Protein-Packed Crunchy Chickpea Poppers

Jane’s Crunchy Chickpea Poppers are a delicious, protein-packed snack that’s ready in minutes. Featured in the Challenge the Host segment of New Day New Chef, this simple recipe transforms a can of chickpeas into a warm, crunchy treat seasoned with nutritional yeast, Old Bay, pink salt, and black pepper.

Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are naturally rich in plant protein and fiber, making them a satisfying choice when hunger strikes. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these flavorful poppers are perfect for an afternoon snack, a party appetizer, or a crunchy topping for salads and grain bowls.

Why Chickpeas Are Such a Popular Plant-Based Protein

Chickpeas, also called garbanzo beans, have become a staple ingredient in plant-based cooking for good reason. They’re packed with protein and fiber, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. From hummus and soups to curries and salads, chickpeas can be used in countless ways.

In this recipe, they take center stage as a crunchy, savory snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Combined with nutritional yeast and flavorful seasonings, these Garbanzo Poppers deliver plenty of flavor while providing a healthy dose of plant-based protein in every bite.

Don’t Toss the Aquafaba

Before draining the chickpeas from the can, save the liquid. That liquid is called aquafaba, and it can be used in some recipes in place of eggs. Aquafaba is especially useful in vegan baking because it can be whipped and used to create light, airy textures.

One delicious way to use aquafaba is in the Lemon Meringue Pie from Vintage Vegan on UNCHAINEDTV. Instead of pouring the chickpea liquid down the drain, save it for another plant-based recipe.

Big Flavor From Simple Ingredients

Nutritional yeast adds a savory, cheesy flavor without dairy, while Old Bay seasoning brings a bold blend of herbs and spices. Avocado oil helps the seasonings coat the chickpeas as they warm in the skillet, and a touch of pink salt and black pepper rounds out the flavor.

The result is a quick snack with crunch, warmth, and plenty of personality. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and perfect for days when you want something homemade without spending much time in the kitchen.

Two Recipes, One Episode

Jane makes these Garbanzo Poppers in the same episode that features Malcolm from Tapped In Wellness and his Lentil Smash Burger Tacos, another recipe you won’t want to miss. While Jane turns chickpeas into a quick, protein-packed snack, Malcolm shows how lentils can become flavorful smash burger tacos with fresh toppings and creamy burger sauce.

Watch this episode of New Day New Chef on UNCHAINEDTV for Jane’s Crunchy Chickpea Poppers, Malcolm’s Lentil Smash Burger Tacos, and more creative plant-based cooking inspiration.

All episodes of the new season of New Day New Chef are available now only on UNCHAINEDTV.

Print Recipe

Crunchy Chickpea Poppers

Servings: 3 Servings

Author: Jane Velez-Mitchell

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas drained and patted dry
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon pink salt or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Add chickpeas and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to dry them out slightly.
• Add avocado oil and stir to coat.
• Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, Old Bay seasoning, pink salt, and black pepper.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes, until hot and lightly popping in the pan.
• Serve warm as a snack.