Marry Me Chickpeas

This Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a delightful, plant-based twist on the viral dish, Marry Me Chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this 15-minute meal is packed with flavor and nutrients. The creamy chickpeas, combined with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, create a comforting dish that will make you fall in love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread for dipping. It’s adaptable to any meal occasion!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with plant-based proteins from chickpeas and vitamins from spinach, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to vegans and those looking for meatless meals without compromising on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Marry Me Chickpeas, gather your essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A large sauté pan allows ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise amounts of spices and seasonings for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

This one-pan Marry Me Chickpeas recipe puts a vegan twist on the viral comfort food, Marry Me Chicken! Get ready to fall in love with this indulgent 15-minute meal.

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
• 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)

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil

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.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Now add the drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegan cream, and sliced spinach. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes until warm and the spinach has wilted. Taste your dish; feel free to add more salt or spices based on your preferences.

Step 4: Final Touches

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil. If using it, sprinkle grated vegan parmesan on top. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping or spooned over cooked rice or pasta. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chickpeas!

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a hearty meal or a light snack, there are plenty of serving options to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping, allowing you to savor every bit of the creamy sauce.

Over Rice

• Serve the chickpeas on a bed of cooked rice. The rice absorbs the flavors and adds a filling component to the meal.

Tossed with Pasta

• Mix the chickpeas with your favorite pasta for a satisfying and quick dinner option. It’s a great way to incorporate more protein into your meal.

On Top of Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Spoon the Marry Me Chickpeas over baked sweet potatoes for a nutritious and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas or flatbreads to create wraps filled with Marry Me Chickpeas and fresh veggies for an easy lunch or snack.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Combine with quinoa or farro along with some greens and roasted vegetables for a wholesome grain bowl that packs flavor and nutrients.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Chickpeas

To ensure your Marry Me Chickpeas turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, basil, and quality olive oil can greatly enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
• Adjust Seasonings – Don’t hesitate to tweak salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
• Experiment with Cream Alternatives – If vegan cream isn’t available, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream for a different twist.
• Add More Veggies – For added nutrition, consider including bell peppers or zucchini in the mix.
• Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh when the spinach is still vibrant and the flavors are at their peak.
• Garnish Creatively – Enhance presentation by garnishing with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic pairing that enhances the meal’s comfort food vibe; perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition while providing a satisfying crunch.
3. Simple Green Salad – A light salad made with mixed greens balances out the richness of the chickpeas.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for an excellent base that complements chickpeas well.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges – These add texture and are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from the chickpeas.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli brings freshness and healthiness to your plate without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Chickpeas is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can make it even better.

• Overcooking the Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can lead to bitterness. Sauté it just until fragrant.
• Ignoring Seasoning Levels: Not adjusting the salt and spices can result in bland flavors. Always taste and customize.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a unique flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality canned chickpeas or broth can affect taste. Choose high-quality brands for the best results.
• Neglecting to Simmer: Skipping the simmer step means flavors won’t meld well. Let it simmer gently for a full 5 minutes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marry Me Chickpeas

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Marry Me Chickpeas.

What are Marry Me Chickpeas?

Marry Me Chickpeas are a vegan twist on the popular Marry Me Chicken dish, featuring chickpeas in a creamy sauce with Italian flavors.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Chickpeas?

This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option.

Can I customize Marry Me Chickpeas?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out chickpeas for other legumes if desired.

Are Marry Me Chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and cream alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chickpeas is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking while enjoying its rich, savory flavors. Try serving it with crusty bread or over rice for a delightful meal!