Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon sea salt; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips! The other day, I was looking for a healthy snack option and stumbled upon this recipe. The combination of crunchy eggplant and garlic seasoning instantly drew me in. After a few trials, I perfected the method to get those chips just right—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor. I can’t wait for you to try these; they make for a perfect appetizer or a delightful addition to any meal!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:31:11.318Z

As I made these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips for the first time, I was amazed at how easy and rewarding they were. The key is slicing the eggplant thinly and letting it sit with salt to draw out excess moisture. This step makes a significant difference in achieving that irresistible crunch.

Another area where I experimented was in the seasoning. I’ve tried various combinations, but settling on garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of sea salt gave the most delightful flavor. Trust me, once you have these chips, you won't want to go back to regular snacks!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crunchy texture that satisfies your snack cravings
Bold garlic flavor enhancing the natural taste of eggplant
Healthy alternative to fried snacks

      

The Importance of Salting Eggplant

Salting the eggplant before cooking is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness. When you sprinkle salt on the slices, it draws out excess moisture, which can otherwise make the chips soggy. This method not only enhances the texture but also reduces bitterness often found in eggplants. After 30 minutes, you'll notice some beads of water pooling on the surface; this is a good sign that the salting has worked. Don’t skip this step if you want a perfect crunch!

After rinsing off the salt, make sure to thoroughly pat the eggplant slices dry. This step is equally important as excess moisture will inhibit the crisping process in the oven. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels for this. The goal is to remove as much moisture as possible so that the olive oil can create a satisfying crunch without introducing steam.

Choosing the Right Olive Oil

When it comes to the olive oil for this recipe, opting for a good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the overall flavor of your chips. The oil not only aids in crisping but also complements the garlic and smoked paprika seasonings beautifully. If you prefer a different profile, avocado oil can be an excellent substitute due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Keep in mind that while healthy oils are preferable, they also have a distinct flavor. You want to balance the oil's richness with the bold garlic and paprika flavors. I enjoy drizzling a bit more olive oil on the chips right before serving; it adds a lovely sheen and additional flavor that elevates the snacking experience.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips make a delightful snack on their own, but why not elevate them further? Consider serving them with a zesty yogurt dip or homemade hummus for a Mediterranean flair. The coolness of the dip pairs well with the warm, crispy chips, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.

For variations, experiment with different seasonings. You can try adding parmesan cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist or sprinkle some chili powder for heat. If you're looking for a whole different approach, try using thin zucchini slices instead of eggplant for a lighter alternative. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as zucchini may cook faster!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Enjoy your delicious homemade chips!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect crispy chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Allow them to sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.

Preheat Oven

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

Season the Slices

Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to retain their crispness.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs for coating prior to baking.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover chips—though it's hard to believe there will be any—store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their crispiness, as refrigerating can lead to moisture buildup. They should last for about 2–3 days; however, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked seasoned eggplant slices. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from frozen—no need to thaw. This way, you can enjoy fresh crispy chips anytime!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chips turn out softer than expected, chances are there was too much moisture left on the eggplant slices. Make sure to salt them adequately and pat them dry afterward. In some cases, overcrowding the baking sheet can also prevent them from getting crispy, so use multiple sheets if needed, and avoid overlapping.

In case they are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extend cooking time slightly. Always watch for that golden brown color at the edges, which is an indicator of perfect crispness. Every oven is different, so be prepared to adjust as necessary to ensure the best results.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is a breeze! Simply multiply the ingredients while keeping the same ratios. For larger batches, make sure to use multiple baking sheets, allowing enough space for airflow around the eggplant slices to achieve that wonderful crispness.

For smaller portions, you can easily halve the ingredients. This is a great way to experiment with different seasoning combinations without wasting resources. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can try using zucchini or sweet potatoes for a variation!

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Are these chips gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your seasoning does not contain gluten.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying works wonderfully! Just adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes.