Gratinated chickpeas in an air fryer are one of those snacks you wouldn’t expect, ones you wouldn’t think could become so addictive. I can’t do without them since I discovered them.
In terms of appreciation, I rank them almost at the same level as potato chips.
And the nice thing is that I can eat them without guilt. That’s because they have a coating of cornstarch, breadcrumbs, paprika, onion, and chili pepper.
Chickpeas in an air fryer are filling, curb nervous hunger, and don’t leave you craving more after five minutes. They work when you have little time but also when you want to serve something that seems well-thought-out, as they change roles depending on the context: serious appetizer, smart snack, or crunchy element that elevates a simple dish.
The air fryer dries without drying out and concentrates flavors instead of dispersing them in oil.
In short, you just have to try them!
I also recommend
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 2 People
- Cooking methods: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All Seasons
Ingredients for Gratinated Chickpeas in Air Fryer
Recipe for Gratinated Chickpeas
- 7.8 oz cooked chickpeas
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried red chili pepper
- 1/2 chopped onion
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- to taste fine salt
Tools
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Chopper
- Paper Towels
Steps for Gratinated Chickpeas in Air Fryer
For a perfect preparation WATCH THE VIDEO RECIPE
Drain and dry the cooked chickpeas well
They should be as dry as possible: this is the first secret to crunchiness. Pat them with kitchen paper until they’re not damp.
Place the chickpeas in a bowl with the cornstarch and mix well. Add the salt, paprika, chopped onion, chili pepper, extra virgin olive oil, and breadcrumbs. Mix well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Place the chickpeas in the basket of the air fryer in one single layer. Cook at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
Let them rest for 2–3 minutes outside the air fryer: residual moisture evaporates, and they become even crunchier.
Taste and, if needed, adjust with salt or spices. Serve hot or warm.
Storage
To store air-fried cooked chickpeas, let them cool completely before storing: never close them while hot.
Place them in a non-airtight container
Keep them at room temperature, in a dry place
They stay decent for 24 hours. Beyond that, they inevitably start to lose crunchiness.
Freezing is not recommended
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FAQ (Questions and Answers)
What other spices can I add?
You can add turmeric and dehydrated garlic.

