Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love making these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips because they are the perfect snack—crunchy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. The best part is that they are not just delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips. Whenever I serve these at gatherings, they disappear in minutes! They’re incredibly easy to prepare, and the garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:34:12.236Z

When I first tried making eggplant chips, I was amazed at how well they crisped up in the oven. I had previously only grilled or sautéed eggplant, but baking them unleashed a whole new flavor profile. To elevate them further, I added garlic powder, which paired so nicely with the natural creaminess of the eggplant. It was surprising how much flavor I could achieve with just a few herbs and spices!

One tip I learned is to slice the eggplant thinly and evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly and become crispy all over. If you have the chance, let the slices sit with salt for about 10 minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture. Trust me, these chips will have you craving more!

Why You'll Love These Chips
Light and crispy texture that satisfies any crunch craving
Savory garlic flavor that enhances every bite
Perfectly baked with minimal oil for a wholesome snack

The Eggplant Choice

When making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, the choice of eggplant is critical for achieving the right texture. Look for firm, shiny eggplants with a vibrant deep purple hue. Avoid any that appear wrinkled or have soft spots, as these may have a bitter taste and excess moisture, making your chips soggy. Larger eggplants can be more bitter, so smaller varieties like Japanese or Japanese-style eggplants can provide a sweeter flavor and are ideal for this recipe.

Additionally, slicing the eggplant into uniform rounds is essential. If the slices are too thick, they won’t dry out properly and may end up chewy. A mandoline slicer is a useful tool here; it ensures consistent thickness, which aids in even baking. If you do not have a mandoline, just take your time to slice by hand, aiming for about 1/8 inch thick to achieve that perfectly crispy bite.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking eggplant chips requires careful attention to timing and temperature to avoid burning them. The range of 25-30 minutes at 425°F (220°C) is generally perfect, but keep an eye out for visual cues. You're aiming for a golden-brown color and a crisp texture. If you notice some chips browning faster than others, consider moving them around halfway through the bake or even removing the thinner slices earlier to prevent them from becoming overly dark.

Another helpful tip is to ensure that the eggplant slices are not overcrowded on the baking sheet. They should be in a single layer with a little space between them. This allows the heat to circulate properly, making sure each chip becomes crispy rather than steamed. If you’re making a larger batch, consider using multiple baking sheets and rotating them halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather up the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your crispy chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Lay them out on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Let them rest for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Season the Chips

After 10 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with more paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

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

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the chips cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy your crispy eggplant garlic chips as a delightful snack!

Enjoy these chips fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for later snacking.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try experimenting with different seasonings like Italian herbs or parmesan cheese. You can also use an air fryer to make these chips even crispier, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are versatile and can serve as a healthy party snack or a crunchy side for dips. Try pairing them with hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy salsa for added flavor. They can also be crumbled over salads for a unique texture or layered into sandwiches for an unexpected crunch.

For added fun, consider garnishing the chips with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil after baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh element that complements the savory garlic flavor beautifully. A sprinkling of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also elevate the taste profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover chips, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. They can last for up to three days at room temperature; just keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture. Reheating them in the oven for a few minutes can help restore some crunch if they soften over time.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the uncooked, seasoned eggplant slices instead of baking them. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just toss them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they crisp up perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of eggplant?

Yes, any variety of eggplant will work, but the texture may vary slightly. Japanese or Chinese eggplants tend to be less bitter.

→ How can I make these chips spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for an extra kick.

→ Can I store the cooked chips?

Yes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They are best enjoyed fresh, though!

→ Can I make these chips in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake them ahead of time; just crisp them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving.