These Chickpea Nuggets are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with plant-based protein! 🌱✨ Perfect as a snack recipe, kid-friendly meal, or meat-free alternative to traditional nuggets. Whether you’re dipping them in your favorite sauce or adding them to a meal, these Crispy Chickpea nuggets are a delicious and nutritious choice. Save this Nuggets Recipe for a quick, easy, and healthy snack!

Why You’ll Love These Chickpea Nuggets

These nuggets are a fantastic way to enjoy a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Here’s why they’re amazing:

Vegan and protein-rich – Chickpeas provide a hearty dose of plant-based protein.
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – A perfect texture that makes them irresistible.
Loaded with veggies – A sneaky and delicious way to add more vegetables to your diet.
Dippable and versatile – Pair them with your favorite sauces for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients for Chickpea Nuggets

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, cooked and drained
1 small zucchini, grated
1 small carrot, grated
1/4 cup onion, finely minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 flax eggs (or regular eggs if not vegan)
2 tbsp olive or avocado oil
1/2 cup oat flour or breadcrumbs

How to Make Chickpea Nuggets

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Blend the chickpeas and veggies – In a food processor, combine chickpeas, zucchini, carrot, onion, and seasonings. Pulse until well mixed but still slightly chunky.
Add binding ingredients – Stir in flax eggs and oat flour (or breadcrumbs) to help the mixture hold together.
Shape into nuggets – Form small, nugget-shaped patties and place them on the baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Chickpea Nuggets

Don’t skip the binding agent – Flax eggs work well, but if you’re not vegan, regular eggs will provide a firmer hold.
Customize your flavors – Add extra garlic, cayenne pepper, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami taste.
Get creative with veggies – Swap zucchini or carrot for bell peppers, spinach, or sweet potatoes.
Make them crispy – For extra crispiness, lightly pan-fry them in olive oil before baking.

What to Serve This Recipe

Vegan ranch dressing – A creamy, herby dip that complements the nuggets beautifully.
Sugar-free ketchup – A classic dipping option with a healthy twist.
Honey mustard sauce – If you’re not strictly vegan, this is a flavorful option.
Over pasta – Use these nuggets instead of meatballs in your favorite pasta dish.
With roasted potatoes – Serve with crispy, seasoned potatoes for a hearty meal.
With vegan cheese sauce – Drizzle butternut squash vegan cheese sauce for extra richness.

Storing and Reheating Chickpea Nuggets

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months – perfect for meal prep!
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or air-fry for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

More Vegan Recipes to Try

These Chickpea Nuggets are a must-try if you’re looking for a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional nuggets. Try them today and enjoy a crispy, satisfying bite!