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Looking for a snack that’s both nutritious and irresistibly crunchy? These Delicious Crunchy Chickpeas are your answer! Packed with protein and fiber, they’re the perfect guilt-free treat to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re munching on them straight from the oven or sprinkling them over salads, these chickpeas are a game-changer.
I first discovered the magic of roasted chickpeas during a busy week when I needed a quick, healthy snack. One bite, and I was hooked! The crispy texture and savory flavor made them an instant favorite in my household. Now, I make them weekly, experimenting with different spices to keep things exciting.
Ready to transform simple chickpeas into a crispy delight? Let’s get started!
What to Expect
- Time: Approximately 40 minutes (including prep and roasting)
- Difficulty: Easy
Before You Begin
Before diving into the recipe, make sure your chickpeas are well-drained and dried. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. Also, don’t be afraid to get creative with your spices—this recipe is incredibly versatile!
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed | 1½ cups |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | For drizzling |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Paprika, curry powder, or other spices | Optional, to taste |
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the chickpeas on a kitchen towel and pat them dry. Remove any loose skins.
- Transfer the dried chickpeas to the baking sheet and toss them with a drizzle of olive oil and generous pinches of salt.
- Roast the chickpeas for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. If they’re not crispy enough, keep roasting until they are!
- Remove from the oven and, while the chickpeas are still warm, toss them with your choice of spices, such as paprika or curry powder.
- Store the roasted chickpeas in a loosely-covered container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within two days.
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
For extra crispiness, make sure your chickpeas are completely dry before roasting. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of garlic powder or cumin for a unique twist. These Delicious Crunchy Chickpeas are also a fantastic topping for soups or salads. For more delicious ideas, check out this Glow Bowl Recipe.
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Delicious Crunchy Chickpeas: Super Healthy & High-Protein
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Delicious Crunchy Chickpeas are the ultimate healthy snack satisfying that craving for something salty and crispy. Perfectly roasted with a blend of savory smoked paprika and cumin, they are naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with plant-based protein. Ditch the potato chips for this addictive, guilt-free bite.
Ingredients
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon sea salt (add more to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven.
2. Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly in a colander and let them drain.
3. The Secret Step: Spread the chickpeas out on a clean kitchen towel or layers of paper towels. Pat them very dry. Gently roll them around to remove any loose skins (discard the skins). The drier the chickpea, the crunchier the result!
4. Transfer the dried chickpeas to a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil and toss with your hands or a spatula until evenly coated.
5. Spread them into a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes.
6. Remove the pan from the oven and give the chickpeas a good shake or stir to ensure even browning.
7. Return to the oven and roast for another 10–15 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Remove from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne over the hot chickpeas. Toss well to coat. (Adding spices *after* roasting prevents them from burning and tasting bitter).
9. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
10. Serve immediately as a snack or salad topper.
Notes
Drying is Key: If your chickpeas are still wet when they go into the oven, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in a chewy texture rather than a crunchy one.
Storage: These are best eaten fresh. If you must store them, keep them in a jar with the lid loosely screwed on (slightly open) at room temperature for 2 days. An airtight container will make them soft.
Air Fryer Method: Toss dried chickpeas with oil and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Toss with spices after cooking.
Serving Idea: Use these as a high-protein, gluten-free substitute for croutons in salads or soups.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 0
Your Burning Questions Answered!
- Can I use canned chickpeas?
- Absolutely! Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before use.
- How do I know when the chickpeas are done?
- They should be golden brown and crispy to the touch. If they’re still soft, keep roasting them a bit longer.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook them at 390°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Dig In & Enjoy!
There you have it—your new favorite snack! These Delicious Crunchy Chickpeas are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying them as a standalone snack or using them to add crunch to your meals, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.