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A close-up of a pan of creamy chickpea spinach curry being stirred with a wooden spoon, ready to be served.

Marry Me Chickpeas

This creamy, dreamy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe features pan-seared chickpeas simmered in a rich sun-dried tomato and Parmesan sauce with fresh spinach, making a delightful and surprisingly quick vegetarian main.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Chickpeas
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas drained and thoroughly patted dry
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch salt
  • Pinch black pepper
For the "Marry Me" Sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup shallot finely diced (or 1/4 small onion)
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a kick
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Prepare the Crispy Chickpeas
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the drained and thoroughly patted dry chickpeas with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove the chickpeas from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the "Marry Me" Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add another 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and diced shallot (or onion) and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen the flavor of the tomato paste.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Return the crispy chickpeas to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the sauce. Stir in the fresh chopped basil.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Notes

Serve these Marry Me Chickpeas over pasta, rice, quinoa, polenta, or with crusty bread for dipping. This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the chickpeas may lose some of their crispness.