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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always been on the lookout for a delicious snack that satisfies my cravings without the guilt. These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips have quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of the naturally sweet eggplant and the savory garlic creates an irresistible flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, they bake to a perfect crisp, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional potato chips. I promise, once you try them, they’ll be a staple in your snack rotation!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:37:10.204Z

When I first made these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to prepare. The key to achieving the perfect crisp is to slice the eggplant thinly and allow it to sweat with salt before baking. This removes excess moisture and enhances the eggplant's flavor. Pairing it with crushed garlic and a sprinkle of olive oil elevates the taste further.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily change the seasoning to suit your taste, whether you want something spicy or more herby. On movie nights, I pair these chips with our favorite dips, and they disappear in no time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies chip cravings
Savory garlic flavor that elevates the eggplant
Healthier alternative to traditional chips

      

Mastering Eggplant Prep

The way you prepare the eggplant is crucial for achieving the perfect crispness. Slicing the eggplants thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, allows them to cook evenly and get that desirable crunch. If you're looking for even more precision, a mandoline slicer is a great tool for uniform thickness. After salting, let them rest in the colander; this not only draws out moisture but also reduces any bitterness, ensuring a more delightful flavor in your final product.

It's important to rinse the eggplant well after the salting phase to remove excess salt. Patting them dry with paper towels is equally essential, as moisture will impede the crisping process in the oven. By ensuring the eggplant slices are as dry as possible before tossing them with the garlic mixture, you're setting the stage for those perfectly crunchy chips.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking eggplant chips can be a bit tricky if your oven isn't calibrated well. Consistency is key, so make sure to arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, as overlapping can lead to uneven cooking. If you're unsure about timing, keep an eye on them and rely on visual cues. Once the chips turn a light golden brown and start to feel firm to the touch, they're likely ready to come out of the oven.

If you desire extra crunch, after the initial 30 minutes of baking, consider leaving them in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Just be cautious; they can go from perfectly crisp to burned quickly. I find that rotating the baking sheet halfway through not only ensures even cooking but also helps in achieving uniform crispiness across all slices.

Ingredients

For the Chips

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

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants thinly and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Mix the Seasoning

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.

Coat the Eggplant

Rinse the eggplant slices to remove excess salt and pat them dry with paper towels. Toss the eggplant with the garlic mixture until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

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

Serve

Let the chips cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dip!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try air frying the eggplant slices. Adjust the cooking time as needed for your specific air fryer model.

Flavor Enhancements

While the garlic and paprika provide a fantastic flavor base, there are plenty of ways to customize your eggplant chips. For instance, you might consider adding a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Experimenting with different herbs like oregano or thyme can also elevate the taste profile and offer a unique spin each time you make them.

If you don't have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, though I recommend using a bit more than you would of fresh since the flavor is more concentrated. Additionally, swapping out olive oil for avocado oil can give the chips a different richness, while still keeping them healthy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To maintain their crunch, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between layers. If they start to lose their crispness, a quick reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes will help restore their snap.

These chips make a fantastic snack on their own, but if you're looking to elevate your serving game, pairing them with a homemade dip such as tzatziki or hummus can take your snacking experience to the next level. You can also serve them alongside a veggie platter for a crunchy, healthy contrast to softer items.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini and sweet potatoes work wonderfully as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these chips vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain any animal products.

→ What can I dip these chips in?

They go great with hummus, tzatziki, or a simple yogurt dip.