Easy Vegan Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Have you ever stumbled upon a dish so creamy, so comforting, that you thought, “Okay, this could actually win someone’s heart”?

That’s exactly what we have here with my vegan twist on a classic: Marry Me Chickpeas. Inspired by the well-loved Marry Me Chicken recipe, this vegan version captures the same creamy, dreamy feel while staying completely plant-based.

And let me tell you—this creamy, golden dish is a total delight! It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy, warm, and absolutely satisfied, perfect for impressing someone or just treating yourself to something extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s simple. These chickpeas are wrapped in a creamy, flavorful sauce with that beautiful golden-yellow color that just screams comfort food.

Think rich coconut cream, a touch of tang, and aromatic herbs all mingling together to create something that’s more than a meal—it’s a moment. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion.

The rich, creamy sauce has a depth of flavor that comes from the mix of coconut cream, tomato paste, and dried herbs.

Each bite is a perfect blend of comforting creaminess and aromatic spice, making it almost impossible not to fall in love with. Imagine serving this dish to someone you love.

The creamy texture, the burst of flavors—all of it is just so inviting. It’s no wonder why people call this a “marry me” kind of dish! The name comes from its ability to woo with one bite, and even without the chicken, these chickpeas will do just the trick.

Whether you’re cooking for a partner, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to make an impression.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup coconut cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels luxurious, yet accessible.

The coconut cream adds richness, while the dried herbs bring depth. And don’t forget the fresh basil—it really elevates the final presentation, making it feel restaurant-quality.

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma of onion and garlic cooking together is one of those smells that instantly makes a kitchen feel like home.
Add the Chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soak up some of the flavors from the onion and garlic. Chickpeas are great at absorbing flavors, and giving them a little time here helps to build that rich taste.
Make it Creamy: Pour in the coconut cream, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir well until everything is combined. Add the thyme, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. As you stir, you’ll notice the sauce start to take on that gorgeous golden color, becoming rich and velvety. This step is where all the magic happens—the ingredients blend together to create a sauce that is creamy, slightly tangy, and deeply flavorful.
Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is nice and creamy. The color should be a gorgeous, golden yellow—just the kind of color that makes you want to dive right in. As it simmers, the flavors meld together, and the sauce thickens to perfection. This is the point where you might find yourself sneaking a spoonful straight from the pan—it’s just that good!
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve over rice, pasta, or even with some crusty bread. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to share it with someone special. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the rich, creamy sauce. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice, twirling it with pasta, or mopping up the sauce with bread, each bite is pure comfort.

A Note on the Creaminess

This recipe is all about that creamy texture. The coconut cream brings in such a luxurious feel, while the mix of herbs makes it aromatic and oh-so-inviting.

If you’re looking for that perfect balance of richness and flavor, this is it. The golden, creamy color alone is enough to get your taste buds excited—and the taste? Even better.

The combination of coconut cream, tomato paste, and herbs creates a sauce that clings perfectly to the chickpeas, making every bite feel indulgent. It’s the kind of creaminess that makes you close your eyes and savor each mouthful, a true comfort food experience.