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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore making these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips! Each time I prepare them, I'm reminded of how their delightful crunch and subtle garlicky flavor can elevate any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, they come together quickly and easily. I love to serve them as a snack with my favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad. The best part? They satisfy my craving for something crunchy without derailing my healthy eating habits. You definitely need to try these chips; you'll be hooked!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:43:05.664Z

The first time I made these crispy chips, I was shocked by how easy they were to prepare! Simply slicing the eggplant thinly and tossing it with garlic powder and olive oil transformed it into a deliciously crunchy snack. I recommend letting them bake until they're golden brown for the best texture. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

One key tip is to sprinkle sea salt on the eggplant slices before baking; it draws out moisture and amplifies that crispiness we all love. I often find myself making a double batch because they disappear so quickly. Enjoy them with a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra twist!

        Why You'll Love These Chips
        Light and crispy texture that satisfy crunch cravings
Infused with aromatic garlic and a hint of saltiness
Versatile as a snack or a healthy side dish

      

Choosing the Right Eggplant

Selecting the right eggplant is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in your chips. Look for a large eggplant that's firm to the touch, with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants with soft spots or discoloration, as these can indicate overripeness. If possible, choose an eggplant that feels heavy for its size. This generally indicates more flesh and less air, leading to a better chip.

Moreover, consider the type of eggplant you use. While the classic globe variety is perfect for this recipe, you can experiment with Japanese or Chinese eggplants for slightly different flavors and shapes. Just keep in mind that thinner varieties may require less baking time, so adjust accordingly to prevent burning.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking is where the magic happens for these eggplant chips. To ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness, it's essential to arrange them in a single layer without any overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate around each slice, helping them dry out and achieve a perfect crunch. If your baking sheet isn't large enough, consider using two sheets to avoid crowding.

Midway through baking, flipping the chips is key to avoiding sogginess. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you want to remove them when they're golden brown, but check often around the 20-minute mark to prevent burning. The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your slices, so this visual cue is critical.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are ready to enjoy, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Spread the cooled chips on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a zip-top bag. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) to restore their crunch.

These chips aren't just great on their own; they're incredibly versatile! Serve them with a zesty dip like hummus or tzatziki for an extra layer of flavor. You can even sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast on top before baking for a cheesy twist. Pair them with a fresh salad or use them as a crunchy topping for soups to elevate your meal to new heights.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious crispy chip experience:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Make sure to prep and adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your crispy eggplant garlic chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick, and place them in a bowl.

Season the Chips

Drizzle the olive oil over the eggplant slices, then sprinkle with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Bake

Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy your crispy eggplant garlic chips!

These chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a short time.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, experiment with different seasonings like paprika or nutritional yeast. You can also try cutting the eggplant into various shapes for a fun presentation.

Ingredient Insights

The use of garlic powder in this recipe not only adds flavor but also provides a more concentrated garlic taste compared to fresh garlic. This ensures that every chip is flavorful without the risk of burning that fresh garlic can present during the baking process. For a punchier profile, you could substitute garlic powder with smoked garlic powder for an interesting twist that adds depth as well.

Olive oil is a healthy fat that helps the eggplant become crisp while imparting a rich flavor. However, if you're looking for alternatives, avocado oil has a similar smoke point and can do the job just as well. This substitution can lend a slightly different flavor, complementing the natural taste of the eggplant.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chips come out soggy, it may be due to overlapping slices or insufficient baking time. Ensure the slices aren’t touching, and if you notice some chips aren't crisping up, leave them in the oven a few minutes longer while monitoring their progress. Remember, even the best bakers encounter the occasional batch that isn't perfect, so don't get discouraged!

For those cases where the chips burn, it could be attributed to an oven that runs hot or the slices being too thin. Always bake at the recommended temperature and consider testing with a few slices first. Finding the right balance of thickness that works for your oven will yield the best results.

Flavor Variations and Add-ons

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat. Alternatively, experiment with dried herbs such as oregano or thyme for a Mediterranean flair that complements the eggplant beautifully. Don't be afraid to tailor the seasonings to match the dish you're serving these chips with.

Another fun variation is to coat the eggplant slices with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan, and Italian seasonings before baking. This will give them a more hearty texture and an Italian-inspired flavor profile that’s sure to please. Just be sure to watch the baking time, as breadcrumb-coated items may cook faster.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of eggplant?

Yes, feel free to use any variety, but Asian eggplants tend to work well due to their smaller size and tender texture.

→ How can I make these chips spicier?

Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder when seasoning the eggplant slices for some heat.

→ Can I air fry these chips?

Absolutely! You can air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What should I serve with these chips?

They pair wonderfully with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or even a spicy salsa. Go wild with your favorite combinations!