Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

These air fryer chickpeas are a crunchy, savory snack that's easy to make and full of flavor. They're seasoned to perfection with spice cabinet staples, and make a healthy snack, salad topper, or delicious addition to any power bowl.

This recipe is one of the best ways to turn humble canned chickpeas into a crave-worthy, crunchy snack in minutes. 

Air frying is the secret to getting chickpeas irresistibly crisp. The circulating heat dries the chickpeas as they lightly roast, creating a snack that's crunchy on the outside and nutty, toasty on the inside. 

Using a simple seasoning blend gives them a savory, smoky finish that pairs with just about anything.

We like them sprinkled on top of salads, like my Cabbage Crunch Salad, or tossed into this Dill Pickle Egg Salad. 

One of the keys to crispy garbanzo beans is drying them well before cooking.

After rinsing and draining, pat them thoroughly dry with a kitchen towel. This step, along with tossing them with a small amount of avocado oil and seasonings, helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer rather than steam.

why you'll love this recipe

This recipe is a simple and easy snack that's also incredibly versatile!

Not only can you enjoy them in a variety of ways, but you can also customize the recipe with your favorite seasonings. 

Since chickpeas have protein and fiber along with many other nutrients, this air fryer chickpeas recipe is an easy way to prepare a healthy, quick snack or salad topping to enjoy all week long. 

Crunchy chickpeas are:

• a good source of fiber and protein;
• easy to make with only five minutes of prep time;
• a delicious snack, crouton substitute, or addition to any meal. 

the ingredients

What I love about this recipe is how you really don't need much.

The magic of the air fryer, combined with just a few simple ingredients, is a foolproof way to create crunchy, crispy chickpeas. 

Here's what you'll need:

• Canned chickpeas (or garbanzo beans): You'll want to make sure to drain any liquid from your can of chickpeas and pat them dry with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel. Removing any moisture is the best way to help them crisp beautifully.
• Seasonings: I like a mixture of fine sea salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. It gives them a savory flavor that's very versatile. There are so many different ways you can season these, so feel free to use your own favorite spices. 
• Avocado oil: While the hot air circulating through the air fryer means you can typically skip oil, I like a small amount here as I feel it helps give the chickpeas a golden brown color and that perfect crunch. Swap avocado oil for extra-virgin olive oil, or use an olive oil spray.

how to roast chickpeas in the air fryer

The process couldn't be any easier! 

Here's a look at how to make perfect chickpeas in the air fryer but check out the full recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the details:

Depending on your air fryer, they'll usually be perfectly crisp in about 12-15 minutes.

tips for extra crispy chickpeas

For extra crispy chickpeas: 

• Dry the chickpeas very well before air frying.
• Remove loose skins for extra crunch.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket- you'll want to spread them out in a single layer.
• Shake the basket or your tray a few times while cooking to help them crisp evenly.
• Roast the chickpeas in an air fryer set to high heat to help them get a crunchy exterior. 

substitutions and variations

Once you master the basic method, you can easily change the flavor profile.

Try chili powder and cumin for a taco-inspired version, curry powder for something warm and aromatic, or a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder for heat.

Change it up with different seasonings to make your own favorite flavor combinations. 

storage

I like to make a couple of batches and store them in an airtight container. They'll last for over a week!

Keep them in a cool, dry place, like your pantry. They are best at room temperature since they will remain the most crisp. 

how to enjoy air fryer chickpeas

These are a wonderful protein snack, but since chickpeas can be a little higher in carbohydrates, I always like to pair them with something higher in protein and healthy fat.

Here are a few ways to enjoy a little bit of crunch with this air fryer chickpeas recipe:

• As a crisp topping for this keto chicken tortilla soup or low-carb cauliflower soup. 
• Tossed into this cabbage crunch salad, pizza salad, or this high-protein pasta salad. 
• As part of a these savory cottage cheese bowls or lettuce wrap.

frequently asked questions

Simple, crunchy, and packed with flavor, these crispy air fryer chickpeas are a snack you'll find yourself making again and again.