Crispy Chickpea Veggie Nuggets

Name: Crispy Chickpea Veggie Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup grated carrot; 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Chopped fresh dill (to taste); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I love making Crispy Chickpea Veggie Nuggets for a healthy snack or a fun meal. These nuggets are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but they pack a delightful crunch with each bite. The combination of chickpeas and veggies creates a satisfying texture that both kids and adults enjoy. I often serve them with a homemade dipping sauce or toss them into a salad for a protein boost. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a guilt-free indulgence that I can feel good about serving.

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:57:36.120Z

Creating these Crispy Chickpea Veggie Nuggets has been a game-changer in our kitchen. I experimented with various vegetables and spices, finally settling on a blend that gives the nuggets an irresistible flavor profile. My secret? A hint of smoked paprika adds depth while remaining kid-friendly. I also found that using a food processor helps achieve the perfect consistency for the chickpeas and veggies, which makes all the difference.

What I love most is how versatile these nuggets are! They can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main. Last week, I made a large batch and froze the extras, which turned out to be a lifesaver during a hectic week. Just pop them in the oven, and you have a wholesome meal ready in no time!

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
Perfect for meal prep or snacks on the go

      

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are the star of these nuggets, providing a hearty base rich in plant-based protein and fiber. Their neutral flavor allows them to absorb spices beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. It's essential to rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture. If you're short on time or ingredients, canned chickpeas work perfectly in this recipe, but cooked dry chickpeas are also an option for a more wholesome feel.

Incorporating grated carrot and finely chopped bell pepper adds both moisture and sweetness to these nuggets, balancing the earthiness of the chickpeas. The carrots offer a vibrant color and a slight crunch, while the bell peppers infuse a fresh, crispy element. For variations, try substituting zucchini or sweet potato, ensuring to remove excess water to maintain the nugget's structure.

Fresh herbs, like parsley in this recipe, are crucial for brightness and flavor. They not only enhance the taste but also provide a nutritional boost. Substituting with basil or cilantro can give a different character to the nuggets without losing their essence.

Perfecting Texture and Flavor

For optimal texture, pulse the mixture until it's just combined but still retains some chunkiness; this prevents the nuggets from becoming too dense. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs, which can help absorb excess moisture while maintaining a light texture. You can also chill the formed nuggets for about 15-20 minutes in the fridge before baking, which helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that coveted crispiness. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking. For even browning, flip the nuggets halfway through the baking time. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should turn golden brown with a firm exterior, indicating they're ready to come out.

Experimenting with spices is a great way to customize these nuggets to your liking. Try adding cumin for an earthy depth or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. Remember that spices should enhance, not overwhelm, so start small—just a sprinkle—and adjust based on your preference.

Ingredients

For the Veggie Nuggets

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup grated carrot
1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Chopped fresh dill (to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, grated carrot, chopped bell pepper, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is mixed but still slightly chunky.

Shape the Nuggets

Using your hands, form the mixture into small nugget shapes. Place them on a greased baking sheet.

Bake the Nuggets

Drizzle olive oil over the nuggets and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder to the mixture. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Chickpea Veggie Nuggets can be a versatile snack served alone or with a dipping sauce. For a nutritious meal, toss them on top of a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. You can also pair them with whole-grain wraps or pita bread, adding your choice of veggies and sauces for a satisfying lunch option.

I often whip up a homemade dipping sauce to elevate the flavors further. The creamy Greek yogurt base not only adds tanginess but also complements the nuggets' crunch perfectly. Experimenting with the level of dill can create a refreshing experience that contrasts beautifully with the baking spices.

For a fun twist, serve these nuggets on a shared platter, accompanied by a variety of dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or even a spicy aioli. This makes them a great appetizer for gatherings, encouraging everyone to enjoy a nutritious treat together.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These veggie nuggets are ideal for meal prep; you can make a larger batch and store them for later. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen nuggets, bake them directly from the freezer without thawing, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a crisp finish.

If you're looking to prep the nuggets in advance for a busy week, you can shape them and freeze them raw. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to your baking time. This ensures that you always have a healthy snack or meal option on hand.

For variations and dietary considerations, these nuggets can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt in the dipping sauce, adjusting seasoning as necessary for the best flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the nuggets in advance and freeze them. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even ground almonds as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

→ Are these nuggets gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.

→ Can I add cheese to the nuggets?

Absolutely! Adding a small amount of shredded cheese can enhance the flavor and texture.