Crispy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets: A Protein-Packed Delight

Looking for a delicious, plant-based alternative to chicken nuggets? These Vegan Chickpea Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with protein and fiber. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for meal prep, snacks, or even a kid-friendly dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ High in protein & fiber – Chickpeas and almond flour keep you full and satisfied.
✔ Easy to make – No complicated steps, just mash, mix, shape, and bake!
✔ Versatile – Bake them in the oven or air fryer for extra crispiness.
✔ Kid-approved – A great way to sneak in plant-based nutrition.

Ingredients

  • 400g (2 ½ cups) boiled chickpeas – The base for our nuggets.
  • Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder – For a flavorful kick.
  • 15ml (1 tbsp) extra virgin olive oil – Adds moisture and helps crispiness.
  • 60g (½ cup) almond flour or coconut flour – Binds the mixture.
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast – For a cheesy, umami flavor.
  • Salt & pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or air fryer to 200°C.
  2. Mash chickpeas in a bowl with a fork or potato masher (keep some texture).
  3. Mix in spices, olive oil, flour, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Shape into nuggets (about 16 total) using a spoon and your hands.
  5. Bake or air fry –
    • Oven: 15 mins, flipping halfway.
    • Air fryer: 10 mins, flipping halfway.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite dip (try vegan ranch or BBQ sauce!).

Nutrition (Per Serving – 4 Nuggets)

  • Calories: 217 kcal
  • Fat: 9.5g
  • Carbs: 24.8g
  • Fiber: 6.4g
  • Protein: 8.7g

Tips for the Best Nuggets

  • For extra crispiness, lightly spray with oil before baking.
  • Make them gluten-free by ensuring your flour and spices are GF-certified.
  • Meal prep-friendly – Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later!

These Vegan Chickpea Nuggets are a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty, healthy, and cruelty-free snack. Give them a try and let us know what you think! 🌱💛