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, sliced thinly; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love snacking, and these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips have quickly become my go-to treat. They are not only addictive but also a fantastic way to enjoy eggplant in a crispy, flavorful form. The combination of garlic and spices enhances the natural taste of the eggplant, making it a delightful alternative to regular potato chips. Plus, they're baked instead of fried, giving you a guilt-free snacking option that still packs a punch in flavor. I can't wait for you to try these out!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:40:22.328Z

When I first tried making crispy chips out of eggplant, I was surprised at how well they turned out. Initially, I was skeptical about the texture, but coating the eggplant slices in a garlic-infused oil really brought out the best flavors. They became crispy and satisfying, just like I had hoped!

One thing I learned is that slicing the eggplant evenly is key to ensuring that all the chips cook uniformly. I also like to let them sit for a bit after baking to achieve maximum crunchiness. Trust me, these will become a staple in your snack routine!

        Why You'll Love These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
        Crispy texture that satisfies your snack cravings
Garlic aroma that fills your kitchen and delights your palate
A healthier alternative to traditional chips without sacrificing flavor

      

Choosing the Right Eggplant

When selecting an eggplant for this recipe, choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a glossy skin. These indicate freshness and ripeness, which are crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor. Avoid eggplants with blemishes or soft spots, as they can signify overripeness or spoilage. A medium to large eggplant is typically best, as it will yield enough slices without being overly bitter or spongy.

Before slicing, wash the eggplant thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. If you tend to find eggplant’s flavor a bit bitter, consider salting the slices for a longer period—up to 30 minutes. This not only draws out moisture but also helps counteract bitterness. Just remember to rinse and pat them dry before proceeding to the next steps.

Perfecting Your Garlic Oil Mixture

The garlic oil mixture brings an essential flavor component to the eggplant chips. For a more robust garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the olive oil for about 5-10 minutes before mixing in the other spices. This allows the oil to infuse with the garlic and can enhance the overall taste when baked. If you're a fan of spice, adjust the cayenne pepper level based on your heat tolerance.

As the eggplant slices bake, the oil mixture will help them crisp up beautifully. You may notice the garlic brown slightly in the oven, which is perfect—just be careful not to let it burn, as that will impart a bitter taste. Keep an eye on the chips during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they reach that perfect golden brown without overdoing it.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your crispy eggplant chips:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, sliced thinly
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

These ingredients work together to create a flavor explosion in every bite!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your wonderful crispy eggplant chips:

Prepare the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Lay them flat on a paper towel and sprinkle salt over the slices.

Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Create the Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create a garlic oil mixture.

Coat the Eggplant

After 15 minutes, wipe off any moisture from the eggplant slices. Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with the garlic oil mixture, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy eggplant garlic chips as a snack or appetizer!

These chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for a few days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or Parmesan cheese on top of the garlic oil before baking.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftover eggplant garlic chips, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can last for up to two days. For crispy texture, avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can make them soggy. If you want to enjoy them later, consider reheating in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch.

For a longer-term solution, you can freeze the uncooked eggplant slices after they have been salted and dried. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to bake fresh chips whenever you want without having to prep them from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with a creamy dip like tzatziki or a spicy aioli to elevate your snacking experience. Alternatively, they can be used as a crunchy topping for salads or soups, adding both texture and flavor. I personally love to serve them as a centerpiece for a casual gathering or party platter alongside assorted dips.

Consider experimenting with seasonings for different flavor profiles! You could try adding nutritional yeast to the garlic oil mixture for a cheesy flavor, or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or oregano over the chips right after baking. These variations can keep your snacking experience exciting and tailored to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado or coconut oil, but olive oil adds a delightful flavor.

→ How can I store the leftover chips?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may lose some crispiness.

→ Can I use a different seasoning mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs.

→ Is it necessary to salt the eggplant?

Salting the eggplant helps to draw out moisture and bitterness, resulting in better texture.