Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium eggplant, sliced thin; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Instant Planning

I’ve always been a sucker for crunchy snacks, and these Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips have become my go-to delight. They satisfy that craving for something crispy and savory without the guilt. In just a short time, I can whip up a batch that is perfect for sharing during movie nights or enjoying on my own. It’s incredible how versatile eggplant can be; when baked to perfection, it transforms into a flavorful chip that is both nutritious and delicious.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:09:34.744Z

When I first made these Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips, I wasn't sure how well they would turn out. After some experimentation with seasonings and baking times, I discovered the perfect method! The key is to slice the eggplant evenly and give it a light sprinkle of salt to draw out moisture before baking. This helps them turn out extra crispy!

I love serving these chips as a healthy snack alternative during gatherings. I often pair them with homemade dips like hummus or guacamole to elevate the flavor. It’s amazing how such a simple recipe can become a family favorite, particularly for those who don't usually enjoy vegetables!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy and crunchy texture that satisfies snack cravings
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
A healthier alternative to traditional potato chips without sacrificing flavor

      

The Importance of Eggplant Preparation

Proper preparation of the eggplant is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips. By slicing the eggplant into rounds about 1/8 inch thick, you ensure even baking, allowing the chips to crisp up nicely without becoming chewy. Don't skip the salting step; it helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a chip that is more flavorful and less soggy. After sitting for 15 minutes, rinse and pat dry to prevent any residual saltiness from overwhelming the flavor.

Another tip is to be mindful of the eggplant variety you choose. While globe eggplants are commonly used, Japanese or Italian varieties can provide a sweeter, milder flavor. Their thinner skin and fewer seeds can enhance the overall chip experience, delivering a more delicate texture. If you have the chance to experiment, I recommend testing different types to see which flavor profile you prefer.

Baking Tips for Perfect Chips

When baking the eggplant chips, preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is key to achieving that perfect crispness. A hot oven helps to evaporate moisture rapidly, allowing the chips to dry out and crisp up more effectively. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also promotes even cooking, essential for getting that lovely golden color on all sides of the chips.

During the baking process, flipping the chips halfway through ensures they brown uniformly. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes; chips can go from perfectly crispy to overdone quickly. You’re looking for a beautiful golden hue and a lightly crunchy texture. If you find that they're getting darker on the edges too soon, you can lower the temperature slightly or spread them out more on the baking sheet.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting your Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips.

Ingredients

1 medium eggplant, sliced thin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before beginning the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your garnish Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips.

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Lay them out on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Allow to sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Season the Chips

Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove salt, and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the eggplant slices in this mixture until evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the chips cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Serve them warm or store in an airtight container for later.

Enjoy your homemade Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider experimenting with different seasonings like chili powder or nutritional yeast before baking.

Storage and Reheating

If you're making a larger batch of crispy eggplant chips, storage is straightforward. Once completely cooled, transfer them to an airtight container, where they can last for up to a week. Just be aware that storing them may cause them to lose some crunch over time. To combat this, you can reheat them by spreading the chips out on a baking sheet and warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This revitalizes their crispiness and restores some of that fresh-baked goodness.

For a long-term option, consider freezing your eggplant chips. Spread the cooled chips on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you're ready to snack, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the original baking time. This method can help you always have a healthy snack at the ready.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Crispy Eggplant Veggie Chips are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a delightful twist, pair them with a homemade yogurt dip or a zesty salsa. The coolness of the dip enhances the savory crunch of the chips, making for an irresistible snack. Alternatively, sprinkle them with nutritional yeast after baking for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Feel free to get creative with seasoning! Try adding different spices like cayenne for heat, or dried herbs like oregano and thyme for a Mediterranean flair. You can also experiment with flavored oils, like chili or garlic-infused olive oil, to deepen the flavor profile even further. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a new dimension to this healthy snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Zucchini and sweet potatoes also work well for making veggie chips.

→ How should I store leftover chips?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness.

→ Is it necessary to salt the eggplant before cooking?

Salting helps draw out moisture, making them crispier. However, if you're looking to reduce sodium, you can skip this step.

→ Can these chips be made in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a quicker version.