Description
Crunchy, protein-packed air fryer chickpeas that are perfect for meal prep. These snacks stay crisp for days and require minimal oil for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (15 oz each) low-sodium chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly in a colander under cold water to remove starchy liquid. Shake off excess water.
- Pat the chickpeas completely dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Ensure no surface moisture remains to guarantee crispiness.
- Split any chickpeas that are stuck together in pairs to ensure even cooking.
- Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well until every chickpea is evenly coated. If making multiple flavors, divide chickpeas into separate bowls before seasoning.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Spread the chickpeas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
- Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until golden brown and crunchy.
- Transfer to a plate or cooling rack and let cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Notes
Drying the chickpeas thoroughly is the most critical step for achieving crunchiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If they lose crunch, re-crisp in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Fiber: 7
- Protein: 8
Keywords: air fryer chickpeas, meal prep snacks, healthy snacks, high protein snack, gluten free snack, vegan snack, crunchy chickpeas