Sweet Chili Roasted Chickpeas

Name: Sweet Chili Roasted Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sweet Chili Roasted Chickpeas as a snack or crunchy topping for salads. They fulfill my cravings for something savory yet slightly sweet, and they're incredibly simple to whip up. The combination of chickpeas coated in a sweet chili sauce and roasted to perfection creates a delightful texture and flavor. I often prepare them while I'm meal prepping for the week, and they last perfectly in an airtight container. Trust me, you'll want to make a batch of these for your next get-together or movie night!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:34:17.864Z

When I first made Sweet Chili Roasted Chickpeas, I was surprised at how addictive they turned out to be! I combined a few pantry staples to create the sweet chili sauce that perfectly coats each chickpea. The key is to roast them until they are crispy, which enhances their natural nuttiness and brings out the wonderful flavors of the chili sauce.

Over time, I've experimented with different spices, and I've found that a touch of smoked paprika adds a nice depth to the flavor profile. These chickpeas are versatile; you can enjoy them on their own, toss them into a salad, or use them as a crunchy topping for your grain bowls. The possibilities are endless!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies every crunch craving
Perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors
High in protein and fiber for a nutritious snack

      

The Importance of Roasting Time

Getting the roasting time right is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in your sweet chili roasted chickpeas. I recommend setting the timer for 30 minutes, but keep an eye on your chickpeas during the last 5-10 minutes. You'll want to see them turn a beautiful golden brown, indicating they've reached that perfect level of crunchiness. If they start to darken too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid burning while still finishing the cooking process.

Consistency in size is another key factor to ensure even roasting. If your chickpeas are roughly the same size, they will cook uniformly, preventing some from being overcooked while others remain soft. Before baking, make sure to shake off excess moisture after rinsing, as this will help them crisp up in the oven.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the sweet chili sauce adds a delightful flavor to the chickpeas on its own, consider experimenting with additional spices to elevate your snack. For instance, a pinch of cayenne pepper can amplify the heat, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick. Alternatively, adding a sprinkle of cumin can lend an earthy undertone that balances out the sweetness.

Serving these chickpeas atop salads not only adds crunch but also transforms your dish into a hearty meal. You can mix them with a zesty cilantro-lime vinaigrette to create a satisfying treat. If you’re looking for an even more robust flavor, tossing them in a blend of nutritional yeast and olive oil post-roasting will add a cheesy depth without the dairy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Sweet Chili Roasted Chickpeas:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious roasted chickpeas:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the chickpeas

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, sweet chili sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Bake the chickpeas

Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Once done, let them cool slightly before enjoying. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give a nice kick if you prefer more heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These roasted chickpeas store wonderfully when kept in an airtight container, making them an excellent make-ahead snack for busy weeknights. They can remain crunchy for up to a week but should ideally be consumed within three to five days for the best texture. If you notice them losing their crispness, simply pop them back in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to rejuvenate their crunch.

If you're prepping for movie night, I suggest making a double batch! It’s straightforward to scale the recipe up, just ensure that your baking sheet isn’t overcrowded. An even layer allows heat to circulate effectively, promoting a delightful crunch on every chickpea.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chickpeas don’t seem to crisp up as expected, it could be due to moisture. Make sure your chickpeas are thoroughly dried after rinsing and draining. Using a clean kitchen towel to pat them dry can be an effective way to remove excess water before mixing them with olive oil and seasonings.

Another common issue can arise from using a non-stick pan. While it's convenient, sometimes it traps steam, preventing your chickpeas from reaching their full crisp potential. If you notice this happening, consider switching to a simple baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which allows for better moisture escape and crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand.

→ How can I store the roasted chickpeas?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for the best crunch.

→ Can I make these chickpeas spicy?

Absolutely! Just add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the mix before roasting.

→ Are these chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sweet chili sauce you use is gluten-free, this snack is suitable for gluten-free diets.