Air Fryer Chickpeas

These crispy air-fried chickpeas make a delicious, high-fiber snack or salad topping! Ready in just minutes, they’re quick to prepare in the air fryer and loaded with flavor.

Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

Looking for a simple, crunchy, and healthy snack? Crispy air fryer chickpeas are the perfect option! They’re high in fiber, quick to make, and customizable with your favorite spices. Whether you’re snacking on them or tossing them into a salad, these crispy chickpeas are sure to become a go-to recipe.

Why I Love Making Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

There are so many reasons to love these air-fried chickpeas! First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare and only require a few basic ingredients. All you need is a can of chickpeas, some olive oil spray, and your choice of seasoning. Plus, they’re ready in under 20 minutes! Not only are they healthy and packed with fiber, but they also deliver a satisfying crunch that makes them the perfect alternative to chips or croutons. Whether you’re craving a snack or need a quick salad topping, these chickpeas are both nutritious and delicious.

Air Fryer Chickpea Seasoning Ideas

One of the best parts about making crispy air fryer chickpeas is the flexibility with seasonings. The chickpeas act as a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. Here are some seasoning ideas to get you started:

• Cajun seasoning: Add a spicy, smoky kick to your chickpeas.
• Garlic salt: For a simple and savory option.
• Blackened seasoning: Perfect if you love bold, zesty flavors.
• Za’atar: A Middle Eastern blend with sesame, sumac, and herbs.
• Tajin: A tangy mix of chili, lime, and salt.
• Curry powder: Add a warm, earthy flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A savory touch with a bit of richness.
• Ranch seasoning: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, dried parsley, and dill for a homemade ranch flavor.

Feel free to mix and match spices to create your own custom blend!

Crispy Chickpea Tips

To get the crispiest chickpeas possible, follow these tips:

• Dry them well: After rinsing, make sure the chickpeas are completely dry before air frying. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Pat them down with paper towels and let them air dry for up to an hour if you have time.
• Shake the basket: Every 5 minutes, shake the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Store properly: Once cooked, store any leftover chickpeas in an airtight jar or container at room temperature. If they soften over time, just pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to revive their crunch.
• Season immediately: Toss the chickpeas with your chosen seasoning while they’re still hot so that the flavors stick well.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time:15 minutes
• Total Time:20 minutes
• Yield:3 servings
• Course: Snack
• Cuisine: American

Equipment:

• Air fryer
• Colander

Ingredients:

• 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• Olive oil spray (extra virgin)
• 1 teaspoon of your favorite spice blend (examples: Cajun, garlic salt, blackened seasoning, za’atar, Montreal steak seasoning, etc.)

Directions:

1. Prep the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas using a colander. Spread them out on a paper towel-lined plate and allow them to dry completely. For best results, let them sit for up to an hour if you have time.
2. Air Fry: Place the chickpeas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. They should turn golden brown and become crunchy inside without being moist.
3. Season: Once cooked, transfer the hot chickpeas to a bowl. Spritz with olive oil, then toss with your preferred seasonings. Enjoy them at room temperature as a snack or sprinkle them over a salad for added crunch.

Tips for Extra Crunch:

• Make sure the chickpeas are completely dry before air frying to achieve the crispiest result. If they start to soften later, pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Storage:

• Store any leftover chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat in the air fryer if they lose their crunch.

Flavor Ideas:

The sky’s the limit when it comes to seasoning these crispy chickpeas! Some options include:

• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic salt
• Blackened seasoning
• Montreal steak seasoning
• Za’atar
• Tajin
• Curry powder
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Homemade ranch blend (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, dried parsley, and dill)

Nutritional Information:

Serving size: ½ cup

• Calories: 196
• Carbohydrates: 32.5g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 3.5g (saturated fat: 0.5g)
• Sodium: 714mg
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 5.5g