Mississippi Lil’ Smokies are transformed into a delicious plant-based version with these Sweet and Spicy Chickpea Bites. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, these roasted chickpeas are coated in a sweet and tangy glaze with a hint of heat. Impress your guests with this easy and tasty recipe that’s also quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the drained chickpeas to the bowl and toss them gently in the maple glaze until fully coated.
- Spread the chickpeas evenly on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chickpeas are golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your sweet and spicy chickpea bites as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Variations:
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a non-vegan option.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist before serving.
- Mix in some roasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Notes:
- Ensure chickpeas are well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Taste the glaze before adding chickpeas to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- For even cooking, spread chickpeas in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with toothpicks as a party appetizer.
- Pair with a chilled white wine for a sophisticated snack.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal.
Tips:
- Ensure the chickpeas are completely coated with the glaze for full flavor.
- Roast until just crispy as they will continue to crisp up when cooling.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of bean?
Answer: Yes, feel free to experiment with black beans or white beans, though texture and cooking time might vary slightly. - How do I store leftovers?
Answer: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, these can be prepared ahead and stored, but they are best served fresh for maximum crispiness. - What can I serve these with?
Answer: They are a versatile snack and can be served as is or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Conclusion:
These Mississippi Lil’ Smokies inspired Sweet and Spicy Chickpea Bites offer a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, easily prepared for any occasion. Their crispy exterior and flavorful interior make them a crowd-pleaser, whether served at a party or simply enjoyed as a snack at home. Plus, they’re a healthy alternative to traditional snacks, perfect for those following vegan diets.
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Sweet and Spicy Maple Glazed Chickpea Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Mississippi Lil’ Smokies are transformed into a delicious plant-based version with these Sweet and Spicy Chickpea Bites. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, these roasted chickpeas are coated in a sweet and tangy glaze with a hint of heat. Impress your guests with this easy and tasty recipe that’s also quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the drained chickpeas to the bowl and toss them gently in the maple glaze until fully coated.
- Spread the chickpeas evenly on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chickpeas are golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your sweet and spicy chickpea bites as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, allow the chickpeas to dry completely before coating them in the glaze.
- These chickpea bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences for spiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per serving
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: chickpeas, snack, appetizer, vegan, spicy, sweet