Vegan Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas with Nutritional Yeast

Name: Vegan Cheesy Roasted Chickpeas with Nutritional Yeast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, (drained and rinsed); 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1 teaspoon crushed rosemary; 1 teaspoon dry thyme; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper

Jump to Recipe Save Recipe Print Recipe

These cheesy roasted chickpeas are packed with flavor and just happen to be plant-based, gluten-free, and protein-rich. Tossed with savory herbs and a generous coating of nutritional yeast (aka "nooch"), they're like vegan cheesy puffs made with pantry staples.

If you're looking for a crunchy snack or a fun salad topper with staying power, these roasted chickpeas are here for it. They're easy to make with pantry staples and endlessly customizable, too-just switch up the spices depending on your mood.

Vegan cheesy herb roasted chickpeas in mason jar next to baking pan.

Chickpeas are one of those pantry MVPs that always seem to deliver. Roasting them gives you that craveable crunch, while nutritional yeast adds a bold, cheesy flavor without any dairy. A mix of dried herbs rounds everything out for a snack that tastes anything but boring.

These are great on their own by the handful, but also work well as a topping for grain bowls, pasta, soups, or even avocado toast. You can also double the batch and store extras for lunchbox-friendly snacking throughout the week.

Looking for more roasted chickpea recipe ideas? Check out these Buffalo and Thai peanut variations.

Ingredients

These crispy roasted chickpeas come together with just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. Canned chickpeas offer a hearty, protein-rich base that turns golden and crunchy in the oven. Nutritional yeast adds a savory, cheesy flavor without dairy, while a blend of dried herbs and spices-including rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder-brings earthy depth and aromatic complexity. Grapeseed oil helps everything stick and ensures a crisp texture after roasting. (Substitute olive oil or any cooking oil you like.) A sprinkle of salt and pepper ties all the flavors together, making this a flavorful, high-fiber snack you'll want to keep on repeat.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chickpeas

For the crunchiest texture, make sure to thoroughly dry your chickpeas before roasting-this step makes a big difference. You can also remove the skins if you want them ultra crisp, though it's not essential. Spread them out in a single layer on your baking sheet and avoid overcrowding, which traps steam and softens the texture.

Let them cool completely before storing to keep that crispy bite. If they soften up over time, just pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crunch.

Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable depending on what you have in your pantry.

You can swap grapeseed oil with olive oil, avocado oil, or another neutral oil of your choice.
If you're out of nutritional yeast, try finely grated vegan Parmesan for a similar savory flavor.
Feel free to mix up the herbs-Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence are great all-in-one alternatives.
Want a spicier version? Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
For lower sodium, reduce the salt and skip seasoning blends that already contain salt.

Storage

Let roasted chickpeas cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, store them uncovered or loosely covered with a lid slightly ajar to help maintain crunch. If they soften over time, reheat in the oven at 375ºF for 5-10 minutes to crisp them back up. Avoid storing them in the fridge, as this can cause them to become chewy or soggy.

Vegan cheesy herb roasted chickpeas in mason jar against grey background.

FAQ

Is eating roasted chickpeas healthy?

Yes-roasted chickpeas are a nourishing, high-protein snack that's rich in fiber and plant-based nutrients. This version uses nutritional yeast to add cheesy flavor without dairy.

What is the best way to roast chickpeas?

For the crispiest roasted chickpeas, start by drying them thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels. Then toss them with a little oil and seasonings and roast at a high temperature-usually 400°F (200°C)-for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway. Letting them cool in the oven with the door cracked can make them even crunchier.

Why aren't my roasted chickpeas crunchy?

If your chickpeas turn out soft instead of crispy, they might not have been dried well enough before roasting, or your oven may not be hot enough. Overcrowding the pan can also cause steaming instead of roasting. Try spreading them out in a single layer and roasting for longer until they're golden and firm.

These cheesy roasted chickpeas are one of those simple recipes that checks all the boxes: nutritious, satisfying, and easy to make with what you already have. Whether you're looking for a high-protein snack, a crunchy salad topper, or a new way to enjoy chickpeas, this one's worth bookmarking.

And if you're looking for more plant-based snack ideas, check out my snack recipe collection.

📖 Recipe