Marry Me Chickpeas

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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream creates a rich sauce that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful appetizer.
• Nutrient-Packed: Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marry Me Chickpeas, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure everything goes smoothly while you cook.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan or pot: Provides enough space to cook all the ingredients evenly without crowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor in every batch.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp each salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

For the Sauce

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained (425 g each)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated parmesan

For Freshness

• 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, allowing the flavors to meld together.

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.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting friends or having a cozy dinner for two, these chickpeas can be the star of your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Dip it Up: Serve the chickpeas warm with slices of crusty bread for a delicious dipping experience. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the bread.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Hearty Base: Spoon the chickpeas over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a satisfying main course. This adds an extra layer of texture and nutrition.

As a Pasta Sauce

• Pasta Delight: Toss the chickpeas with your favorite pasta for a hearty vegetarian meal. The creamy sauce will coat the noodles beautifully.

With Fresh Salad

• Bright and Fresh: Pair Marry Me Chickpeas with a light, fresh salad. The crispness of greens balances the rich flavors of the dish.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Colorful Plate: Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Colorful veggies add nutrients and visual appeal.

On Toast

• Chickpea Toast: For a trendy twist, serve Marry Me Chickpeas on toasted sourdough or whole-grain bread. It’s perfect for brunch or a light lunch.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To make your Marry Me Chickpeas even more delicious, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance flavors and ensure you achieve the perfect texture every time you make this dish.

• Bold Seasonings: Adjust the spices to your taste. More crushed red pepper flakes will add heat, while additional herbs can deepen flavor.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a richer taste. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.
• Cream Alternatives: For lighter options, consider substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain creaminess without added calories.
• Cook Gently: Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling. Stir gently over low heat for best results.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Top with extra grated parmesan or fresh herbs just before serving for an appealing presentation.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chickpea mix ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat before serving for quick meals.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas are rich and creamy, making them great paired with lighter side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside this dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is wonderful for mopping up any remaining sauce from your plate.
2. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to balance out the creamy chickpeas.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients and color without overshadowing the main dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus spears seasoned with lemon juice create a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs is refreshing and complements the rich chickpea sauce well.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb option that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce while adding extra veggies to your meal.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A healthy alternative to grains, cauliflower rice soaks up flavors beautifully while keeping things light.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory chickpeas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Marry Me Chickpeas. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland chickpeas. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality sun-dried tomatoes can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality or store-bought brands.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Taking shortcuts might compromise flavor. Allow the ingredients to simmer together for a few minutes to enhance their flavors.
• Ignoring Consistency: Not adjusting the cream can result in a too-thick or too-thin sauce. Gradually add heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas are a vegetarian dish featuring chickpeas cooked in a creamy Italian-style tomato sauce, perfect for quick meals.

Can I make Marry Me Chickpeas vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream alternative.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

These chickpeas pair well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Marry Me Chickpeas?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Marry Me Chickpeas?

This dish is quick and easy, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas are not only delicious but also versatile and quick to prepare. This recipe is perfect for date nights or just a cozy family dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices! Give it a try and fall in love with this delightful dish.