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In the realm of healthy snacking, few options are as satisfying as crunchy, flavorful chickpeas. Today, we present a delightful recipe for Crunchy Air Fryer Nacho Cheese Chickpeas that combines the nutty goodness of chickpeas with a cheesy, spice-infused kick. Perfect for munching on during movie night or as a nutritious addition to salads, these air-fried chickpeas offer a guilt-free alternative to traditional snacks. This recipe not only satiates your cravings for something crunchy but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Let’s explore the ingredients, preparation, and benefits of this simple yet delicious recipe.

Air Fryer Nacho Cheese Chickpeas

Discover a delicious twist on snacking with Crunchy Air Fryer Nacho Cheese Chickpeas. This easy recipe turns nutritious chickpeas into a crunchy, cheesy treat that’s perfect for movie nights or as a salad topping. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors from spices and nutritional yeast, these chickpeas offer a healthy alternative to traditional snacks. Enjoy guilt-free crunchiness while boosting your diet with this delightful and simple recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon taco seasoning

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)

Optional: fresh cilantro or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chickpeas: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer warms up, take the cans of chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. After rinsing, drain the chickpeas well and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry meticulously to remove excess moisture; this step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crispiness.

    Season the Chickpeas: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry spice blend. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt. Give these ingredients a quick mix to ensure they are evenly distributed. Pour the olive oil into the bowl, followed by the dried chickpeas. Toss everything together until each chickpea is generously coated with the oil and spice mixture.

      Add Nutritional Yeast: Next, sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the seasoned chickpeas. Toss once more to ensure that the chickpeas get evenly coated with the nutritional yeast, enhancing their flavor with a delicious cheesy touch.

        Air Fry the Chickpeas: Carefully transfer the seasoned chickpeas into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are laid out in a single even layer. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through to promote even cooking and crispiness.

          Check for Crispiness: At around the 15-minute mark, check the chickpeas for doneness. You want them to be perfectly crispy and golden brown. If they’re not quite there, return them to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

            Cool and Serve: Once they are cooked to your desired crunchiness, carefully remove the chickpeas from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a few minutes; they will continue to harden as they cool. For a delightful finish, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or chives if desired.

              Enjoy: Serve your flavorful Nacho Cheese Chickpeas as a satisfying snack, a fun appetizer, or sprinkle them on top of salads and bowls for an extra crunch.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the chickpeas in a rustic bowl or a stylish platter, garnished with vibrant cilantro or chives. Consider pairing with a spicy salsa or guacamole on the side for a complete snacking experience!