Craving a crunchy, satisfying snack? These Crispy Spiced Air Fryer Chickpeas are a fantastic, healthy option that’s super easy to make. You’ll love this simple addition to your collection of healthy air fryer recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Canned Chickpeas: Essential for this recipe.
- Olive Oil: A small amount helps with crispiness. You can use avocado oil instead.
- Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Feel free to adjust to your taste or try curry powder for a different flavor.
Ingredients
Main:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and thoroughly dried
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 170 calories
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
Rinse your canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Pat them very dry with a paper towel; this is crucial for getting them crispy. Ensure no excess moisture remains.
2. Season the Chickpeas
Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Add all the spices – cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper – and toss again until the chickpeas are well-coated.
3. Air Fry for Crispy Perfection
Arrange the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. Continue cooking until they are golden brown and delightfully crunchy.
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder with your other spices.
- Herbaceous: Mix in dried oregano or thyme for an earthy flavor.
- Sweet & Savory: A dash of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of brown sugar can create a unique snack.
- Lemon Herb: After air frying, toss with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and fresh chopped parsley.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover crispy chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They may lose some crispiness over time. To re-crisp, simply pop them back into the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you use dried chickpeas for this recipe?
A: Yes, but you will need to cook and soften them first according to package directions before proceeding with drying and seasoning.
Q: How do you get the chickpeas extra crispy?
A: The key is to dry them extremely well before seasoning and to cook them in a single layer in the air fryer, shaking the basket frequently.
Q: What can you serve crispy chickpeas with?
A: They make a great snack on their own, a crunchy topping for salads, or a wonderful addition to Buddha bowls and wraps.
Q: Can you make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Yes, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
Q: Why are my air fryer chickpeas not getting crispy?
A: Most likely, they were not dry enough before air frying, or your air fryer was too crowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
