Air Fryer Crispy Chickpeas

Crispy chickpeas made in the air fryer are easy and delicious in so many ways.

Air fryer crispy chickpeas take about the same time to make as if roasted in a hot oven, but without having to heat up the entire kitchen. A bonus anytime, but especially in the summer!

These chickpeas make a quick and easy snack, salad topper, and when crushed, can be added on top of vegetables or even ice cream.

How Do I Prepare The Chickpeas?

I’m using canned chickpeas in this recipe, but dried chickpeas that have been cooked can be used as well.

For the canned beans, drain and rinse them well to remove any of the canning liquid. To ensure they become crispy in the air fryer, both the canned and dried/cooked chickpeas need to be patted dry before going into the air fryer basket. I like to use a few paper towels for this, and when I think I’ve dried them well enough, I dry them again just to be sure.

Because the chickpeas are round, any salt or seasoning will have a hard time clinging to the outside. So they need a light coating of oil, which will help the salt and seasonings stick to them. If the chickpeas aren’t dried well, the oil won’t stick, which means the seasonings won’t stick.

What seasoning should you use for chickpeas? Whatever you’d like! We’ve got tons of amazing homemade seasoning blends over on TheCookful. If you’re snacking on them, try salt and vinegar seasoning. Getting added to a salad for some crunch? Boost the flavor with taco or ranch seasoning. Maybe even some cinnamon for a crispy ice cream topping. I want to hear all your combinations!

Making Air Fryer Crispy Chickpeas

First, set the air fryer temperature to 375°F. In a medium bowl toss together the chickpeas, oil, and salt. If you’re adding other seasonings sprinkle that in as well. When the chickpeas are well coated, transfer them to the air fryer basket. 

Insert the basket into the air fryer and set the timer for 20 minutes. After about five minutes, you’ll hear some popping noises, which is normal. As the chickpeas expand from the heat, some will break open and “pop,” almost like popcorn. 

Shake the basket halfway through cooking to redistribute the chickpeas and ensure even cooking, but also to check for doneness. Because all air fryers are different, you may need a little less time, or five or so minutes more, so it’s important to check the chickpeas at the halfway point when it’s time to shake the basket.

Transfer your crispy chickpeas to a serving bowl and enjoy. I haven’t had much luck storing them for long periods of time, only about a day before they start to lose their crispness. I don’t mind making frequent batches though since it’s so quick and easy.