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Crispy Chickpea Nuggets (Vegan & Gluten-Free, Air Fryer or Baked)

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5 from 2 reviews

These crispy chickpea nuggets are the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Made with simple pantry staples like chickpeas, panko breadcrumbs, and savory spices, they’re packed with plant-based protein, naturally vegan, and easy to make gluten-free. Whether you air fry or bake them, these nuggets turn out golden and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally kid-approved. Ideal for meal prep, lunchboxes, or a quick vegan lunch or snack, this recipe is a must-try for any healthy home cook!

  • Total Time: with chilling 40-50 minutes: without chilling 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 nuggets 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or aquafaba (chickpea liquid)

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (adds a cheesy flavor)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt + pepper to taste

  • 1-2 tbsp gluten-free flour- helps bind

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs- for coating

Instructions

  1. Mash the chickpeas:
    In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher. You want most mashed with a few chunks left for texture.

  2. Season & bind:
    Mix in oil or aquafaba, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and flour.  Stir until a thick dough forms. Add a bit more flour if too wet or sticky.

  3. Shape into nuggets:
    Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and form into nugget or nugget-style patties.

  4. Coat with panko:
    Roll each nugget in a shallow dish of panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to help them stick.

  5. Air-fry or bake:

    Air fryer:
    Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray nuggets with oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

    Oven:
    Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with oil. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and browned.

Equipment

  • Author: Lindsey
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • chill time (optional): 15-20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 air fry/20-25 baked
  • Category: air fryer recipes
  • Method: air fry-bake
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://ourplantbasedfamily.com/crispy-chickpea-nuggets-vegan-gluten-free-air-fryer-or-baked/