📋 Instructions

1. 1Heat the air fryer — Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes. A hot basket gives you that first sizzle the second the chickpeas land.
2. 2Dry the chickpeas — Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then spread them on a clean kitchen towel and rub gently until the skins loosen and the surface feels matte, about 3 minutes. Pick out any loose skins that come free.
3. 3Toss with oil and spices — In a bowl, toss the dried chickpeas with the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, and half the salt until every pea glistens. You want an even, thin coat, not a pool at the bottom.
4. 4Air fry the first round — Spread them in a single layer in the basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes. Listen for the rattling sound and peek for edges turning golden brown.
5. 5Shake and finish — Pull the basket out and shake it firmly, then cook another 5 to 6 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until they look deep golden and sound dry and hollow when you shake the basket. If a test one crunches cleanly with no soft center, they're done.
6. 6Season and cool — Tip them onto a plate, sprinkle with the remaining salt and the lemon zest if using, and toss. Let them cool 2 minutes, then taste one, and taste again.