Spicy Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Indulge in these irresistibly crunchy Spicy Crispy Roasted Chickpeas, the ultimate guilt-free snack! Bursting with flavor and incredible texture, they make for a perfect midday pick-me-up or a savory party treat. With a kick of spice from the cajun seasoning and a hint of garlic and onion, every bite promises to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, these protein-packed morsels are not just addictive; they're also a healthy choice that can help boost your metabolism. Just be sure to have a refreshing drink handy, as they may leave you wanting more! These roasted chickpeas are best enjoyed fresh, so prepare to wow your friends and family with your snack game.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
2 (15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
Cooking spray
as needed
Cajun seasoning
1 (heaping tablespoon)
Garlic powder
1 (teaspoon (optional))
Onion powder
1 (teaspoon (optional))
Cayenne
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the chickpeas.
2
Drain the garbanzo beans in a strainer and rinse them thoroughly under cool water. Shake the strainer to remove excess water, then let the beans sit for a few minutes until well-drained.
3
Cover a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray, ensuring an even coating. Spread the drained chickpeas onto the sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded.
4
Use a few sheets of paper towel to gently press down on the chickpeas, absorbing any remaining moisture to improve crispiness.
5
Spray the top of the chickpeas lightly with cooking spray, then sprinkle the cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using) evenly over the beans.
6
Gently shake the baking sheet to distribute the seasonings evenly. Make sure the chickpeas remain in a single, even layer.
7
Place the baking sheet on the lowest rack of your oven and roast for 35-45 minutes. Check every 15-20 minutes, gently shaking the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The chickpeas will be done when they are golden brown and crispy.
8
Once finished, remove the baking sheet from the oven, and carefully transfer the roasted chickpeas to a heat-safe bowl with a tight-fitting lid to allow them to cool down.
9
Enjoy your roasted chickpeas immediately or store them in the bowl for optimal freshness, or place them in a ziplock bag for later snacking.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Crispy Roasted Chickpeas?
They are an irresistibly crunchy, protein-packed snack seasoned with Cajun spices, garlic, and onion, perfect for healthy snacking.
How do I make roasted chickpeas crispy?
To ensure maximum crispiness, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly and then pat them dry with paper towels to remove all surface moisture before roasting.
What temperature should I roast the chickpeas at?
The chickpeas should be roasted in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to roast chickpeas?
Roasting typically takes between 35 to 45 minutes on the lowest oven rack until they are golden brown.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, these roasted chickpeas are naturally vegan as they contain no animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including chickpeas and spices, are naturally gluten-free.
Are roasted chickpeas healthy?
Yes, they are a healthy choice that is protein-packed and can help boost your metabolism.
Do I need to rinse the chickpeas before roasting?
Yes, you should drain the garbanzo beans in a strainer and rinse them thoroughly under cool water before use.
Why is it important to pat the chickpeas dry?
Absorbing remaining moisture with a paper towel is a crucial step to improve the final crispiness of the snack.
Can I use a different oil instead of cooking spray?
The recipe calls for cooking spray to ensure an even, light coating, but you could use a small amount of oil if necessary.
What if I do not have Cajun seasoning?
While Cajun seasoning provides the signature flavor, you can use a mix of paprika, thyme, and pepper as a substitute.
How do I prevent the chickpeas from burning?
Check the oven every 15-20 minutes and gently shake the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Where is the best place in the oven to roast them?
For best results, place the baking sheet on the lowest rack of your oven.
How many cans of chickpeas are required?
This recipe requires two 15-ounce cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas).
How do I store leftover roasted chickpeas?
Store them in a bowl with a tight-fitting lid or a ziplock bag to maintain their freshness.
Can I make these extra spicy?
Yes, you can add cayenne pepper 'to taste' to increase the spice level of the snack.
Is garlic powder mandatory for this recipe?
No, garlic powder is listed as an optional ingredient, though it adds great flavor.
Is onion powder mandatory for this recipe?
No, onion powder is optional, but it helps create a more savory taste profile.
How do I know when the chickpeas are finished roasting?
They are done when they appear golden brown and have reached a crispy texture.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but you must soak and boil them until tender before proceeding with the roasting instructions.
What is the best way to cool the chickpeas?
Transfer them to a heat-safe bowl with a tight-fitting lid to allow them to cool down safely after roasting.
Can these be eaten as a meal?
They are primarily intended as a snack or a topping, but they are very filling due to the high protein content.
Are these good for parties?
Yes, they make for a perfect savory party treat that guests can enjoy by the handful.
Does roasting chickpeas affect their nutritional value?
Roasting preserves the protein and fiber content, making them a nutritious alternative to fried snacks.
Should the chickpeas be in a single layer?
Yes, make sure they are spread in a single, even layer and not crowded to ensure they roast properly.
What should I drink with these?
Since they are spicy and salty, it is recommended to have a refreshing drink handy.
How much Cajun seasoning should I use?
The recipe recommends one heaping tablespoon of Cajun seasoning for two cans of chickpeas.
Can I use these as a salad topper?
Absolutely, their crunch and spice make them an excellent healthy alternative to croutons in salads.
Are these chickpeas best enjoyed fresh?
Yes, they are best enjoyed immediately after cooling to ensure they are at their crunchiest.