Chickpeas in the air fryer

Instructions for Making Air Fryer Chickpeas

1. Prep the Chickpeas

Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas if using canned ones. If you’re using dried chickpeas, make sure they are cooked until soft (usually after soaking overnight and boiling).

• Dry the Chickpeas: Once you’ve drained and rinsed your chickpeas, it’s important to pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier they will get in the air fryer.

2. Season the Chickpeas

• Toss with Oil: In a bowl, toss the dried chickpeas with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil (or another oil of your choice). The oil helps them crisp up in the air fryer and ensures the spices stick.
• Add Spices: Once the chickpeas are coated in oil, add salt and any additional spices you’d like to use. For a classic flavor, try garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. For some heat, sprinkle in a little chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try a mix of curry powder or ground turmeric for an earthy flavor. If you prefer sweet chickpeas, you can toss them with a little cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.

3. Air Fry the Chickpeas

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While not all air fryers require preheating, doing so ensures that the chickpeas cook evenly and get extra crispy.
• Cook the Chickpeas: Place the seasoned chickpeas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them—this allows for better airflow and ensures they get crispy all around.
• Cook Time: Air fry the chickpeas for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. After about 10 minutes, check on them to see how they’re doing—some air fryers cook faster than others, so be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Check for Crispiness: Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. They should be crunchy on the outside but soft on the inside. If they’re not quite crispy enough, you can air fry them for an additional 3–5 minutes.

4. Cool and Serve

Let the crispy chickpeas cool slightly before serving. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a little more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

5. Enjoy!

Now your crispy, air-fried chickpeas are ready to enjoy! You can serve them as a snack, sprinkle them on top of salads, or use them as a crunchy topping for soups and grain bowls.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chickpeas

• Pat them dry: The key to crispy chickpeas is moisture. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before cooking. You can even let them sit on a paper towel for a few minutes to absorb any remaining moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: To ensure that the chickpeas crisp up evenly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• Experiment with Spices: One of the best things about air fryer chickpeas is how customizable they are. Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. For a Mediterranean twist, try oregano, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice. For an Asian-inspired flavor, use soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. The possibilities are endless!
• Storage: Air fryer chickpeas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. They may lose some crispness, but you can always reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunch.

Health Benefits of Air Fryer Chickpeas

Chickpeas are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly nutritious. Here are some health benefits of incorporating chickpeas into your diet:

• High in Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent plant-based source of protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
• Rich in Fiber: Chickpeas are high in fiber, which helps support digestive health, maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promote satiety.
• Packed with Nutrients: Chickpeas are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy and overall health.
• Low in Fat: Air frying uses less oil than deep frying, making air-fried chickpeas a much healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chickpeas

Air fryer chickpeas are the perfect combination of healthy and satisfying. They are easy to make, customizable to your taste, and packed with flavor and crunch. Whether you enjoy them as a snack on their own or add them to a meal for a boost of protein and texture, air fryer chickpeas are a great way to incorporate more legumes into your diet without the hassle of long cooking times.

So next time you’re craving something crispy, skip the chips and give these air fryer chickpeas a try. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a crunchy snack that’s both healthy and full of flavor. Happy air frying!