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 thinly; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating snacks that are both delicious and healthy, and these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are a perfect example. With their crunchy texture and delicious garlic flavor, they make for an irresistible treat. I’ve experimented with different seasonings and cooking methods, and I’ve found that using a combination of baking and a light spray of olive oil results in perfectly crispy chips without any frying. These chips are not only great for snacking, but they also add a unique touch to salads or as a crunchy topping on soups.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:28:09.087Z

Creating these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips has been a delightful journey for me. I experimented with different vegetables, but eggplant really stood out for its ability to absorb flavor. The trick I discovered was slicing the eggplant thinly and allowing them to sweat out excess moisture, which ensures they turn crisp in the oven.

While testing the recipe, I found that adding just the right amount of garlic powder provided an amazing aroma and flavor burst. Pairing them with a sprinkle of sea salt enhances their taste beautifully! These chips have quickly become a staple in my kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crunchy texture that satisfies cravings
Baked not fried, making them a healthier snacking option
Garlic flavor that elevates the overall taste experience

      

Understanding Eggplant

Eggplant, with its unique texture and mild flavor, is a fantastic canvas for various seasonings. When selecting an eggplant for these chips, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has smooth, unblemished skin. The freshness of the eggplant directly affects the crispness of the chips, so avoid any that show signs of wilting or browning. Remember, the key to achieving the crispiest chips lies in slicing them uniformly and thinly, ideally around 1/8 inch thick.

Another important aspect is salting before baking. This step helps to draw out excess moisture from the eggplant, which is crucial for achieving that desired crunch. If you're in a hurry, you can forego the salting period, but this may result in less crispy chips. Trust me, taking that extra time enhances both the texture and the overall flavor.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Even heat distribution is vital for creating perfectly crispy eggplant chips. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the baking sheet inside; this ensures that the chips start cooking right away and develop a golden color. I recommend keeping a close eye on the chips during the last few minutes of baking; this is when they can go from perfectly crispy to overly brown very quickly, especially if you have varying thickness in your slices.

Using parchment paper on your baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also contributes to a more even bake. If you happen to have a wire rack, placing the eggplant slices on it while they bake can allow for air circulation underneath, which helps achieve an even crisper finish. This method does require a little extra attention, but the results are well worth the effort.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your chips:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, sliced thinly
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Make sure all of your ingredients are ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy eggplant chips:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chips will bake evenly and become nice and crispy.

Slice and Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Lay the slices on a towel and sprinkle salt over them. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Rinse and Dry

After 10 minutes, rinse the slices under cold water to remove the excess salt, then pat dry with a paper towel.

Season the Eggplant

In a bowl, toss the dried eggplant slices with olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and paprika (if using) until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Spread the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Cool and Serve

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dip!

Enjoy your crispy and flavorful eggplant chips!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding different seasonings like cayenne pepper or nutritional yeast to the eggplant slices before baking.

Storage Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. However, for the best flavor and texture, I recommend enjoying them fresh. If you find that they lose their crispness after a day, you can revive them by placing them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This should bring back some of that delightful crunch!

If you're planning to make a large batch for a gathering or to enjoy throughout the week, consider preparing the eggplant slices in advance and storing them in the refrigerator. Just follow the slicing and salting steps, then keep the seasoned slices in an airtight container for up to two days before baking. This way, you can quickly bake them when you're ready for a snack.

Serving Ideas

While these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are delicious on their own, they can elevate a variety of dishes. Consider using them as a crunchy topping for salads, adding a nice contrast to creamy dressings and fresh vegetables. They can also be sprinkled over soups as a delightful garnish, providing not just flavor but a kick of texture that enhances the entire dish.

For a fun twist, serve the chips alongside a selection of dips. A creamy yogurt or a zesty salsa pairs beautifully with the savory garlic flavor of the chips. You could even whip up a herb-infused cream cheese dip for a more decadent option. These ideas not only make the snack more versatile but also create an appealing presentation for entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different vegetable?

Absolutely! Zucchini and sweet potatoes also work well for making chips.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Why do I need to salt the eggplant?

Salting draws out moisture from the eggplant, helping to achieve a crispier texture when baked.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! You can cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.