Name: Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 shallot, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup orzo; 3 cups chicken broth; small bundle of fresh thyme; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup jarred sun-dried tomatoes or similar; 1-2 cups fresh spinach, torn; parmesan, red pepper flakes, and more thyme for topping

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving the kind of weeknight dinner that feels decadent but comes together in a snap, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo. This creamy, dreamy skillet dish brings together al dente orzo, buttery chickpeas, a swirl of silky cream, and a bright pop of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Every spoonful of Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo is packed with a blend of earthy, savory, and zesty flavors that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds (and possibly your hand in marriage). It’s an instant classic that’s all about comfort, flavor, and effortless feel-good food.

Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo is that it transforms a handful of pantry and fresh staples into something truly special. Each ingredient brings its own personality to the dish, making every bite more interesting than the last.

Olive Oil: Rich and golden, it’s the perfect foundation for gently softening aromatics and coaxing out their sweetness.
Shallot: Thinly sliced shallots lend a delicate, almost sweet oniony flavor that never overwhelms.
Garlic: Fresh garlic, thinly sliced, releases an irresistible aroma and livens up the whole skillet.
Canned Chickpeas: Firm, nutty chickpeas bring plant-based heartiness and soak up every bit of sauce.
Tomato Paste: A couple tablespoons create rich umami depth and a deep red color for the sauce base.
Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta becomes wonderfully tender and creamy, tying everything together.
Chicken Broth: Adds savory backbone (use your favorite, or try Better Than Bouillon for a boost in flavor).
Fresh Thyme: Toss in a few sprigs for an herbal note that perfumes the whole dish beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Just half a cup swirls into the skillet for that signature luxurious creaminess.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes/Tomato Bruschetta/Calabrian Chiles: These bring tang, sweetness, and zing—choose your favorite or mix for even more pop.
Fresh Spinach: Torn to pieces, it wilts quickly and gives a hit of color and nutrients right at the end.
Parmesan, Red Pepper Flakes, and More Thyme (for topping): Finish every serving with a flourish of cheese, subtle heat, and more fresh herbs.

How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Chickpeas

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the shallot and garlic, letting them sizzle gently for 2-3 minutes until they become wonderfully soft and fragrant. This is your opportunity to build deep flavor right from the beginning. Next, toss in the drained chickpeas and tomato paste. Sauté for another few minutes until the tomato paste darkens and the chickpeas get a glossy, brick-red finish that promises amazing taste to come.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

Sprinkle the uncooked orzo right into your skillet, then pour in the chicken broth and nestle in those fresh sprigs of thyme. Stir everything together, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook for 7-9 minutes. The orzo will absorb the broth, swelling and turning the base creamy and starchy—think of it as a shortcut risotto, but no constant stirring required.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Once the orzo is al dente, remove and discard the woody thyme stems. Lower the heat, swirl in your heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This is where everything transforms into the luscious signature of Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo. Taste and adjust with a splash more cream or a pinch of salt if needed for that perfect balance.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spinach

Right before serving, add in the sun-dried tomatoes (or your favorite variation) and torn spinach. Stir until the spinach just wilts and the tomatoes are warmed through. The colors should sing and the sauce should embrace every single ingredient.

Step 5: Serve and Top

Spoon generous helpings onto plates or deep bowls. Shower each serving with plenty of Parmesan, a scatter of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, and a few extra thyme leaves. The result? Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo at its most irresistible, ready to share with a hungry crowd or savor all to yourself.

How to Serve Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo

Garnishes

Finish your Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo with a cascade of freshly grated Parmesan, a few thyme leaves, and a subtle shake of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh basil or parsley add a splash of green, and a tiny drizzle of extra olive oil can elevate each bowl to restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand solo, but if you’re up for making it a whole menu, serve it alongside a crisp arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon, or a platter of warm, crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccolini match the Mediterranean vibes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping dinner, serve Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo in individual oven-proof dishes and broil for a minute with extra Parmesan on top. Or, turn leftovers into a baked casserole with a bubbly cheese topping. It also works fabulously as a filling for stuffed peppers or tomatoes—dinner party flair guaranteed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any extra Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps happily in the fridge for up to 3 days and somehow gets even tastier as the flavors meld.

Freezing

While best fresh, you can freeze this dish! Scoop portions into freezer containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture, though be aware the cream may separate slightly (it’s still delicious after a quick stir).

Reheating

Reheat Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revitalize its creamy texture, or pop single servings in the microwave. Top up with a bit of fresh cheese or herbs if you feel fancy!

FAQs

Can I make Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap the cream for coconut milk or your favorite unsweetened plant cream, use vegetable broth, and choose a plant-based Parmesan substitute—every bit as comforting and delicious.

Is there a gluten-free alternative to orzo?

Yes! Look for gluten-free orzo at specialty stores, or try using short-grain rice or even quinoa. Adjust liquid and cooking times as needed, tasting as you go.

Can I add protein to make it even heartier?

For sure. Leftover rotisserie chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage add even more oomph, though you might find the chickpeas plenty filling on their own.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

No worries! Chopped cherry tomatoes, a spoonful of tomato bruschetta topping, or even roasted red peppers can provide the sweet-tangy punch you’re after. Use what you love or have handy.

Can Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo be served cold?

It’s best warm and creamy, but leftovers do make an unexpectedly tasty pasta salad when tossed with extra spinach, extra olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a dinner that feels both comforting and elevated, don’t hesitate to give Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo a try. It’s fast, flavorful, and sure to win you fans at the table. With every bowlful, you’ll wonder how something so easy can taste so special—so go ahead, make it tonight and see why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation!

Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 16 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo recipe is a delicious and creamy dish that combines tender orzo pasta with hearty chickpeas, flavorful aromatics, and a touch of creaminess. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner for two.

Instructions

Aromatics and Chickpeas: Heat oil in a skillet, sauté shallot and garlic until soft. Add chickpeas and tomato paste; sauté until deep red.
Cook Orzo: Add orzo, chicken broth, and thyme; simmer covered for 7-9 minutes.
Finish Sauce: Remove thyme, stir in cream, simmer until creamy. Adjust seasonings.
Add-Ins: Add tomatoes and spinach, stir until wilted. Serve sprinkled with herbs and Parmesan.