Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these crispy eggplant garlic chips. The combination of the earthy eggplant and the punch of garlic creates a delicious snack that never disappoints. Each chip turns out perfectly crunchy, and I enjoy serving them as an appetizer or a side dish. The best part is that they're easy to whip up, so even when I'm short on time, I can create a delightful treat that my family and friends will rave about. Plus, they are a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:10:06.467Z

When I first experimented with making crispy eggplant chips, I wasn't sure how the texture would turn out. I sliced the eggplant thinly, sprinkled salt, and let it sit to draw out moisture. This method really makes a difference, transforming the chips into a crunchy delight. I've tried various seasonings, but garlic remains my favorite for its robust flavor that pairs so well with the eggplant.

Another tip I've learned is to use a wire rack while baking. It allows the hot air to circulate around the chips, ensuring they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy. I can't resist munching on these chips right out of the oven—they're simply addictive!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect crunch with a rich garlic flavor.
A healthier snack alternative that satisfies cravings.
Easily customizable with your favorite spices.

      

Understanding the Eggplant's Role

Eggplant isn't just the main ingredient; it serves as a natural vessel for absorbing flavors. When you salt the eggplant before cooking, it draws out excess moisture, which enhances its texture and ensures that your chips achieve maximum crispiness. This step is vital; without it, the chips may remain soggy or chewy, detracting from the desired crunch. Your eggplant should look slightly wilted after this process, indicating that enough moisture has been removed for optimal crispiness.

The choice of eggplants matters too. While globe eggplants are commonly used, Japanese or Chinese eggplants can be great alternatives due to their thinner skin and milder flavor. These varieties also have fewer seeds, resulting in a more pleasant texture. Regardless of the type you choose, be sure to pick firm, heavy eggplants for the best results.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic

Garlic not only delivers a robust flavor but also complements the eggplant's earthiness beautifully. When mincing garlic, aim for a fine dice to ensure even distribution throughout the eggplant slices. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, roasting the garlic before adding it can create a sweeter, less pungent flavor while still providing depth to the chips. This subtle adjustment can make a significant difference in the final taste profile.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. This twist on the original recipe can take your crispy eggplant garlic chips to the next level of flavor complexity. Remember to taste and adjust your seasonings; starting with a small amount enables you to control the heat level effectively without overwhelming the garlic flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to begin!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your crispy chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Season the Chips

Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant slices with olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until well coated.

Bake

Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chips cool completely on the rack. Serve as a snack or appetizer, and enjoy your crunchy garlic-infused eggplant chips!

Excellent! Now you're ready to enjoy your homemade crispy eggplant garlic chips.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider experimenting with other spices like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve these crispy eggplant garlic chips at a later time, consider prepping the eggplant in advance and storing it in the fridge for a few hours. Just remember to coat the slices with oil and seasoning just before baking to maintain their crispness. Stored properly in an airtight container, the baked chips can last up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh straight from the oven.

For freezing, lay the cooled chips in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen chips directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for an extra crunchy texture. Just keep an eye on them in the oven as they may need a few extra minutes to become crispy again.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy eggplant garlic chips are versatile and can be served in many ways. Consider pairing them with a creamy dip, like tzatziki or a roasted red pepper hummus, to complement the garlic flavor with a cool or smoky counterpart. They also work wonderfully as a crunchy topping on salads or grain bowls, adding an unexpected texture that will impress guests.

For a fun tasting experience, serve them alongside a variety of dips in a charcuterie-style arrangement. This setup not only highlights the chips but offers your guests an array of flavors to enjoy. You can even mix and match different spices on the chips, creating unique flavor profiles that cater to different preferences in your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, zucchini and sweet potatoes are great alternatives that also turn out crispy!

→ How can I store leftover chips?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crunchy.

→ Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them at 380°F (193°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

→ Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, the skin adds texture and nutrients, so there's no need to peel them!