Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium eggplant; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips! The crunchiness, combined with a burst of garlic flavor, transforms a simple eggplant into a delicious snack. These chips are perfect for when you crave something salty yet healthy, and they pair beautifully with dips or even on their own. I find the texture and flavor absolutely addictive, making them a go-to whenever I have friends over or just want to indulge myself. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring that I can whip them up quickly any time I need a satisfying munch.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:17:04.977Z

I remember the first time I tried making eggplant chips; I was shocked at how well they compared to potato chips! The key is to use the right thickness when slicing the eggplant—too thick and they won’t crisp up, too thin and they may burn. I found that about 1/8 inch was perfect, delivering that crispy texture but still holding in some flavor.

To enhance the garlic flavor, I recommend letting the eggplant slices soak in a garlic-infused oil for a few minutes before baking. This preps them for robust seasoning and ensures every bite bursts with flavor. Experimenting with different spices can also be fun; I sometimes add smoked paprika, which adds a delightful smokiness.

        Why You Will Love These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
        Irresistible crunch that satisfies all chip cravings
Flavorful garlic infusion that elevates the eggplant
Healthy alternative to traditional chips without sacrificing taste

      

The Eggplant's Role

Eggplant serves as the perfect base for these chips due to its spongy texture, which absorbs flavors exceptionally well. The unique quality of eggplant allows it to take on the savory essence of garlic and olive oil, resulting in an irresistible taste. Make sure to select a medium-sized, firm eggplant, as this will yield the best results. Look for ones with smooth, shiny skin, as they will typically be fresher and younger.

Allowing the soaked eggplant to rest with salt helps overcome its naturally bitter flavor. This process, known as sweating, draws out excess moisture and bitterness, leading to a crispier chip. If you've never done this before, you'll see how much moisture is released, which makes a significant difference in texture once baked.

Perfecting the Coating Technique

Coating the eggplant evenly with the garlic oil mixture is crucial for achieving consistent flavor and crunch. I find that using a large mixing bowl makes it easy to toss the slices thoroughly without damaging them. Ensure each piece is well-coated but not dripping; otherwise, they might become soggy during baking. A light touch is key here—mix gently but thoroughly.

If you're looking to mix things up, feel free to add your favorite herbs to the garlic oil. Dried oregano or thyme can complement the garlic beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile. You could also experiment with other spices, like cayenne for heat or nutritional yeast for a cheesy note, making these chips versatile for various palates.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips:

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything prepared, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy eggplant chips:

Prep the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into 1/8 inch thick rounds and place them on a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Prepare the Seasoning

In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.

Coat the Eggplant

After 10 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Toss them in the garlic oil mixture, ensuring each slice is evenly coated.

Bake the Chips

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the chips cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving bowl. Enjoy your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips!

These steps will lead you to a delicious snack that everyone will love!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist, or even sprinkle some cheese on top before baking for an extra flavor boost.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored for later. Keep unused chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you notice any softening, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispness.

To make things even simpler, consider doubling the recipe. You can freeze the uncooked, seasoned eggplant slices by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While these chips are fantastic on their own, pairing them with dips can elevate your snacking experience. Try serving them with a homemade garlic aioli or tzatziki for refreshing and complementary flavors. Hummus also works wonderfully, adding creaminess to the crispy texture.

You can also use these chips as a unique topping for salads or grain bowls. Simply break them into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over your dish for added crunch and a boost of flavor. It’s a delightful way to use these chips that goes beyond traditional snacking!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini and sweet potatoes also work wonderfully for this chip recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp them in the oven if they lose their crunch.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Arrange the coated eggplant slices in the air fryer in a single layer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, checking for crispiness.

→ What dips go best with these chips?

A creamy garlic dip or a tangy yogurt sauce pairs perfectly, but feel free to explore other dips like hummus or guacamole.