Ranch Crispy Roasted Chickpeas are a crunchy and flavorful snack that’s perfect when you’re craving something a little salty and a little tangy. These chickpeas are roasted to a golden crisp and coated with a zesty ranch seasoning that gives them a nice kick without being too overpowering.
I love making these because they’re super simple to prepare and much healthier than typical chips or crackers. Whenever I have a bag of canned chickpeas, I just drain them, toss them with some ranch seasoning and a bit of oil, and pop them in the oven. It’s always fun to see how crispy they get, and I find myself snacking on them long before meals sometimes!
These crispy bites are great on their own, but I also like to sprinkle them over salads or add them as a crunchy topping to my favorite soups. Whether you need a quick snack to tide you over or something to bring to a gathering, these Ranch Crispy Roasted Chickpeas never disappoint. I’m pretty sure once you try them, you’ll be making these regularly too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Ranch Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas: The star here! Use canned chickpeas for ease. Be sure to dry them well to get that crispy finish. You can also use cooked dried chickpeas, but they must be very dry.
Olive oil: This helps the spices stick and aids in crisping. If you prefer, avocado or sunflower oil are great swaps.
Ranch seasoning: Store-bought mixes work well, but homemade ranch seasoning with dried herbs and garlic powder can be fresher and less salty.
Dried herbs & spices: Parsley, dill, chives, garlic, and onion powders create classic ranch flavor. You can adjust amounts or leave out dried chives if you don’t have any.
Spices like paprika and cayenne: These add depth and a subtle kick. Leave out the cayenne if you want it mild.
How Can You Get Chickpeas Extra Crispy When Roasting?
The key is removing moisture and even roasting:
- Dry thoroughly: After rinsing chickpeas, pat them with towels, then leave them a few minutes to air dry.
- Use a single layer: Don’t overcrowd the pan; overcrowding traps moisture and prevents crisping.
- Spread evenly: Make sure chickpeas aren’t stacked on top of each other.
- Stir or shake: Every 10 minutes during roasting, toss them to ensure they crisp evenly and avoid burning.
- Cool completely: Let them cool on the pan so they harden up before storing.
Following these tips helped me get the perfect crunch every time without burning the chickpeas. Patience while drying and slow, even roasting is the secret to success!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use a medium bowl to toss the chickpeas with seasonings easily.
- Baking sheet – A large, rimmed sheet helps spread the chickpeas in a single layer for even roasting.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat – Keeps the chickpeas from sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Measuring spoons – For precise seasoning and spice measurements.
- Kitchen towel or paper towels – To thoroughly dry the chickpeas before roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for extra heat and flavor.
- Cheesy twist: Toss with grated Parmesan or sprinkled cheese before roasting for a cheesy crunch.
- Herb mix: Use different dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for varied flavors.
- Sweet touch: Mix in a little honey or maple syrup after roasting for a sweet and spicy snack.
How to Make Ranch Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chickpeas:
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Ranch Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried chives (optional)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25–35 minutes to roast the chickpeas until crispy. You’ll want to add in a few moments for stirring during roasting and cooling time so they get perfectly crunchy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Chickpeas:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse the chickpeas well, then spread them on a towel and pat dry as much as you can. Getting rid of extra moisture helps make them crispy.
2. Mix the Seasoning and Coat Chickpeas:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil with ranch seasoning mix, dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried chives (optional), salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Toss in the dried chickpeas and stir until each one is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
3. Roast and Crisp:
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them in your preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes. Every 10 minutes, shake the pan or stir the chickpeas to help them cook evenly and get crispy all over. Keep an eye near the end to avoid burning.
4. Cool and Store:
Once the chickpeas are golden brown and crunchy, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. The cooling step is important as it helps them crisp up even more. Store your roasted chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and crunchy for about 3 days.
Enjoy these tasty Ranch Crispy Roasted Chickpeas as a healthy snack, a crunchy salad topper, or a savory addition to your snack mixes!
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Yes! If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender, then dry thoroughly before roasting to achieve the best crispiness.
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Chickpeas?
Store cooled chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay crunchy for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them lose their crispness.
Can I Make These Chickpeas Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Roast them a day ahead and keep in an airtight container. If they soften, re-crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
You can use other seasoning blends like taco seasoning, Cajun spice, or a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and dill for a homemade ranch flavor.