Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier the chickpeas, the crispier the result.

Step 3: Arrange on the Tray
Spread the dried chickpeas evenly across the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overlapping for uniform roasting.

Step 4: Season Before Roasting
Drizzle the chickpeas with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Stir or gently shake the tray to evenly coat all the chickpeas.

Step 5: Roast Until Golden
Roast in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove the tray, stir the chickpeas, then return to the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add Final Seasoning
While the chickpeas are still hot, immediately toss them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to evenly coat.

Step 7: Cool and Store
Let the chickpeas cool slightly on the tray they will continue to crisp up as they cool. Store them in a loosely covered container to keep their crunch.