Marry Me Chickpeas is a delicious, vegetarian twist on the beloved “Marry Me Chicken” recipe that took the culinary world by storm. Traditionally, Marry Me Chicken features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce infused with garlic, basil, and parmesan. This vegetarian version swaps the chicken for hearty chickpeas, offering a protein-packed, plant-based alternative without sacrificing the indulgent flavors that made the original so popular.
This dish is perfect for vegetarians, flexitarians, or anyone looking to incorporate more meatless meals into their rotation. The name itself—Marry Me Chickpeas—hints at just how irresistible the creamy sauce is, with the kind of rich, comforting taste that could charm anyone at the dinner table.
Whether you’re cooking a romantic dinner for two, hosting vegetarian guests, or simply craving a hearty yet easy meal, Marry Me Chickpeas delivers on all fronts. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or even rice, making it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and savory all at once.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Everything comes together in a single pan, making cleanup quick and easy.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Highly Adaptable: Add greens, swap out the chickpeas, or make it vegan with simple substitutions.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Elegant enough for date night but simple enough for a weekday meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make Marry Me Chickpeas, you’ll need:
- Large sauté pan or skillet
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Garlic press (optional)
These tools ensure the garlic sautés evenly, the sauce reduces properly, and the chickpeas heat through without sticking. A heavy-bottomed pan works best for even heat distribution.
Preparation Tips
- Pre-Measure Ingredients: Having everything chopped and ready speeds up the cooking process.
- Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Their concentrated flavor is crucial for the sauce.
- Finely Mince Garlic: This allows it to blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
- Room Temperature Cream: Cold cream can cause the sauce to split when added to hot ingredients.
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Optional Add-Ins
- Baby spinach or kale
- Cannellini beans instead of chickpeas
- Vegan swaps: plant-based butter, coconut cream, nutritional yeast instead of parmesan
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic:
Heat the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir frequently and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. - Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Broth, and Chickpeas:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and drained chickpeas. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly. - Incorporate Cream and Parmesan:
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until fully combined. The sauce should become smooth and creamy. - Finish with Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes. - Serve Immediately:
Transfer to a serving dish and pair with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up the sauce.
Quick Tip
For extra greens, stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking. The heat will wilt the spinach perfectly without overcooking it.
Serving Suggestions
Marry Me Chickpeas offers incredible versatility when it comes to serving options. The creamy, garlicky sauce begs for something to soak it up, and the hearty chickpeas make it satisfying enough to stand alone. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal or serving it as part of a larger spread, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish.
Classic Pairings
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Perhaps the most traditional choice, a warm loaf of rustic bread is ideal for mopping up the creamy sauce.
- Garlic Bread: For extra flavor, pair Marry Me Chickpeas with buttery garlic bread.
- Over Pasta: Spoon the creamy chickpeas over a bowl of penne, fettuccine, or orzo for a heartier, pasta-based meal.
- On Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a wholesome grain pairing.
- With Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a soft, comforting base for the rich sauce.
- In a Bowl with Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra vegetables and textures.
- Alongside a Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
- Stuffed in Pita or Flatbread: Spoon the chickpeas into warm pita for a fun handheld meal.
8 Side Dish Recommendations
Pairing Marry Me Chickpeas with complementary side dishes elevates the meal and brings more variety to the table. Here are some excellent side options:
- Lemon Herb Couscous: The light, citrusy flavors contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted until slightly crisp, broccoli adds color and texture to your plate.
- Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Bright, fresh tomatoes and basil echo the flavors in the chickpeas, creating a cohesive meal.
- Italian Chopped Salad: A crisp salad with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness.
- Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Slightly sweet and tangy, they offer a bold contrast to the savory sauce.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears provide a fresh, earthy counterpoint.
- Creamy Cucumber Salad: With yogurt and fresh dill, this cool side helps offset the dish’s warmth and spice.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the savory parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Marry Me Chickpeas is a fairly simple recipe, a few common mistakes can compromise the final result. By avoiding these errors, you can ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.
Using Low-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes
The sun-dried tomatoes are a key source of flavor in this dish, so opting for low-quality or flavorless ones can leave the sauce flat. Choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and richness.
Overcooking the Garlic
Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic turns bitter and can overpower the dish, so keep a close eye on the pan.
Adding Cream Over High Heat
Dairy can separate if added to very hot liquid. For the smoothest sauce, remove the pan from heat before adding the cream.
Skipping the Fresh Basil
Fresh basil adds bright, herbal notes that balance the rich sauce. Dried basil won’t have the same effect, so try not to skip this step.
Not Draining Chickpeas Well
Rinsed and drained chickpeas ensure the sauce isn’t watered down. Excess liquid from the cans can affect the sauce’s consistency and flavor.
Using Pre-Grated Parmesan
Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect how smoothly it melts into the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan not only tastes better but also melts perfectly.
Skipping Taste Adjustments
The seasoning balance can shift based on the saltiness of your broth, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
How to Perfect Your Marry Me Chickpeas
- Use high-quality ingredients, especially for the sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and broth.
- Balance creamy and tangy flavors by adjusting the amount of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan.
- Garnish with extra basil or grated parmesan just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.
- Customize the spice level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.
- Add extra vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or zucchini, for a more nutrient-dense meal.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
Expert Tips for Success
Perfecting Marry Me Chickpeas is all about balancing flavors, textures, and timing. Follow these expert tips to get the most out of this simple yet indulgent dish.
Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes
The sun-dried tomatoes are the backbone of the sauce, delivering deep umami flavor with a touch of tanginess. Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes rather than dry ones, as they provide richer flavor and a better texture.
Toast Garlic Gently
Toasting garlic in butter releases its natural sweetness and aroma. Avoid high heat, which can cause garlic to burn quickly. Burnt garlic will turn bitter and overpower the dish.
Warm Chickpeas Before Adding Cream
Cold chickpeas can lower the temperature of the sauce, making it harder for the cheese to melt evenly. Let the chickpeas warm up in the broth before adding cream to maintain smooth consistency.
Add Cream Off Heat
For the smoothest sauce, always stir in cream after removing the pan from heat. Direct heat can cause dairy to curdle, especially if the sauce reduces too much.
Fresh Parmesan Only
Skip the pre-grated parmesan and grate fresh cheese instead. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated parmesan adds authentic flavor and blends seamlessly.
Customize Heat and Seasoning
The crushed red pepper flakes bring a mild heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level. Add a pinch more if you like a bit of kick or scale back if you prefer it mild. Taste your sauce before serving to fine-tune the salt and pepper.
Finish with Fresh Basil
Fresh basil adds essential brightness that balances the rich cream sauce. Stir some into the sauce and sprinkle a little extra on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Store Marry Me Chickpeas in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Avoid freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate and change texture when thawed.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.
- Stir frequently to ensure even reheating and prevent sticking.
- Avoid boiling the sauce, which can cause it to split.
Meal Prep Option
- Marry Me Chickpeas can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge.
- For meal prep, store the sauce separately from bread or sides to prevent sogginess.
- You can also make the sauce in advance and stir in freshly warmed chickpeas before serving for the best texture.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Marry Me Chickpeas?
Marry Me Chickpeas is a vegetarian spin on the popular Marry Me Chicken. It features tender chickpeas cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce infused with garlic, parmesan, and basil.
Can I Make It Vegan?
Yes. Replace the butter with vegan butter, the heavy cream with coconut cream, and the parmesan with nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based parmesan.
What Should I Serve With It?
Marry Me Chickpeas pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, pasta, rice, quinoa, or polenta. It also works well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Absolutely. Spinach, kale, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions and blend well with the sauce.
How Spicy Is It?
The dish has a mild heat from the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can increase or decrease the amount based on your taste.
How Long Does It Keep?
Stored properly, Marry Me Chickpeas lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I Use Cannellini Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Yes. Cannellini beans offer a slightly creamier texture but work beautifully with the sauce.
Is It Gluten-Free?
Yes, the dish itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free bread, pasta, or grains if needed.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Easily. Use a larger pan to ensure even cooking, especially when doubling the sauce.
What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?
If the sauce thickens too much while reheating, add a small splash of broth or cream to loosen it. Stir well to incorporate.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chickpeas is a comforting, creamy vegetarian dish that captures all the indulgent flavors of the viral Marry Me Chicken—without the meat. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, cream, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful sauce that clings to tender chickpeas, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
This dish is ideal for vegetarians, but even meat-eaters will appreciate its bold flavors and satisfying texture. It works equally well for busy weeknights or romantic dinners, offering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
Serve Marry Me Chickpeas with warm bread, pasta, or your favorite side dishes to create a complete meal. It is a fantastic addition to any meal rotation, especially for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based dinners without sacrificing indulgence or flavor.
With just a few simple ingredients, one pan, and less than 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy vegetarian meal on the table. Whether you are new to meatless cooking or a seasoned vegetarian cook, Marry Me Chickpeas is a dish you will want to make again and again.
Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter 28 g
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp 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 cheese
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- 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.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas. Let the mixture cook uncovered on medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and fresh basil. Mix until fully combined.
- Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!
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