Air Fryer Falafel
Crispy and flavorful falafel made easily in the air fryer for a healthier twist on this classic Middle Eastern dish.
Reviewed by Savory Trail Test Kitchen · Published August 8, 2026 · Updated August 17, 2026
Using an air fryer to cook falafel results in a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. For best results, lightly spray the falafel with oil before air frying to enhance crispiness.
About this dish
Air fryer falafel is a lighter take on the classic Middle Eastern chickpea fritter. This version keeps the familiar mix of soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, and warm spices, then shapes it into small balls or patties for cooking.
The air fryer gives the falafel a crisp, browned exterior while keeping the inside tender and full of herby flavor. Because the mixture is made from soaked dried chickpeas rather than canned, the texture stays closer to traditional falafel and holds together well during the 12–15 minute cook time. Expect a snackable, savory bite that’s best served warm right after cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained)
- 0.5 cup onion (chopped)
- 2 pieces garlic cloves (minced)
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 spray cooking oil spray (for spraying falafel before air frying)
Instructions
- Soak dried chickpeas in water overnight, then drain well.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper until coarse but well mixed.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the falafel with cooking oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with tahini sauce, pita bread, and fresh vegetables.
Tips
Please verify air fryer temperatures and cook times as they can vary by model; adjust as needed to ensure falafel is cooked through and crispy.
Variations & substitutions
- Swap some or all of the parsley for more cilantro if you want a brighter, more citrusy herb flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the mixture for a little heat.
- Shape the falafel into flatter patties instead of balls for easier sandwich filling.
- Serve the cooked falafel in lettuce wraps or bowls instead of pita for a lighter meal.
- Use a different dipping sauce, such as hummus or a yogurt-garlic sauce, alongside the tahini.
What to serve with
- Tahini sauce is the classic pairing and adds creaminess to the crispy falafel.
- Warm pita bread makes it easy to build sandwiches or wraps.
- Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce add crunch and freshness.
- A simple salad with lemony dressing balances the earthy chickpeas.
- Pickles or pickled turnips bring a sharp, tangy contrast.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator for a short time before shaping and cooking. If it seems loose after chilling, form the balls or patties just before air frying.
Can I store leftover air fryer falafel?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within a few days for the best texture.
How do I reheat falafel so it stays crispy?
Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the exterior crunchy.
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried soaked chickpeas?
No, this recipe is designed for soaked dried chickpeas, which give falafel its proper texture. Canned chickpeas are too soft and can make the mixture mushy.
How do I know when the falafel is done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside after 12–15 minutes, with a set, cooked-through center. Turning them halfway helps them brown evenly.
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