Name: Air Fryer Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: For the Chickpeas:; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Pinch of cayenne for heat or a dash of cumin for earthiness

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These Air Fryer Chickpeas are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! Seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder, they’re the perfect healthy snack or topping for salads and bowls. With a quick cook time and minimal prep, these chickpeas offer a satisfying crunch that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chickpeas are an addictive, guilt-free snack that’s packed with protein and fiber. They’re quick to prepare, easy to season with your favorite spices, and cook to perfection in the air fryer, giving them a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re munching on them by the handful or adding them to dishes like salads, wraps, or grain bowls, these crispy chickpeas are sure to become a go-to snack.

Air Fryer Chickpeas

Ingredients

1 (15 oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Pinch of cayenne for heat or a dash of cumin for earthiness

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Dry the Chickpeas:

After rinsing the chickpeas, pat them dry with a paper towel. The drier they are, the crispier they will become.

Season the Chickpeas:

In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil and seasonings (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices like cayenne or cumin) until they are evenly coated.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Air Fry the Chickpeas:

Add the seasoned chickpeas to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
For extra crispiness, cook a little longer, but be careful not to burn them.

Cool & Crisp:

Let the chickpeas cool for 5 minutes after cooking. They will crisp up even more as they cool.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Notes

Leftovers:

Store leftover chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can still retain their crispiness for a short time.

Add-Ons:

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as turmeric, chili powder, or even a bit of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

For Extra Crunch:

If you want even crispier chickpeas, you can air fry them for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to check them regularly to avoid burning.

Variations

Spicy Chickpeas: Add extra cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes to heat things up.
Lemon Pepper: Use lemon zest and a sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Herb Flavored: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an herbal flavor.
Garlic Parmesan: After cooking, toss the chickpeas with a bit of grated parmesan cheese for an extra savory flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chickpeas in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. They may lose some crispiness over time.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Just be sure to soak and cook them first before following the rest of the recipe.

Can I make a large batch of these chickpeas?

Yes, you can make a larger batch, but you’ll need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Make sure they are in a single layer for the crispiest result.

Can I add other seasonings to the chickpeas?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, curry powder, or garlic salt to customize the flavor to your liking.

Are these chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses only chickpeas, olive oil, and spices, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I make this recipe with frozen chickpeas?

While you can use frozen chickpeas, it’s important to thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking. Frozen chickpeas might need a bit more time to cook and crisp up.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chickpeas are a crunchy, healthy snack that you can whip up in no time. With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying snack that’s high in protein and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone snack or toss them into salads, bowls, or soups, these crispy chickpeas are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!