Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas Are The Guilt-Free Snack That Tastes Even Better Than Chips or Popcorn

Finding a snack that’s both delicious and good for you can sometimes feel impossible — until I discovered a can in my pantry that changed everything: chickpeas. Who knew these tiny legumes could get so crunchy, they’d rival my usual bag of chips or a bowl of popcorn? The moment I air fried them with some of my favorite spices, I was hooked. They’re crunchy, affordable, packed with flavor, and, best of all, guilt-free. I’m sharing my favorite 20-minute air fryer chickpeas recipe, along with helpful tips for getting the crispiest results every time. Plus, learn why chickpeas are so nutritious and why air frying is the best way to cook them.

What makes chickpeas so nutritious?

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are packed with plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegans and vegetarians (or anyone who’s trying to cut back on meat). A single cup contains around 15 grams of protein, alongside fiber, vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium. Plus, the high fiber content makes them super filling, so you can keep the hunger pangs at bay throughout the day.

Additionally, chickpeas are low in fat and provide complex carbohydrates for steady energy levels. So, whether you’re munching on them alone or tossing them into salads and bowls, they make for a nourishing snack that supports heart health, digestion and weight management goals.

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Why air fryer chickpeas are better

While you can eat chickpeas raw, I personally find them too soft, firm and bland. Cooking them so they’re warm and golden turns them into crispy nuggets reminiscent of roasted potatoes or croutons. Whether you use the oven or the air fryer, each will give the chickpeas a crispy outer shell while keeping them tender on the inside.

But if I had to choose, I love how air frying cuts the prep time in half. Normally, it takes me more than 30 minutes to bake chickpeas in the oven. But after switching to the air fryer, I can have a bowl of crispy chickpeas ready in far less time. This means they’re perfect for last-minute cravings or a quick, healthy snack when you don’t feel like cooking.

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Tips for the best air fryer chickpeas

Here are three foolproof tips I swear by to make them the crispiest and most flavorful snack:

1. Season, season, season

For the best caramelization, you’ll want to toss your chickpeas in oil and salt. Avocado oil and extra virgin olive oil are good options. Half of what makes cooked chickpeas so good is the seasonings you add, so feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. I usually go for a combination of garlic powder, paprika and cayenne for a bit of a kick.

2. Don’t overcrowd the basket

Spread the chickpeas in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Overcrowding them will prevent the hot air from circulating properly, leaving some chickpeas soggy and sad. You want them to have room to crisp up evenly, so depending on the size of your air fryer, work in batches if needed.

3. Shake your chickpeas

During cooking, you’ll want to make sure your chickpeas one, don’t burn, and two, cook evenly. Shake the air fryer basket every now and then during cooking, similar to popcorn, so they keep moving.

Crispy air fryer chickpeas recipe

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I love how easy this recipe is from Sweet Peas and Saffron — the chickpeas only take 15 minutes to cook! And if you’re dreading having to dry them, don’t be. With air fryer chickpeas,  you get to skip the drying step entirely. Any leftover chickpeas can be stored in a jar or airtight container for up to one week.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 Tbs. olive oil
• ⅛ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. garlic powder
• ¼ tsp. onion powder
• ½ tsp. paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)

Directions:

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas. Toss with olive oil, salt and spices.
3. Dump the whole batch of chickpeas in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking a couple of times.
4. When chickpeas are cooked to your liking, remove from air fryer, taste and add more salt and pepper to taste.