Name: Marry Me Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 0.33 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 0.75 cup vegetable broth; 0.75 cup coconut cream; 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.25 cup vegan Parmesan-style cheese; 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped

I love making Marry Me Chickpeas when I want a cozy, flavorful dish that feels indulgent but is completely plant-based. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with bold flavor, with tender chickpeas simmered in a rich sauce that feels comforting and special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it comes together quickly and tastes like something I’d order at a restaurant. The sauce is luscious and deeply flavorful, the chickpeas are hearty and satisfying, and everything pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. I also enjoy how it feels impressive while staying simple. Marry Me Chickpeas

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
onion
garlic
sun-dried tomatoes
chickpeas
tomato paste
vegetable broth
heavy cream or coconut cream
red pepper flakes
dried oregano
salt
black pepper
Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative
fresh basil

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

I add the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring until everything is well combined and aromatic. I pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer for a few minutes to build flavor.

I stir in the chickpeas, cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. I lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently until the sauce thickens and coats the chickpeas.

I finish by stirring in grated Parmesan and fresh basil. I taste and adjust seasoning, then serve warm.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra greens. When I want extra richness, I add a small knob of butter or more cheese. I also enjoy adding mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra depth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the chickpeas gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Marry Me Chickpeas

FAQs

Is this dish spicy?

I find it mildly warm, but I adjust the red pepper flakes depending on how much heat I want.

Can I make this vegan?

I make it vegan by using coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?

I love serving it over pasta, rice, or with toasted bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I use dried chickpeas?

I use cooked dried chickpeas, but canned chickpeas work best for convenience.

Does this freeze well?

I freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months and reheat gently.

Conclusion

I keep Marry Me Chickpeas in my rotation because it’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor with minimal effort. Every time I make it, it feels like the kind of dish that wins hearts with just one bite.