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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips as a savory snack that's both satisfying and healthier than standard chips. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, I achieve that perfect crunch paired with the aromatic essence of garlic. These chips are fantastic for dipping or enjoying on their own, and they never fail to impress guests at gatherings. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up any leftover eggplant. Let’s dive into why I can’t get enough of these delicious bites!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:01:09.253Z

I first discovered how to make these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips during a summer gathering, where I wanted a snack that would offer both flavor and crunch. The trick is in slicing the eggplant thinly and letting it sit to draw out extra moisture. This step not only enhances the texture but also helps the garlic seasoning to adhere perfectly!

Over the years, I've perfected my method by experimenting with various spices. I find that baking them at a high temperature ensures a deliciously crispy finish. Pair them with an aioli or homemade dip for an elevated snacking experience that has become a staple in my kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly crunchy and addictive with a wonderful garlic aroma
A healthy alternative to traditional potato chips
Versatile enough to pair with your favorite dips or enjoy plain

      

Perfecting the Eggplant Texture

To achieve the perfect crispy texture, slicing the eggplant evenly is crucial. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. If your slices are too thick, they won’t crisp up properly and may end up chewy. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool to help achieve uniform thickness. Even slices ensure that every chip bakes evenly, giving you that delightful crunch you're looking for.

Don't skip the salting step! By sprinkling the sliced eggplants with salt and letting them rest for around 30 minutes, you draw out excess moisture. This step helps concentrate the flavors and allows for a crisper chip. Once rinsed and dried, the eggplants will be ready to soak up the olive oil and seasonings, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Baking Tips for Ultimate Crispiness

When baking your eggplant chips, using a parchment-lined baking sheet helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. Make sure to arrange the chips in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. This allows hot air to circulate freely around each chip, which is vital for achieving that golden, crispy finish. Space is key to avoiding sogginess.

During baking, keep an eye on the chips, especially after the 20-minute mark. Looking for a golden brown color and a fragrant aroma will help you gauge doneness. Flipping them halfway through promotes uniform cooking; if you find that some chips are browning faster, consider rearranging them on the tray to ensure even results.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chips

2 medium eggplants
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplant

Wash and slice the eggplants into thin rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.

Preheat Your Oven

While the eggplants are resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.

Season and Bake

After 30 minutes, rinse off the salt and pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant slices with olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Crisp Them Up

Bake the eggplant chips in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the chips halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dip or simply as a crunchy snack!

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container for a few days, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before baking, or experiment with other spices like cayenne for some heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week, but you can also extend their life by keeping them away from humidity, which can cause them to lose their crunch.

If you want to enjoy the chips later, consider re-crisping them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) before serving. This quick reheating can help revive their crunchiness, making them almost as good as fresh out of the oven. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

If you want to switch things up, try adding different spices or herbs to the chips for a unique flavor twist. Consider including a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat or dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. Mixing in nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy, making this a great option for vegan snacking.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different dips to serve alongside your crispy chips. Hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy avocado dip can complement the garlic flavors beautifully. You can also serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce or a homemade salsa for an added zing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of eggplant?

Yes, any variety like Japanese eggplant or globe eggplant can work, but ensure they are sliced thinly for the best texture.

→ How can I store the leftover chips?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryer the coated eggplant slices at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crispiness.

→ What dips pair well with these chips?

They go wonderfully with garlic aioli, tzatziki, or even a spicy salsa for an added kick.