If you’ve never tried Marry Me Chickpeas, prepare to fall in love! This rich and creamy dish takes inspiration from the viral Marry Me Chicken recipe, swapping in protein-packed chickpeas and a luxurious sun-dried tomato cream sauce. The result? A plant-based meal so flavorful, you might just get a proposal after serving it!
What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to make. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in 25 minutes. Serve it with warm crusty bread, pasta, or a baked sweet potato to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce. Whether for a romantic dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is a guaranteed hit!
Full Recipe:
- 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
- (2) 15-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup vegan cream (cashew cream, coconut milk, or dairy-free half & half)
- 2 cups baby spinach, sliced
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a large sauté pan over low-medium heat, warm the olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and spinach. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce is warmed through and the spinach has wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt, black pepper, or chili flakes.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and grated vegan parmesan.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over rice, pasta, or baked sweet potatoes. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 294 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Marry Me Chickpeas: A Creamy, Dreamy Vegan Dish
Marry Me Chickpeas is a delightful plant-based twist on the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe. This dish features chickpeas simmered in a rich, creamy, and flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce, making it the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, experimenting with plant-based meals, or just looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, this recipe is sure to impress.
The name “Marry Me Chickpeas” comes from its irresistibly creamy texture and bold, savory flavors—so good that it might just inspire a marriage proposal! With a combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce, every bite is packed with deliciousness. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The Inspiration Behind Marry Me Chickpeas
The original “Marry Me Chicken” recipe became popular for its creamy, garlicky, and tomato-infused sauce that pairs beautifully with juicy chicken. However, this vegan version replaces the chicken with chickpeas, a protein-packed ingredient that absorbs flavors wonderfully while adding a hearty, satisfying texture.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a staple in many cuisines around the world, from Mediterranean hummus to Indian chana masala. They are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a great meat alternative in many dishes. In this recipe, they provide a firm texture and a neutral taste that allows the sauce to shine.
The creamy element in Marry Me Chickpeas comes from vegan cream alternatives such as cashew cream, coconut milk, or dairy-free half & half. These options create a rich and velvety consistency that perfectly coats the chickpeas and makes the dish ultra-satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This is a one-pan meal that takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
- Protein-Packed – Chickpeas provide a great source of plant-based protein, making this meal filling and nutritious.
- Rich and Creamy – The sauce is indulgent, smooth, and full of deep, savory flavors from the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings.
- Versatile – Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free – This dish is naturally free from gluten and dairy, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The Key Ingredients That Make This Dish Irresistible
- Chickpeas – These little legumes add a wonderful texture and protein boost. They soak up all the flavors from the sauce while maintaining their bite.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – They bring a deep, umami-packed tanginess that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Garlic – Essential for creating that rich and aromatic base that elevates the flavors.
- Vegan Cream – This can be homemade cashew cream, canned coconut milk, or a store-bought dairy-free alternative. It creates the velvety texture that makes the dish so indulgent.
- Herbs & Spices – Oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper work together to add depth and a hint of heat to balance out the creaminess.
- Fresh Basil – Stirred in at the end, basil adds a fresh and slightly sweet contrast to the bold flavors.
- Vegan Parmesan (Optional) – For an extra savory kick, a sprinkle of grated vegan parmesan ties everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
- With Crusty Bread – The sauce is rich and creamy, making it perfect for dipping with warm, crusty bread. This is a great option if you want a light yet satisfying meal.
- Over Pasta – Serve the chickpeas and sauce over a bowl of your favorite pasta, like linguine or fettuccine, for a restaurant-worthy meal.
- With Rice or Quinoa – For a heartier meal, serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- On Baked Potatoes – Pour the chickpeas and sauce over a baked sweet potato or regular potato for a creative twist.
- As a Side Dish – If you’re serving a larger meal, this dish works wonderfully as a side alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips for Making the Best Marry Me Chickpeas
- Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The depth of flavor in the sauce heavily depends on the quality of your sun-dried tomatoes. Look for ones packed in oil for the best texture and taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level – If you love a little heat, feel free to add more red chili flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount or leave them out.
- Thicken the Sauce if Needed – If your sauce is too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in at the end of cooking to help thicken it up.
- Make It Ahead – This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
- Customize the Creaminess – If you love an ultra-creamy sauce, use cashew cream. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for coconut milk or dairy-free half & half.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes! While chickpeas work best for texture, you can also use white beans like cannellini or great northern beans for a slightly creamier consistency.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors are rich but not overpowering, making it a great option for kids. You can reduce the spice level if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes! If you’re avoiding nuts, use coconut milk or a store-bought dairy-free creamer instead of cashew cream.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chickpeas is the ultimate plant-based comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers gourmet-level taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or a special date night, this dish is bound to impress.
With its rich, sun-dried tomato-infused cream sauce, hearty chickpeas, and aromatic herbs, every bite is a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, pairing well with pasta, rice, bread, or even baked potatoes.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to prepare but delivers maximum flavor, Marry Me Chickpeas is a must-try. Give it a go, and who knows—you might just get a marriage proposal after serving it!