Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips

Name: Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste; Chopped herbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips because they’re the perfect snack for any occasion. The combination of crispy texture and garlicky flavor makes them irresistibly delicious. It may sound simple, but the process of slicing the eggplant thinly and letting it sweat really enhances the flavors. I like to serve these chips with a dipping sauce, but they’re also wonderful on their own. You won’t believe how satisfying and crunchy they get in just a few minutes!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:49:15.376Z

When I first tried making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, I was amazed by how enjoyable the process was. The key is to salt the eggplant and let it sit, which draws out moisture and bitterness. I found that using a mandoline slicer made achieving the perfect thinness so much easier. It’s a game-changer for getting that satisfying crunch.

As I experimented with different seasonings, I discovered that garlic powder can be adjusted to taste, but I usually go heavy on it for a strong flavor. Pairing these chips with a homemade dipping sauce really brings them to life. It's a snack I can’t resist!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crunchy texture that satisfies any craving
Bursting with garlic flavor for a delightful snack
A healthier alternative to traditional potato chips

      

The Importance of Salting

Salting the eggplant is a crucial step that shouldn't be skipped. When you sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit, it draws out excess moisture, preventing them from becoming soggy during baking. This process, often referred to as 'sweating', enhances the overall texture. Aim for even coverage to ensure all slices benefit from this technique. After 20 minutes, you should see beads of moisture on the surface, which indicates the eggplants are ready to be rinsed and dried.

Another benefit of salting is that it helps to reduce bitterness in the eggplant, which can sometimes be prominent in larger varieties. By following this step, you ensure that your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips will have a pleasant, mild taste. Don’t worry about the saltiness; rinsing the slices afterward will wash away excess salt, leaving just the right amount to enhance flavor.

Choosing the Right Olive Oil

When selecting olive oil for your chips, opt for a high-quality extra virgin variety. This not only enhances the flavor of your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips but also contributes to a better texture. A robust olive oil brings depth, while a milder variety can offer subtlety, depending on your personal preference. I usually go for a peppery oil as it complements the garlic perfectly and adds a lovely aroma when baking.

It's also worth noting that using too much oil can lead to greasy chips. Stick to the 3 tablespoons recommended in the recipe, ensuring each slice gets a light coating. When tossing the eggplant, aim for a 'glossy' look, meaning they're well-coated without being drenched. This will help achieve that wonderfully crunchy texture when baked.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For optimal freshness, store leftover Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 3-5 days. Ensure the container is completely sealed to prevent moisture from ruining their crispiness. If you find they start losing their crunch, you can reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, which revives their original texture remarkably well.

If you're looking to meal-prep, consider slicing and seasoning the eggplant ahead of time. You can store the prepared slices in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together. Just be aware that if they sit too long, you might need to sprinkle a bit more garlic powder before baking for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

For the Chips

2 medium eggplants
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Optional Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Chopped herbs (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle salt generously over them. Let the eggplant slices sit for about 20 minutes to draw out moisture.

Preheat the Oven

While the eggplant is sweating, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Season the Chips

After 20 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove excess salt and moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the slices with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and additional salt if needed.

Bake the Chips

Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them alone or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different seasonings like paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Ensure your eggplant slices are evenly cut for consistent cooking.

Variations to Explore

While garlic powder is fantastic, feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mix. Both spices offer a unique flavor profile, enhancing the garlic without overpowering the eggplant. Alternatively, you could sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the chips in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

If you’re looking for a more substantial dip, consider blending the Greek yogurt with roasted red peppers or sriracha for a touch of heat. This transforms a simple sauce into a flavorful accompaniment, adding complexity that pairs beautifully with the crunchy chips.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your eggplant chips don’t turn out crispy, check your oven temperature and the thickness of your slices. Ensure they’re uniform, as uneven slices can lead to some being overcooked while others remain chewy. A quick look at the chips halfway through baking can help—if some slices are browning too quickly, you can rotate the baking sheet for more even cooking.

Another common issue is the chips sticking to the baking sheet. Using parchment paper is vital, but make sure your eggplant slices aren’t crowded. If they touch while baking, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Aim for a single layer, giving them space to cook evenly and achieve that desired crunchy texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe scales beautifully for larger gatherings. Just keep the same ratio of ingredients—2 eggplants can easily be doubled to make a larger batch. However, keep in mind that you may need to bake the chips in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which helps achieve that satisfying crispiness.

For variations in eggplant types, feel free to use Japanese or Chinese eggplants; their thinner skin tends to bake well as chips. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly, as different eggplant varieties have unique flavor profiles and moisture content. This flexibility makes it easy to cater to different palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of eggplants?

Yes, you can use Japanese or Chinese eggplants, but they may cook faster due to their smaller size.

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Store any leftover chips in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

→ Is it necessary to salt the eggplant?

Salting helps to draw out moisture and bitterness, resulting in a crispier chip. It’s highly recommended!

→ Can I fry these eggplant chips instead of baking?

Yes, frying will give you an even crispier texture, but baking is a healthier alternative.