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: 1 large eggplant; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips because they are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional potato chips. The first time I made them, I was blown away by how easy they are to prepare and how satisfying they taste. With just a few ingredients, including garlic and spices, you can transform eggplant into a crunchy snack that is perfect for any occasion. They are a great way to enjoy veggies without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:43:20.071Z

When I first experimented with making crispy snacks at home, I knew eggplant would be the perfect vegetable to work with. After a few trials, I discovered that slicing the eggplant thinly and soaking it in salted water helped draw out moisture and bitterness, resulting in a chip that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

The key to getting that perfect garlicky flavor is to use fresh garlic and add it to the oil before tossing with the eggplant. This method ensures that every chip is infused with that irresistible garlic aroma, making for a deliciously satisfying snack!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously crispy texture that satisfies crunchy cravings
Rich garlic flavor with a hint of spice that elevates the taste
Healthy alternative that's perfect for guilt-free snacking

      

Mastering Eggplant Preparation

To achieve the best texture for your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, it’s crucial to slice the eggplant evenly. Using a mandoline slicer can help you obtain consistent 1/4 inch rounds. This uniformity allows for even cooking, preventing some slices from burning while others remain chewy. If you find that your eggplant has a lot of seeds, choose younger, smaller ones, as they tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds, leading to a more enjoyable chip.

Salting the eggplant before cooking is an essential step. This process not only helps to draw out moisture, resulting in a less soggy chip, but it also reduces bitterness. After resting for 20 minutes, make sure to rinse off the salt thoroughly; otherwise, your chips may end up overly salty. Patting them dry with paper towels ensures that your garlic oil adheres nicely, contributing to the maximum flavor and crispiness.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Preheating your oven to the correct temperature is key to achieving perfectly crispy chips. You want to ensure the oven reaches 400°F (200°C) before placing the eggplant inside. A hot oven promotes better moisture evaporation, which is vital for crunchiness. Additionally, using parchment paper provides a non-stick surface, so your chips won't stick while baking, allowing for easy cleanup.

During the baking process, it's important to flip your chips halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness. You should look for a golden brown color and a slightly curled edge on the chips as indicators that they're done. Baking times may vary based on your oven and the thickness of your slices, but check for doneness around the 25-minute mark, as this can lead to perfectly crisp chips without overbaking.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create your delicious chips!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Preheat the Oven

While the eggplant is resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Combine and Bake

Rinse the eggplant slices under running water to remove excess salt, then pat them dry with paper towels. Toss the slices in the garlic oil mixture until well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, garlicky snack!

Now that you’ve made your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, enjoy them on their own or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite dips!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic oil before tossing with the eggplant.

Flavor Variations

While the garlic and paprika provide a robust flavor base, you can easily customize your chips by experimenting with different spices. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding crushed oregano and dill. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, incorporate chili powder or even some grated Parmesan cheese before baking to add a savory cheese flavor that complements the garlic well.

You can also try marinating the eggplant slices in the garlic oil mixture for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the eggplant, resulting in a more flavorful chip. Use fresh herbs or alternate spices like cumin or coriander to infuse the oil with a unique taste that resonates with your palate.

Storage and Reheating

If you’re making these chips in advance, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. However, for the best texture, I recommend consuming them within the first couple of days as they tend to lose their crispiness over time. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can make them soggy.

To restore crispiness to chips that may have softened over time, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can pop them back into an air fryer for a few minutes which brings back their delightful crunch without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?

Yes! Zucchini or sweet potatoes can also be used in place of eggplant.

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

→ What can I dip these chips in?

These chips pair wonderfully with hummus, tzatziki, or your favorite creamy dip.

→ Is there a way to make these chips even healthier?

You can reduce the oil or bake them without the olive oil for a lighter version.