Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, sliced into thin rounds; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips whenever I crave a snack that’s both healthy and delicious. The subtle sweetness of the eggplant complements the garlic perfectly, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in less than an hour. They're perfect for movie nights or as a crunchy topping for salads. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:01:24.222Z

In my kitchen, these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips have become a staple. The process starts with thinly slicing the eggplant and soaking it in saltwater, which draws out bitterness and helps achieve that perfect crisp. I always use a mix of olive oil and garlic powder for flavor—it's incredible how such simple ingredients come together to create something so addictive!

Each time I make these chips, I adjust the seasoning slightly depending on my mood; sometimes I add a sprinkle of paprika or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously addictive crunch with garlic flavor
Healthy alternative to traditional potato chips
Simple ingredients that anyone can master

      

Understanding Eggplant for the Best Chips

When preparing Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, choosing the right eggplant is key. Look for a firm, glossy eggplant with vibrant color, as this indicates freshness. If the skin is dull or wrinkled, it's best to select another one. The size of the eggplant doesn't matter much, but larger ones can have more seeds and a slightly more bitter taste. When sliced, a fresh eggplant will yield a smoother texture when cooked, resulting in perfectly crispy chips.

Salting the eggplant before cooking is vital since it draws out excess moisture and bitterness, which can lead to soggy chips. After 15 minutes of soaking in salted water, be sure to rinse the eggplant slices to eliminate excess salt. After patting them dry, they should feel slightly tacky, which helps the oil and seasonings adhere better, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking time is critical for achieving the ideal crunchy texture in these eggplant chips. Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark, as ovens can vary. You’re looking for a color shift from pale to a rich golden brown, along with crispy edges. Flipping the slices halfway through ensures even cooking on both sides for consistent texture. If you find certain chips browning faster, you can remove them to avoid burning.

To maintain that crunch after baking, allow the chips to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents steam from making them soggy. If you want to store leftovers, let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container. They can last for about 2-3 days, but reheating them in the oven for a few minutes can restore their crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your eggplant adventure:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, sliced into thin rounds
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Now that you have everything ready, let's get those chips baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly crispy chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a bowl of salted water and let them soak for 15 minutes. This process helps remove bitterness and excess moisture.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Season the Eggplant

After soaking, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the slices with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika (if using) until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway, or until golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the chips cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving bowl. Enjoy as a tasty snack or a crunchy topping!

Now that you have your crispy chips, enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, ensure your eggplant slices are evenly cut and try using a mandoline for uniform thickness. You can also experiment with different seasonings for variety!

Serving Suggestions

These eggplant garlic chips are versatile snacks that can complement a variety of dishes. Enjoy them on their own for a nutritious snack, or pair them with your favorite dip, like hummus or tzatziki. They also make a delightful addition to salads, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with leafy greens and creamy dressings.

For a unique twist at your next gathering, serve these chips as part of a charcuterie board. Include them alongside cheeses, olives, and cured meats. Their garlic flavor will harmonize with a wide range of toppings, making your snack spread both interesting and inviting.

Potential Variations

Feel free to experiment with the seasonings to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. Alternatively, you can try using different spices such as cumin or Italian herbs for a flavor profile that matches your meal or snack theme.

If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, you can choose to use cooking spray instead of olive oil. While this may alter the flavor slightly, it will still yield a decent crunch. Additionally, consider using an air fryer for a quicker cooking method that can reduce oil usage while still producing a satisfying crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of eggplant?

Yes, you can use any variety of eggplant, but slimmer varieties like Japanese eggplants tend to work best for chips.

→ How can I store leftover chips?

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They may lose some crispiness over time.

→ Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer, arrange the slices in the basket without overcrowding, and cook at 360°F (182°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

→ What dips pair well with eggplant chips?

These chips complement a variety of dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or guacamole.