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 medium eggplant; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I absolutely love making crispy eggplant garlic chips! It's one of those delightful snacks that always impresses friends and family. The satisfying crunch combined with the rich garlic flavor creates a perfect blend that's hard to resist. I've experimented with different spices and techniques, but I've found that thinly slicing the eggplant and giving it a good sprinkle of garlic powder before baking makes all the difference. They're perfect for a movie night or a light appetizer at gatherings.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:43:17.502Z

When I first decided to make crispy eggplant garlic chips, I was skeptical about how good they could really be. However, after perfecting my method, I was thrilled with the results! The key is to ensure that the eggplant is sliced thinly and evenly so they bake to a perfect crunch. A sprinkle of salt also draws out moisture, making them even crispier.

I've shared these with friends during game nights, and they never last long! One tip I found helpful was letting them rest on a wire rack after baking, which helps them stay crispy longer. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to whip them up time and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy texture that satisfies your crunch cravings
Garlic flavor that elevates the simple eggplant
Healthier alternative to traditional chip snacks

Key Techniques for Perfect Chips

When preparing your eggplant garlic chips, slicing the eggplant uniformly is crucial for even cooking. Aim for 1/8 inch thick slices; using a mandoline slicer can ensure consistency. This uniformity allows all slices to crisp up at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being over or undercooked. A good visual cue is a slight transparency in the slice; this indicates they will become crispy as they bake.

Another essential technique is salting the eggplant before cooking. By sprinkling salt on the slices and letting them sit, you draw out excess moisture which can lead to soggy chips. After 10 minutes, don't forget to rinse off the salt. This step not only enhances the flavor but also allows the chips to achieve that coveted crunch.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Eggplant is the star of this recipe, but not all varieties are created equal. Choose a medium eggplant that is firm with smooth skin. Smaller eggplants tend to have fewer seeds and less bitterness, leading to a tastier chip. If you have difficulty finding eggplant, zucchini can be a suitable substitute, though it may require slightly different cooking times due to its higher water content.

The olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also aids in the crisping process. If you prefer a different taste or need a lower fat option, avocado oil can be a great alternative as it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different seasonings, such as smoked paprika or parmesan cheese, can elevate your eggplant chips to a new flavor dimension.

Ingredients

For Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

1 medium eggplant
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the eggplant and slice it thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt, tossing well to coat. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Season and Arrange

After 10 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over the slices, then add garlic powder and black pepper. Toss to combine. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Chips

Bake the eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve immediately as a snack or appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper or your favorite seasoning to the eggplant slices before baking. Also, make sure not to crowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the chips to steam rather than crisp up.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover chips, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. However, they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you want to make these chips ahead of time, consider storing the eggplant slices in the refrigerator after salting and drying them. They can be prepped a day in advance and baked when ready to serve.

If you need to re-crisp leftover chips, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until they regain their crunch. This method is much better than microwaving, which tends to make them chewy rather than crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy eggplant garlic chips are versatile and can be served in various ways. They make an excellent standalone snack or can be paired with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy aioli for added flavor. The garlic notes in the chips complement many sauces beautifully, enhancing your snacking experience.

For a fun twist, consider using the chips in a layered dip. Create a healthy layer of guacamole, then sprinkle with your eggplant chips on top for a crunchy texture. This not only showcases the chips' versatility but also adds a gourmet touch to your party platter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?

Yes! Zucchini and sweet potatoes can also be used to make crispy chips.

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best crispiness.

→ What can I serve these chips with?

These chips pair well with hummus, salsa, or your favorite dip!

→ Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.