Crispy Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas Recipe
I just made the most incredible snack, and I had to share it with you. These garlic parmesan roasted chickpeas are so crunchy and full of flavor; they’re completely addictive!
They remind me of those simple recipes that just blow you away with how good they are. They are a perfect little bite to have around the house. If you enjoy simple yet impressive dishes, you can also explore our guide to the Mini Veggie Burgers Recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the simple ingredients required to make this wonderfully crunchy snack.
- 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas – Also known as garbanzo beans, these form the base of our crispy snack. Canned chickpeas work perfectly here for convenience.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps the chickpeas get crispy and allows the seasonings to stick. A good quality extra-virgin olive oil will add a hint of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Provides that savory, aromatic garlic flavor without the risk of burning fresh garlic.
- ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest – Adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and oil.
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your personal preference.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – For the best results, grate your own cheese from a block. It melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Note: The quantities listed will yield about 2-3 servings.
Cooking Time
This recipe is quick to prepare and lets the oven do most of the work.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Equipment You Need
You don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe, just a few kitchen basics.
- Fine mesh strainer: For rinsing the canned chickpeas thoroughly.
- Large baking sheet: To spread the chickpeas out so they can roast properly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the chickpeas from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the chickpeas with oil and seasonings.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
Making these roasted chickpeas is incredibly simple. Just follow these steps for a perfect, crispy result every time. The key is ensuring the chickpeas are very dry and giving them enough space on the baking sheet to roast, not steam.
H3: Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chickpeas
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the can of chickpeas using a strainer and rinse them well under cool water. It’s crucial to dry them thoroughly. I like to spread them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently pat them dry, removing any loose skins that come off.
H3: Step 2: Season the Chickpeas
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dried chickpeas with the olive oil, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final toss to ensure every chickpea is covered in cheesy goodness.
H3: Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this will help them get crispy. Bake for 45-50 minutes, making sure to toss them about halfway through the cooking time. This ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
H3: Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. You can enjoy them immediately while they are warm. For an extra boost of flavor, feel free to sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan cheese over them as soon as they come out of the oven.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making these a few times, I’ve picked up some tricks that take them from good to great.
- Get Them Bone Dry: I can’t stress this enough. The dryer your chickpeas are before you add the oil and seasonings, the crispier they will become in the oven. I sometimes let them air-dry on a towel for about 30 minutes after patting them.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: This small ingredient makes a huge difference. It adds a brightness that perfectly balances the savory garlic and rich Parmesan.
- Single Layer is Key: Make sure the chickpeas have plenty of space on the baking sheet. If they are too close together, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in a softer texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Watch Them Closely: Ovens can vary. Keep an eye on the chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent them from burning. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color.
Variations to Try
This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but you can easily customize it with different flavors.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika and a ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the garlic powder for a smoky, spicy version.
- Herbaceous Twist: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning for a more complex, earthy flavor.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: You can easily make this recipe vegan by swapping the Parmesan cheese for a high-quality vegan Parmesan alternative or by using 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor. This is one of those simple and adaptable dinner recipes everyone can enjoy.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
These chickpeas are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways.
- Enjoy them on their own as a healthy, crunchy snack.
- Use them as a crouton substitute to add texture and flavor to your favorite salads.
- Sprinkle them over soups, like a creamy tomato or butternut squash soup, just before serving.
- Add them to a charcuterie or snack board for a unique and delicious element. For another impressive but easy dish to add, check out our Condensed Milk Lemonade Recipe.
Calories Count
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for this recipe.
- Calories: 594 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 81.6 g
- Protein: 22.2 g
- Fat: 20.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.2 g
- Cholesterol: 7.8 mg
- Sodium: 1262.4 mg
- Fiber: 15.6 g
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
Proper storage is key to keeping your roasted chickpeas crispy.
- Roasted chickpeas are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made for maximum crunch. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- If they lose some of their crispiness, you can place them under the broiler for a minute or two to bring back the crunch. I do not recommend freezing, as it will ruin their crispy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these easy-to-make roasted chickpeas.
- Incredibly Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and impressive snack.
- Perfectly Crunchy: This recipe delivers that satisfying crunch everyone loves in a good snack.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, making this a nutritious alternative to chips.
- Amazingly Versatile: You can enjoy them as a snack, salad topper, or soup garnish.
- Easily Customizable: It’s simple to adjust the seasonings to create different flavor combinations.
