Marry Me Chickpeas

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Marry Me Chickpeas recipe has stolen my heart and I just know it will capture yours too. It’s like giving a warm hug to your taste buds! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is perfect for every occasion. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful, vegan twist on the famous Marry Me Chicken that everyone is raving about.

What makes this recipe so special? It combines wholesome ingredients into a creamy, comforting dish that feels indulgent yet light. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even those new to cooking can feel like culinary pros!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when time is tight.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chickpeas creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this hearty meal! It’s packed with nutrients and deliciousness that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with crusty bread, over pasta, or even on baked sweet potatoes for an exciting twist every time.
• Make Ahead: Prep it in advance for an effortless dinner option during busy weeks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Marry Me Chickpeas! Each one contributes its own unique flavor and texture, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chickpeas

• (2) 15-ounce cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For the Creaminess

• 1 cup vegan cream (See Notes)

For the Greens

• 2 cups baby spinach (sliced)
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Optional Topping

• 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese (I used Violife)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more red chili flakes or even some diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Change the Creaminess: Swap out the vegan cream for coconut milk for a slight tropical twist!
• Protein Boost: Add some cooked lentils or quinoa to amp up the protein content while keeping it plant-based.

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large sauté pan over low-medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently. This step is crucial because sautéing garlic brings out its amazing aroma and flavor.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute. Letting these ingredients mingle enhances their flavors and builds a delicious base for our chickpeas.

Step 3: Mix in Chickpeas and Broth

Now add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach. Stir well! Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This is where all those flavors come together beautifully. Cook for about 5 minutes until everything is warmed through and the spinach wilts down.

Step 4: Finish Off with Freshness

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves along with optional grated vegan parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over rice or pasta if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every last bite of this comforting meal!

This Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Chickpeas

Making Marry Me Chickpeas is a breeze, but these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to an even more irresistible level!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that dried garlic simply cannot match, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
• Customize your spice level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, start with half and add more only if desired.
• Experiment with cream alternatives: If you can’t find vegan cream, try coconut milk or cashew cream for a deliciously creamy texture that still respects the recipe’s vegan nature.
• Incorporate seasonal veggies: Feel free to toss in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers. This not only adds nutrition but also vibrancy to your meal.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are some fun and creative ways to present your Marry Me Chickpeas for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few torn basil leaves sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Chili flakes: For those who love a little heat, a sprinkle of extra chili flakes on top gives an inviting look and adds just the right kick.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing pairs wonderfully and balances the richness of the chickpeas.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables adds both color and nutrients, complementing the chickpeas beautifully.
• Garlic knots: These fluffy delights are fun to munch on while enjoying your main dish, making every meal feel special.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

Freezing

• Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also use the microwave; just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warm.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

What is Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas is a vegan twist on the popular Marry Me Chicken dish, featuring chickpeas in a creamy, flavor-packed sauce that is sure to impress!

How long does it take to make Marry Me Chickpeas?

This delightful recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for quick dinners or last-minute meal prep.

Can I customize my Marry Me Chickpeas?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to enhance this dish. It’s versatile and can be adjusted based on your personal taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Marry Me Chickpeas as much as I do! This dish not only delivers on flavor but also brings people together at the table. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to create delightful memories. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!