Roasted chickpeas are crunchy, tasty little snacks that pack a punch! They are super easy to make and perfect for munching while watching a movie or for a healthy snack on-the-go.
Once you season them just right, you’ll find it hard to stop popping these crunchy bites. I often make a big batch and share them—but most of the time, I end up keeping them all to myself! 😅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but if you prefer, you can use dried chickpeas. Just soak and cook them first. They tend to be creamier and can absorb spices well.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness, but any oil with a high smoke point works—like avocado or canola oil. For a different flavor, try using coconut oil!
Spices: I love cumin and smoked paprika for a warm flavor. However, you can switch these with garlic salt, chili powder, or curry powder based on your preference. Feel free to be creative!
Cayenne Pepper: If you’re sensitive to heat, you can skip this or use a sprinkle of paprika instead to keep some flavor but dial down the spice.
How Can You Ensure Your Chickpeas Get Extra Crispy?
The trick to crispy roasted chickpeas is removing as much moisture as possible. After rinsing, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to dry them thoroughly. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Pat them dry gently but firmly to soak up all the moisture.
- Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Shake or stir them halfway through roasting to ensure they crisp evenly.
Remember, if they look golden, they’re likely ready! Letting them cool will enhance their crunchiness, so resist the urge to munch right away.
Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 25 to 35 minutes to roast. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying your roasted chickpeas in about 40 to 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for getting those chickpeas crispy and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Chickpeas:
Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cool water. After rinsing, place them on a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels and pat them dry as much as you can. This is essential because less moisture means more crunch!
3. Coat with Oil:
Transfer your dried chickpeas to a medium bowl. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them and toss gently until they are evenly coated.
4. Season the Chickpeas:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick. Toss everything again to get the spices mixed in well.
5. Spread on the Baking Sheet:
Now, spread the seasoned chickpeas out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t too crowded so they can roast evenly.
6. Roast to Perfection:
Roast in the oven for about 25 to 35 minutes. Be sure to shake or stir the chickpeas every 10 minutes. This way, they’ll get golden brown all over and won’t burn!
7. Let Them Cool:
Once they look crispy and golden, pull them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll become even crunchier as they cool!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your roasted chickpeas warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect snack all on their own! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days—although they’re usually gone long before then!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful homemade roasted chickpeas!
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you’re using dried chickpeas, you’ll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before roasting. This will help them achieve a similar texture and flavor to canned chickpeas.
How Can I Add More Flavor?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! Try adding curry powder, Italian seasoning, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just make sure to balance the seasonings to your taste preference.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes! To add heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or try adding some chili powder or hot sauce. Just remember to start with a little and taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Chickpeas?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, they are best eaten fresh, as they can lose their crunch over time. To revive them, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes!