Description
A quick, crispy, and smoky snack made in the air fryer using canned chickpeas. This small-batch recipe solves the problem of leftover waste and stale chips, delivering a high-protein, crunchy treat in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) low-sodium chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, divided
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas in a colander under cold water for 30 seconds to remove excess sodium and liquid. Shake vigorously to remove surface water.
- Spread chickpeas on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat dry and gently rub to remove loose skins. Ensure they are completely dry for maximum crispiness.
- Transfer dried chickpeas to a large bowl. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and half of the sea salt. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 2 minutes. Spread chickpeas in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 4-5 minutes. Cook until golden brown, hollow-sounding when tapped, and hard to the touch.
- Remove from air fryer and immediately sprinkle with remaining salt while hot. Let cool on the counter for 5 minutes to finish crisping before serving.
Notes
The key to crispiness is removing all moisture and loose skins before cooking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in a single layer. If your air fryer runs hot, check at 10 minutes and lower temperature to 375°F if browning too fast. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes if they go soft. Do not freeze.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cu
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 7
Keywords: air fryer chickpeas, small batch snack, healthy snacks, high protein snack, crispy chickpeas, vegan snack, gluten-free snack, quick recipes