Crispy Chickpeas

Chickpeas are such a versatile ingredient in any plant-based pantry.  They can be transformed into so many tasty things and they’re loaded with nutrition. These Crispy Chickpeas are the easiest way to turn those lil nuggets into an easy and healthy snack. Seasoned with Homemade Taco Seasoning, they use just 3 simple ingredients and 5 minutes of prep. Air Fry, pan fry, or bake these bad boys to your hearts desire. 

Did you know you can make just about any bean crunchy?? Try these Air Fried Black Beans if you don’t believe me!

Looking for more delicious vegan snacks? Try these Crispy Polenta Fries or Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. 

For more Chickpea recipes, try this Buffalo Chickpea Dip or Roasted Chickpea Lemon Pasta. 

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Easy prep – Gone are the days of removing the skin from chickpeas. Just toss all the ingredients into a bowl and you’re set!
• Customizable – This recipe uses my Homemade Taco Seasoning, but you can use any spices you’d like. Try this Italian Herb Mix or Shawarma Spice Blend for a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern vibe.
• Perfect snack – You can easily make a double batch of this chickpea snack to have all week!
• Basic ingredients – You probably already have everything you need to make these chickpeas in your pantry

Ingredients

• Chickpeas – Canned chickpeas are a great way to ensure quick prep and easier clean up, but you could start with dry chickpeas and cook them thoroughly first.
• Taco Seasoning – Try my homemade taco seasoning recipe! Of course, you can use store-bought taco seasoning if that is what you have or prefer. You can also try different flavor combinations and swap for a different spice mixture like Shawarma spice mix or go simple with just a single ingredient like garlic powder or smoked paprika. 
• Olive Oil – Any of your favorite oils work, just make sure they are approved for high-heat if you will be pan-frying these chickpeas.

Helpful Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Large baking sheet (to bake)
• Parchment paper (optional, for baking)
• Air fryer (for air fried chickpeas)
• large pan (for pan-fried chickpeas)

How to Make Crunchy Chickpeas

Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas and pat them dry with paper towels.  You do not have to take the skins off the chickpeas. I repeat, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE THE SKINS OFF OF THE CHICKPEAS… save yourself the hassle!

Place the dried chickpeas into a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil and your desired spices, and mix until they are evenly coated.

Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

Spread the coated chickpeas in a single layer onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure there is a good amount of space between the chickpeas so that all sides can get nice and crispy.

Place the chickpeas in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Check every 15 minutes or so to mix and ensure the chickpeas are not burning.

Remove them from the oven and allow to cool about 10 minutes. They will be golden brown and will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

Follow the same prep steps and toss the coated chickpeas into the air fryer instead of the oven! 

Air fry at 350 for 30-45 minutes checking and mixing the chickpeas every 10-15 minutes.

Pan-Fried Chickpeas

​Pan-frying these chickpeas is a great way to make them in less time. 

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 

Add the chickpeas and spices and stir. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring often. The chickpeas are done when they are brown and crispy. Transfer chickpeas to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving or storing. 

How to Serve

These chickpeas make a great salad topper or nutritious snack.

They’re a delicious addition to a grain bowl with farro and sweet potatoes. 

They’re also a great last minute way to use up cans of chickpeas in your pantry!

How to Store

• Room Temp: Serve them right away or store them at room temperature uncovered for 3-5 days.

More Tips

• Not Vegan? Add chicken salt to the spice mix. Serve with cotija cheese on a salad or burrito bowl. 
• Want another flavor? You can replace the taco season with any combination of spices you like. Go for an Italian-style flavor with garlic, basil, parsley, and oregano, or keep it simple with just salt & pepper…the possibilities are endless!

FAQ