Crispy Chickpeas
A quick, nutritious, and delicious snack, Crispy Roasted Chickpeas are a high-protein, fiber-rich, and vegan-friendly treat that adds crunch to salads, sandwiches, and bowls. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for healthy snacking and easy meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 Large Nonstick Baking Sheet (USA Pan recommended)
- 1 Sheet Parchment Paper
- 1 Kitchen Towel (for drying)
- 1 Measuring Cup (for chickpeas and oil)
- 1 Medium Mixing Bowl (for tossing)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups cooked chickpeas rinsed and drained well
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika curry powder, or your preferred spice blend (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Surface: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper to ensure even roasting and easy cleanup.
- Dry the Chickpeas Thoroughly: Place the cooked chickpeas onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently press and pat them dry to remove as much moisture as possible. Peel off any loose skins for a crisper final texture.
- Season the Chickpeas: Transfer the dried chickpeas into a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Toss well to coat every chickpea evenly, ensuring each one is lightly covered in oil and seasoning.
- Roast to Crispy Perfection: Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place in the oven and roast for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir or shake the tray every 10 minutes to promote even browning and crispiness. Watch closely toward the end to avoid burning.
- Add Final Flavor Touches: Once golden brown and crunchy, remove the chickpeas from the oven. While still warm, toss them with your choice of smoked paprika, curry powder, or other spices for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cool and Store: Allow the roasted chickpeas to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their crunch.
Notes
- Moisture Removal is Key: Make sure the chickpeas are as dry as possible before roasting; excess moisture prevents crisping.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, cumin, chili flakes, or nutritional yeast for unique flavor profiles.
- Watch the Oven: Oven temperatures vary, so check your chickpeas regularly after 20 minutes to prevent burning while achieving desired crispness.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe doubles well—use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding and ensure even roasting.
- Storage Tip: To keep chickpeas crunchy longer, avoid sealing them airtight until they have fully cooled, as trapped steam can cause sogginess.
