Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: paprika for extra flavor

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips as a delicious and healthy snack option. The combination of crispy texture and garlicky flavor makes these chips hard to resist. I enjoy them straight out of the oven or paired with a zesty dipping sauce. In just a few simple steps, you can create a perfect snack that’s perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying on your own. Trust me, once you try these savory treats, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:13:14.133Z

When I first decided to experiment with eggplant, I never imagined it could transform into such a delightful snack. Preparing these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips opened up a new world of snacking for me. I layered thin slices of eggplant with olive oil and garlic, and to my delight, they came out perfectly crunchy! The garlic aroma filled my kitchen, enticing everyone to taste them straight from the oven.

One particular tip that made all the difference was salting the eggplant beforehand. This not only removed excess moisture but also enhanced the flavor significantly. After letting them sit and then patting them dry, the result was chips that were not just crunchy but bursting with flavor. It's a simple step that I highly recommend if you're aiming for the best texture!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible garlic flavor with a satisfying crunch
Healthier alternative to traditional potato chips
Easy preparation with simple ingredients

      

Understanding Eggplant in Cooking

Eggplant serves as a fantastic base for these garlic chips, offering a unique flavor profile that's both mild and slightly sweet. Choosing the right eggplant is crucial; look for one that is firm, with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants with blemishes or soft spots as they can indicate overripeness. When sliced thinly, the eggplant transforms into crispy delights, making it a perfect substitute for traditional chips without compromising on flavor.

It's important to salt the eggplant before cooking. This step draws out excess moisture and helps to alleviate any bitterness in the vegetable. Letting the salted slices rest for 15 minutes not only removes water but enhances the final crunch factor. After rinsing, thoroughly pat the slices dry; moisture can hinder their crispiness during baking, leading to a chewy texture instead of the desired crunch.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking these eggplant chips requires attention to detail to achieve the perfect texture. Ensure that the oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the baking sheet inside. This ensures even cooking and a crispy finish. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer without overlapping on the baking sheet; good air circulation is vital for crisping. If your chips overlap, they will steam rather than bake, resulting in a soggy texture.

Flipping the chips halfway through baking is another essential technique. When you take them out of the oven at the 12-13 minute mark to flip, you should see golden edges developing. This helps both sides brown evenly and prevents burning. Keep an eye on them during the final few minutes, as baking times can vary. The chips are ready when golden brown and crisp, so avoid distractions to ensure they don't overcook.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

1 large eggplant
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: paprika for extra flavor

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out water.

Season the Slices

After 15 minutes, rinse off the salt and pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix the olive oil and minced garlic. Toss the eggplant slices in the garlic oil until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

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

Cool and Serve

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Enjoy them as a snack or appetizer!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try adding a sprinkle of cornmeal or breadcrumbs before baking. Make sure to use a sharp knife for even slicing, and experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the uncooked, seasoned slices. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag for up to a month. When you're ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Serving these chips can be as creative as you like! My favorite pairing is a homemade yogurt-based dip flavored with lemon and herbs. Alternatively, a spicy marinara sauce or a zesty cilantro-lime vinaigrette can elevate the flavor experience. For a twist, consider sprinkling them with nutritional yeast before baking for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Potential Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to personalize your eggplant chips. Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can lift the garlicky flavor, while a touch of cayenne pepper can introduce some heat. For a smoky twist, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. These adjustments add complexity and can cater to various taste preferences.

If you're looking to make this recipe even healthier or cater to a vegan audience, keep the ingredients clean by using certified organic products when available. Additionally, try substituting the olive oil with avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and can contribute to a unique flavor. Just remember that adjusting fats in recipes may affect texture, so balance is key.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry the eggplant chips at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh!

→ Can I use a different vegetable?

Absolutely! Zucchini or sweet potatoes can also be used to make crispy chips with similar methods.

→ Is there a way to make them spicier?

Yes! You can add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the olive oil before coating the eggplant for an extra kick.