Turn a simple can of chickpeas into a healthy, crunchy snack in only 15 minutes!
Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are like the sleeper hit of foods, and they have every right to boast. After all, these tiny legumes are full of fiber and protein. Plus, they’re amazingly affordable. While they don’t offer a lot of flavor on their own, that’s what makes them so perfect. Add chickpeas to soups and hummus, or just enjoy them on their own with your favorite seasoning—that’s where this air fryer chickpeas recipe shines.
Chickpeas in the air fryer require only a few ingredients to transform from bland legumes into the ideal snack. This recipe is a must-have for days when you want a savory snack that’s not full of empty calories—I’m looking at you, potato chips. I keep plenty on hand for a quick snack or to top off my favorite salad.
I love it when a recipe is flexible. This air-fryer chickpea recipe suggests the seasoning of your choice and a little olive oil to flavor the chickpeas. How easy is that? What’s your favorite spice? Garlic? Thyme? Oregano? Maybe all three? Whatever flavor satisfies your palate will work well with air-fryer chickpeas.
Are Air-Fryer Chickpeas Healthy?
Air-fryer chickpeas are one of the healthiest snacks you can grab. They’re high in fiber and protein and low in fat. Even better, chickpeas have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a gradual rise in blood sugar rather than a sharp spike like starchy snacks (chips, crackers, etc.). The olive oil used to coat the chickpeas is also a healthy fat with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.
Another great benefit of this recipe is that it’s friendly for most diets, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. I like to make these when serving a crowd since everyone can dig in.
Our Secret To Perfectly Crispy Chickpeas
When a soft, canned garbanzo bean becomes a crunchy, savory snack, it begs the question, “How does that work?” The air fryer is a must for crisping foods, but the best-kept secret is the paper towels.
As the recipe mentions, thoroughly dry the chickpeas before frying them. Any moisture left hinders the crisping process. After rinsing them, I recommend spreading the chickpeas onto a baking sheet. From there, you can easily pat them dry with paper towels. Keep patting until there’s not one droplet of water left on these little beans! You’ll be amazed at how this simple step creates the crispiest results.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Air-fryer chickpeas are handy to have on hand, so it’s essential to store them properly. To do so, place the leftover chickpeas in an airtight container (I prefer a glass jar) and refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serving possibilities with these salty delights are endless. As mentioned, I think they are the perfect salad topping. I enjoy them regularly on my Pasta With Peas or a Healthy Mediterranean Couscous Salad.
Another fun way to use air-fryer chickpeas is to keep some in snack-size baggies in the pantry and then grab a bag as you walk out the door. Fast food and junky snacks always tempt me, and these crunchy chickpeas help me resist.
Also, add a handful of chickpeas to any soup you make. They are especially wonderful in Roasted Red Pepper And Tomato Soup or Lentil Soup.
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce can of chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1/2 tablespoon your choice of seasoning e.g., smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Drain the chickpeas and rinse thoroughly. Pat the chickpeas dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
- Toss the dried chickpeas with 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a mixing bowl.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF. If your model lacks a preheat setting, simply let it run for 3 minutes at the same temperature to warm up.
- Place the chickpeas in the air-fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer.
- Air fry the chickpeas for 5 minutes, then shake the basket. Continue air frying for another 5 minutes and shake again. Add another 2-3 minutes if your chickpeas are not crispy enough.
- Once done, transfer the chickpeas back to the mixing bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sprinkle your seasoning blend over the chickpeas (I also sometimes add salt!). Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve warm as a snack or a salad topping.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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