Crispy Spiced Chickpeas
These crispy spiced chickpeas are a wonderfully addictive, high-fiber snack that offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory flavor. Far healthier than traditional fried snacks, they're perfect for guilt-free munching anytime.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Thoroughly drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and pat them as dry as possible. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
In a medium bowl, combine the dried chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, fine sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring or shaking the pan halfway through, until the chickpeas are golden brown, firm, and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 5-10 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a snack, salad topping, or soup garnish. Enjoy your perfectly crispy spiced chickpeas!
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Dry, Dry, Dry!** The single most important step for crispy chickpeas is to ensure they are completely dry before roasting. Any residual moisture will steam them instead of crisping.
- 2**Single Layer is Key:** Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Chickpeas need space to allow air to circulate around them, promoting even crisping. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- 3**Shake for Evenness:** Stirring or shaking the baking sheet halfway through the roasting process ensures all sides of the chickpeas get exposed to the heat, leading to uniformly crispy results.
- 4**Cool for Crunch:** Don't eat them straight out of the oven! They will become even crispier as they cool down on the baking sheet.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweet & Savory
Replace savory spices with 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp ginger, ¼ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of brown sugar for a dessert-like snack.
Lemon HerbLemon Herb
Add 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp dried thyme, and the zest of half a lemon for a bright, Mediterranean twist.
Spicy BuffaloSpicy Buffalo
After roasting, toss the warm chickpeas with 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot) and a tiny drizzle of melted vegan butter for a fiery kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Chickpeas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein
As a good source of plant-based protein, these chickpeas contribute to muscle repair, satiety, and sustained energy throughout the day.
Rich in Nutrients
They provide essential micronutrients like iron, folate, magnesium, and zinc, supporting various bodily functions from energy production to immune health.
Frequently asked questions
The secret is thorough drying before roasting, spreading them in a single layer on the baking sheet, and roasting at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) until golden brown. Letting them cool on the pan also helps them crisp up further.
