Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe

This roasted chickpea recipe is my ultimate go-to because it’s a perfect snack that satisfies my savory cravings with just the right amount of spice. Plus, using the air fryer gives me that delightful crunch without all the guilt, making it an absolute win for casual snacking or salad toppings!

Using an air fryer to prepare crispy, perfectly healthy and delicious snacks is something I adore. One of these snacks that I crave is smoky air-fried chickpeas.

With the ingredients I use, which include smoked paprika, a good bit of cumin, and a touch of cayenne, the flavor of these protein-packed guys is out of this world. I promise that, if you go ahead and make them, you won’t be able to stop reaching into the bowl for just one more.

Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe Ingredients

• Chickpeas: High in protein and fiber, supports digestive health.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats, promotes heart health.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky flavor, contains beneficial antioxidants.
• Garlic Powder: Adds pungent, savory taste, may boost immune function.
• Onion Powder: Contributes umami flavor, rich in antioxidants.
• Cumin: Earthy, warm spice, aids digestion, rich in iron.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional heat, can boost metabolism and circulation.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances flavor, black pepper aids in nutrient absorption.

Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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How to Make this Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe

1. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to heat it before cooking.

2. Chickpeas must be thoroughly drained and rinsed, and then they are patted down with a paper towel, removing all excess moisture. Only then are they ready to be used in whatever recipe you choose.

3. In a medium bowl, mix the chickpeas with olive oil until they are evenly coated.

4. Place chickpeas in a bowl. Add to the bowl smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

5. Ensure the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spices by stirring well.

6. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

7. Crisp the food for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to guarantee that it cooks evenly.

8. Assess the chickpeas to see if they have reached the desired level of crispiness. If not, they should be cooked a little longer, 1 to 2 minutes more at most.

9. Take the chickpeas out of the air fryer and leave them to cool for a bit; they aren’t going to stop crisping up just because you’ve taken them out. In fact, they’re going to keep crisping for a good while as they cool. So, don’t rush to the next step.

10. Present the smoky air fryer chickpeas as a chilled snack or a warm, crunchy topping for salads and dishes.

Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Paper towels
3. Medium mixing bowl
4. Measuring spoons
5. Spoon or spatula for stirring
6. Air fryer basket

FAQ

• Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?A: Yes, but they must be cooked beforehand. Be sure to soak and then boil them until they’re tender.
• Q: How do I ensure the chickpeas turn out crispy?A: Before seasoning, dry the chickpeas very well. Don’t stuff the air fryer basket.
• Q: What is the recommended cooking time?A: In the air fryer, cook the chickpeas at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through.
• Q: Can I make these without an air fryer?A: Certainly, they can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, with a good stir halfway through.
• Q: Are the chickpeas spicy with cayenne pepper?The cayenne contributes a light warmth. Change the quantity according to what you like, or leave it out for a version that has no heat.
• Q: How do I store leftover chickpeas?A: To keep them crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay crispy for up to 2 days. Otherwise, it is best to keep them refrigerated.
• Q: Can I double the recipe?Yes, but batch cooking is best to prevent overcrowding the air fryer and to achieve a uniformly crisp end result.

Smoky Air Fryer Chickpeas Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Olive oil can be replaced with either avocado oil or vegetable oil.
Paprika, smoked: Use common paprika and add a dash of liquid smoke or a chipotle powder for more ooomph.
Powdered garlic: Trade for 1 tsp minced fresh garlic or 1/2 tsp garlic salt (remember to reduce any extra salt in the recipe accordingly).
Onion powder: Replace it with either 1 tablespoon of minced fresh onion or 1/2 teaspoon onion salt (if you use this, reduce any other salt you might add accordingly).
Cumin: For altogether different flavors, substitute with the following:

• Ground coriander
• Ground caraway seeds

Each gives an earthy flavor, but very different flavors from cumin.

Pro Tips

1. Dry Thoroughly After rinsing the chickpeas, ensure they are very dry before adding the oil and spices. Excess moisture can prevent them from achieving maximum crispiness in the air fryer.

2. Adjust Spices to Taste Feel free to experiment with the spice blend. Add more or less cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, or try adding a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

3. Shake for Even Cooking Shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking not only ensures even crisping but also prevents the chickpeas from sticking together.

4. Cool Completely for Extra Crispness Allow the chickpeas to cool completely after cooking for the crispiest texture. Spread them out on a baking sheet or a large plate to let them cool faster and fully dry out.

5. Store Properly For maintaining crispness, store any leftover chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid using the refrigerator, as the moisture can soften them. They are best consumed within a day or two for optimal texture.