Name: Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28 g); 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped; 1 cup vegetable broth (236 mL); 2 (15-oz) cans chickpeas, drained (425 g each); 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 7 reviews

If you are ready to experience a dish that captivates every sense, then you’re in for a treat with this Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe. This dish takes the charming concept of the classic Marry Me Chicken and spins it into a vegetarian wonder, overflowing with creamy, garlicky, and sun-dried tomato goodness. With tender chickpeas swimming in a luscious Italian-style sauce, this recipe is not only quick and easy to pull together, but it also feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Whether it’s date night, a cozy dinner, or you just want to impress yourself, this recipe promises a memorable meal full of flavor and comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny stainless steel pan filled with a mix of light beige chickpeas and small pieces of deep red sun-dried tomatoes, all sitting in a thin, orange-brown oily sauce. The chickpeas are round, smooth, and cover most of the pan's surface, while the sun-dried tomatoes add richer red patches scattered evenly throughout. The pan has a long handle extending out to the right, and the background is a white marbled surface covered by a blue and white mosaic pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the harmoniously rich, savory, and slightly spicy vibe of this dish, making the preparation straightforward and satisfying.

Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp): Adds a creamy richness that forms the foundation of the sauce.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
Salt, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (½ tsp each): Seasonings that bring Italian flair and a gentle kick.
Ground black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup, roughly chopped): Introduce a tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
Vegetable broth (1 cup): Provides a savory liquid base to meld the flavors beautifully.
Chickpeas (2 15-oz cans, drained): The hearty star ingredient, delivering protein and a satisfying bite.
Heavy cream (1 cup, or half-and-half to lighten): Creates the signature creamy texture that makes this dish addictive.
Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Lends salty, nutty notes that round out the flavor perfectly.
Fresh basil (2 Tbsp, chopped): A fresh herbal lift to brighten the creamy sauce.

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating the unsalted butter in a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic, salt, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Let this aromatic medley cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices bloom into the butter, creating a flavorful foundation that will carry the entire dish.

Step 2: Add the Heart of the Dish

Next, stir in the roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes, their sweet tanginess adding a burst of brightness. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained chickpeas. Allow everything to simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes, giving the chickpeas a chance to soak up all those gorgeous flavors while the sauce reduces slightly, becoming rich and concentrated.

Step 3: Finish With Creamy Goodness

Remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This step transforms the sauce into the irresistibly velvety Italian-style creaminess that defines the Marry Me Chickpeas. Finish by folding in the freshly chopped basil, releasing its fragrant oils and adding a freshness that elevates the entire dish.

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy chickpea stew sits on a white marbled surface. The stew has three main layers: at the bottom is a light orange creamy broth with specks of red pepper flakes, on top are whole pale yellow chickpeas, and scattered throughout are dark green leafy spinach and pieces of soft, cooked red tomatoes. A metal spoon rests inside the bowl on the left side. The broth looks thick and rich, coating the chickpeas and vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves right before serving gives a lovely visual pop and a hit of fresh and cheesy flavors that enhance the experience. A grind of fresh black pepper on top also adds a nice spice contrast.

Side Dishes

This creamy, hearty vegetarian feast pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread to mop up every drop of sauce or a bed of garlic-infused sautéed greens for additional texture and nutrition. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve the Marry Me Chickpeas in warm bowls with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for some delightful crunch and heat. Hosting guests? Present it alongside roasted vegetables or polenta to impress while keeping that rustic Italian charm intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days without losing their luscious texture or flavor. This makes it a perfect recipe to prep ahead or enjoy as a next-day quick meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the Marry Me Chickpeas, but be mindful that the heavy cream might separate slightly upon thawing. To handle this, gently reheat while stirring and add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop. Adding a little broth or cream while reheating helps bring back the luscious texture and keeps the chickpeas tender and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While canned tomatoes won’t provide the same intense sweetness and chewiness, you can substitute them in a pinch. Use a smaller quantity and consider adding a teaspoon of tomato paste to concentrate the flavor for the best results.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe uses butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, which are not vegan. However, you can substitute vegan butter, coconut cream or cashew cream, and a plant-based cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste.

Can I reduce the spiciness?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. The dish will still have plenty of flavor from the garlic, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes.

What can I serve instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

You can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option. Just add Greek yogurt off the heat to avoid curdling, keeping the sauce creamy and tangy.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe comes together in about 15 minutes total, making it a fantastic quick yet impressive meal you can whip up on busy weeknights or spontaneous dinners.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe has quickly become one of those dishes I find myself reaching for time and again. It delivers comfort, elegance, and a burst of Italian flair all in one creamy, dreamy bowl. Whether you are a longtime vegetarian or just looking to switch things up with a decadent meal, this recipe invites you to indulge in flavor and simplicity. I truly hope you give it a try and that it earns a special spot in your recipe collection just like it did in mine.

Marry Me Chickpeas: Creamy Italian-Style Vegetarian Feast Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need