Easy Crispy Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
A simple, crunchy, and protein-packed snack, these roasted chickpeas are lightly seasoned with garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding to soups, they’re a healthy, fiber-rich alternative to chips. Quick to prep and baked until golden, they deliver a satisfying crunch every time.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring spoons (1 tbsp, ½ tsp)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan for plant-based option
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s fully heated by the time you’re ready to bake the chickpeas. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Make sure the parchment covers the entire surface and has a little overhang on the edges so you can easily transfer the chickpeas later.
- Drain and Rinse Chickpeas: Open your 15-ounce can of chickpeas and pour them into a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove the canning liquid, which can add extra sodium and sometimes affect flavor. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
- Dry Chickpeas for Crunch: Use paper towels to pat the chickpeas completely dry. Remove any loose skins that come off easily; this prevents sogginess during roasting. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier they will turn out, so take your time to ensure most of the moisture is gone.
- Toss Chickpeas with Seasonings: Transfer the dried chickpeas into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan if preferred). Gently toss everything together with a spoon or your hands until each chickpea is evenly coated with oil, seasoning, and cheese.
- Spread Chickpeas on Baking Sheet: Pour the seasoned chickpeas onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them into a single, even layer to allow hot air to circulate around each chickpea. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause uneven roasting and prevent the chickpeas from becoming crisp.
- Roast Chickpeas Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 45–50 minutes, shaking or stirring the chickpeas gently every 15–20 minutes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Keep a close eye on them during the last 10 minutes; they should turn a beautiful golden brown and emit a toasty, savory aroma.
- Optional Parmesan Finish: Once roasted, remove the chickpeas from the oven. For extra flavor and a visual touch, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top while they’re still hot. This will slightly melt and create little golden crispy bits that add depth to each bite.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the chickpeas to cool for 5–10 minutes on the baking sheet. Cooling helps them firm up even more and achieve maximum crunch. Serve them immediately as a snack, or sprinkle over salads and soups for added texture and flavor.
- Storage Tips: If you plan to store leftovers, wait until the chickpeas are completely cooled. Transfer them to an airtight container and keep at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. Avoid storing in the fridge, as moisture can soften them. To revive any lost crispiness, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Enjoy Your Crunchy Creation: Take a moment to appreciate the golden, crunchy, and flavorful chickpeas you just made. Perfectly seasoned, packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and good fats, these chickpeas are a healthy snack that satisfies cravings without guilt. Enjoy them on their own, as a salad topper, or added to soups for an irresistible crunch.
Notes
- For maximum crispiness, drying the chickpeas thoroughly is essential—any residual moisture will make them soggy.
- You can remove loose skins before roasting to improve texture, but it’s optional.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: add more garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a bolder flavor.
- Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so check the chickpeas after 40 minutes and adjust as needed.
- Vegan option: swap Parmesan with a plant-based alternative. The flavor will remain savory and satisfying.
