato sauce.

Not only is this recipe packed with bold flavors like garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, but it also comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and convenience, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser for vegetarian guests.

Whether you’re dipping crusty bread into the velvety sauce or serving it over pasta, this dish guarantees love at first bite. Get ready to fall head over heels for Marry Me Chickpeas!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy schedules.
Vegetarian Comfort Food: Creamy and satisfying without the need for meat.
Versatile: Serve it with bread, pasta, rice, or even quinoa for endless meal options.
Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan create a rich, Italian-inspired taste.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Large sauté pan or skillet: To cook the sauce evenly and hold all ingredients.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without damaging your cookware.
Garlic press or chef’s knife: To mince the garlic finely.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure perfect ingredient ratios.
Cutting board: For chopping sun-dried tomatoes and basil.

Preparation Tips:

Prep all ingredients before starting to cook. This recipe moves quickly, so having everything ready ensures smooth cooking.
Use high-quality parmesan and fresh basil for the best flavor.
If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them slightly but reserve some oil for added flavor.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for dietary preferences.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained (425 g each)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL)
1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream)

Seasonings:

½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes
¼ tsp ground black pepper

Garnish:

½ cup grated parmesan
2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Flavor Base:
- Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Stir frequently and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Add the Fillings:
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and drained chickpeas.
- Let the mixture cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
Finish the Dish:
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Serve:
- Serve warm with crusty bread, over pasta, or with a side of rice.
- Garnish with extra parmesan and basil if desired. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for added nutrition.
Customize the Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes to adjust the spice level to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Marry Me Chickpeas is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve this creamy, flavorful dish to make it shine. Here are some great serving ideas to complement the dish:

Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta to soak up the rich, velvety sauce.
Over Pasta: Serve the chickpeas over cooked spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for an Italian-inspired dinner.
With Rice: Use white, brown, or even basmati rice for a hearty base.
Quinoa or Couscous: Add a healthy twist by serving over quinoa or fluffy couscous.
Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the chickpeas over creamy mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort food.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve over spiralized zucchini noodles.
Grain Bowls: Add Marry Me Chickpeas to a bowl of grains like farro or barley, paired with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
With Polenta: Pair with creamy or crispy polenta for a traditional Italian combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & Recipe Perfection Tips

To ensure your Marry Me Chickpeas turn out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

Burning the Garlic:
- Cooking garlic on high heat can cause it to burn, resulting in a bitter taste. Always cook it over medium heat and stir constantly.
Skipping Ingredient Prep:
- The recipe moves quickly, so have all your ingredients measured, chopped, and ready before starting.
Overcooking the Sauce:
- Once the cream and parmesan are added, avoid overcooking the sauce as it may separate or become too thick.
Using Canned Chickpeas Without Rinsing:
- Rinse and drain canned chickpeas to remove excess salt and improve the dish’s flavor.
Choosing Low-Quality Parmesan:
- Opt for freshly grated, high-quality parmesan cheese for the best results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Not Tasting and Adjusting Seasoning:
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and spice levels to your preference.
Overlooking Garnishes:
- Fresh basil and extra parmesan elevate the flavor and presentation. Don’t skip them!
Not Letting Flavors Meld:
- Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to develop its full depth of flavor before serving.

Side Dish Recommendations

To create a well-rounded meal, pair your Marry Me Chickpeas with one (or more) of these delicious side dishes:

Garlic Bread:
- A classic choice. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad:
- Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chickpea dish.
Roasted Asparagus:
- Oven-roasted asparagus with a touch of olive oil and salt adds a light and elegant side.
Creamy Polenta:
- Serve the chickpeas over creamy polenta for a comforting Italian pairing.
Italian-Style Roasted Vegetables:
- Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and roast until caramelized.
Bruschetta:
- Top toasted baguette slices with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil for a complementary starter.
Arugula and Lemon Salad:
- A simple salad with peppery arugula, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil helps balance the meal.
Mashed Potatoes:
- Rich, creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the sauce, adding a decadent twist to the dish.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

To make the most out of your Marry Me Chickpeas, follow these expert tips:

Simmer for Depth of Flavor:
Allow the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes (before adding cream) to intensify the flavors.
Balance the Creaminess:
If the sauce feels too thick, thin it out with a splash of vegetable broth or cream. Conversely, let it cook a bit longer if it’s too thin.
Fresh Basil is Key:
Use fresh basil rather than dried for that signature Italian aroma and taste.
Customize the Spice Level:
Increase or decrease the red pepper flakes depending on how much heat you prefer.
Make it Dairy-Free:
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
Add Greens for Nutrition:
Toss in fresh spinach, kale, or even arugula at the end of cooking for extra nutrients and flavor.
Enhance with Protein:
For a more filling meal, add tofu cubes or roasted chickpeas for texture and additional protein.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing the Sauce:

You can freeze Marry Me Chickpeas without the cream. Prepare the base with chickpeas, tomatoes, and broth, and freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When reheating, thaw the sauce, warm it on the stovetop, and add cream and parmesan just before serving.

Reheating Instructions:

On the Stovetop: Place leftovers in a saucepan and warm on low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency.
In the Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and parmesan with nutritional yeast. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Use about 3 cups of cooked chickpeas as a substitute for the canned ones.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try substituting with canned roasted red peppers or diced fresh tomatoes. The flavor will vary slightly but still be delicious.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Marry Me Chickpeas is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your sides (like bread or pasta) are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, but freeze the base without the cream, as dairy can separate when thawed. Add the cream and parmesan after reheating.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water as a substitute, but consider adding a bouillon cube or extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How can I make the dish more filling?
Serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa, or stir in cooked lentils, tofu, or tempeh for additional protein.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cream and parmesan, then refrigerate. Reheat, add the cream and cheese, and serve.
What’s the best way to serve this to kids?
Reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version and serve with pasta or rice for a kid-friendly meal.
How can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Stir in sautéed mushrooms, roasted zucchini, or chopped spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chickpeas is a versatile, comforting, and quick-to-make dish that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Its creamy, Italian-inspired flavors make it the perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread, pasta, or mashed potatoes, this recipe guarantees satisfaction and smiles at the dinner table. With easy storage options and endless customization possibilities, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to.

Give this irresistible recipe a try, and let it work its magic—one bite at a time! ❤️

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