Step 1: Preheat Your Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas - In a colander, rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water. Drain them well and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier they will become when roasted.
Step 3: Season the Chickpeas - In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the dried chickpeas to the bowl and toss everything together until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Spread on a Baking Sheet - Transfer the seasoned chickpeas to a rimmed baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t crowded, as this will help them roast evenly.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection - Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the chickpeas for about 25-30 minutes, stirring them halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy - Once they are golden brown and crunchy, remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later!