Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips! The combination of earthiness from the eggplant and the robust flavor of garlic makes these chips incredibly addictive. I find that baking them instead of frying provides the perfect crunch without the extra grease. Paired with a sprinkle of salt and a hint of paprika, they become a delightful snack. Whether I’m serving them as an appetizer or munching on them while watching a movie, they never fail to satisfy my cravings for something crispy and delicious.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:10:13.235Z

When I first decided to make Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, I was searching for a healthy snack alternative that didn’t skimp on flavor. I adjusted the cooking temperature and time to achieve that perfect crispiness while keeping the eggplants tender inside. A quick soak in salt water before baking enhances their flavor and helps draw out moisture, which is essential for achieving the crunch I crave.

Another tip I discovered is to use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices. This ensures that all chips cook uniformly, preventing any from burning while others remain chewy. Once I added a sprinkle of garlic powder before baking, I knew I had found my new favorite snack. Now, I can’t get enough of these chips!

        Why You Will Love These Chips
        Crispy texture that satisfies every crunch craving
Savory garlic flavor that elevates the humble eggplant
Healthy alternative to traditional potato chips

      

Mastering Eggplant Slices

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture in these chips lies in how you slice the eggplant. Aim for slices that are around 1/8 inch thick; this allows for even baking and optimal crispiness. Using a mandoline can help ensure uniformity, but a sharp knife works just as well. After slicing, soaking the eggplant in salted water helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, which can lead to a tougher chip if neglected.

When draining and patting dry the eggplant slices, ensure that they are thoroughly dried. This helps prevent steaming during baking, which can yield soggy chips instead of the desired crunch. A paper towel does an excellent job of removing moisture, so don’t skip this step. If you notice any dark spots on your eggplant slices after soaking, simply trim them away to maintain an appealing look and flavor.

Flavor Fusion

The combination of garlic and paprika plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavor profile of these chips. Selecting fresh, high-quality garlic will impart a robust and aromatic essence, elevating the savory notes of the eggplant. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, consider using garlic powder instead of fresh, adjusting the amount to taste, as it typically has a more concentrated flavor.

Paprika not only adds a hint of smokiness and color but also contributes a depth of flavor that complements the earthiness of the eggplant. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different paprikas like smoked or sweet varieties to create a unique spin on the classic recipe. A pinch of cayenne can introduce a spicy kick, making these chips even more irresistible to those who enjoy a heat factor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Ingredients

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

Now that you have everything, let's move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants into thin rounds using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Soak the slices in a mixture of water and salt for 15 minutes, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel.

Season the Slices

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the eggplant slices and toss well until all are evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Arrange the coated eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy them warm or store in an airtight container for later!

These chips are perfect for snacking or serving with dips!

Pro Tips

To add variety, experiment with different spices such as cayenne pepper for heat or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips fresh, store them in an airtight container once they've cooled completely. They will stay crisp for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you prefer a longer shelf life, consider freezing them. Ensure they are cooled and fully dry, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crunch.

If you find that your chips have lost some crispiness during storage, a quick re-bake can refresh their texture. Spread them out on a baking sheet and return them to the oven at the same temperature for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are hot and crunchy again. This method ensures you don’t have to waste any leftovers while enjoying their addictive crunch once more.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with a homemade dip, like tzatziki or garlic aioli, to enhance their flavor and create an exciting appetizer. Alternatively, they make excellent toppings for salads or grain bowls, adding a crunchy contrast to softer textures and a pop of flavor that elevates the whole dish.

For a fun twist, consider layering these chips in a sandwich or a wrap. The crunchiness offers a delightful textural contrast to creamy spreads and fresh vegetables. You could also mix these chips into trail mix or as a topping for soups, giving an unexpected crunch that takes your dish to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables besides eggplant?

Yes! Zucchini and sweet potatoes also work great as alternatives.

→ How can I store leftover chips?

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

→ Is it necessary to soak the eggplant slices?

Soaking helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness, leading to a crunchier texture.

→ Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.