There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a delightful snack that catches you off guard with its flavors. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was craving chips but wanted a healthier twist that wouldn’t leave me feeling guilty afterward. Enter my Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips, infused with vibrant basil and a sprinkle of garlic, creating a crispy, savory bite perfect for any occasion.
As I sliced the eggplants and watched them transform in the oven, the aroma of basil wafting through my kitchen felt like a cozy little hug. These chips are not only a fantastic alternative to traditional snack foods, but they also offer a unique way to showcase the often-underappreciated eggplant. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a crunchy side for your meals, these chips promise to satisfy your cravings while impressing friends and family alike. Let’s dive into making this deliciously simple treat!
Why are Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips irresistible?
Crispy, satisfying snack: These chips offer the crunch you crave without the guilt of traditional snacks.
Herbaceous flavor boost: Fresh basil and garlic elevate every bite, making them truly memorable.
Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time.
Versatile addition: Perfect for parties, as a side for dinner, or just a healthy snack.
Unique twist: Showcase the deliciousness of eggplant in a fun, crispy form that even non-vegetables lovers will enjoy!
Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips Ingredients
For the Chips
• Extra-virgin olive oil – This adds a rich flavor and helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Fresh basil leaves – The fragrant herb infuses the oil for delightful flavor in every bite.
• Japanese eggplants – These smaller, sweeter eggplants are perfect for creating thin, crispy chips.
• Garlic powder – Adds a savory kick to enhance the overall taste profile of the chips.
• Black pepper – A sprinkle provides a mild heat that complements the creaminess of the eggplant.
• Salt – Essential for drawing moisture from the eggplants, making them crispy when baked.
Optional Topping
• Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle on top adds a rich, nutty flavor for the ultimate Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips experience.
How to Make Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips
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Preheat your oven to 425°F, ensuring a crispy texture for your eggplant chips. A hot oven is key to achieving that delightful crunch!
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Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch thick rounds and lay them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with salt and allow them to sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture—this is crucial for crispiness!
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Combine the olive oil and fresh basil leaves in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil and let it steep for about 5 minutes to boost flavor.
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Blot the moisture from the eggplant slices with paper towels. Brush the basil-infused olive oil over each slice, then season with garlic powder, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor punch.
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Bake the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, rotate the baking sheets and continue baking for another 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
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Cool the chips for 2-3 minutes after removing them from the oven. Use a flexible spatula to loosen the chips from the baking rack and allow them to cool completely before serving, enhancing their crispness.
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips
Room Temperature: Store the chips in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. This helps maintain their crispy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the chips for up to 3 days, but they may lose their crunch. Re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the baked chips in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Reheating: To reheat your Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring they’ll be nice and crispy again!
Expert Tips for Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips
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Choose the Right Eggplants: Use Japanese eggplants—they’re sweeter and have less bitterness, ensuring a tastier chip.
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Patience with Salting: Allow the sliced eggplants to sit with salt for at least 20 minutes. This step removes excess moisture and is essential for achieving crispiness.
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Infuse Carefully: When heating olive oil with basil, avoid overheating. Too high a temperature can burn the basil, leading to a bitter taste in your Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips.
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Watch Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the chips as they bake. Rotate the sheets mid-way to promote even crisping and prevent burning.
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Serve Fresh: For the best texture, enjoy your eggplant chips the same day they’re made. Storing them can lead to sogginess.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious snack with minimal effort on busy days! You can slice the eggplants and season them with salt up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The basil-infused olive oil can also be prepared ahead of time—just allow it to cool, store in a sealed jar, and use within 3 days for the best flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the oil onto the eggplant slices, bake according to the recipe, and enjoy crispy, flavorful chips just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips Variations
Feel free to explore the exciting world of flavors and textures by customizing this recipe to your liking.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a delightful heat that elevates every bite.
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Herbal Infusion: Try mixing in other herbs like oregano or thyme for a different aromatic flair that complements the basil beautifully.
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Sweet Touch: Toss in a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika for a subtle sweetness and a hint of smokiness in your chips.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil instead of olive oil to give your chips an intriguing nutty undertone.
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Veggie Mix: Use a variety of vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes to create a colorful platter of crispy veggie chips that offer more than just eggplant.
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Breading Option: For an extra crunch, dip the eggplant slices in almond flour or breadcrumbs before baking. This adds an exciting texture twist to your snack!
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Cheesy Dream: For a richer flavor, mix in sharp cheddar or crumbled feta along with the Parmesan for layers of creamy goodness that pair perfectly with the eggplant.
Let your creativity run wild as you make these chips your own!
What to Serve with Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips?
When it comes to crafting the perfect snack experience, these delightful chips deserve equally delicious companions.
- Creamy Hummus: A smooth, tangy dip that complements the crispy texture of the chips, enhancing their flavor with each bite.
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that offers a rich, tomato-based alternative for dipping, balancing the savory notes of eggplant with sweetness.
- Garlic Aioli: This luscious sauce adds a kick of garlic, creating a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the herb-infused chips.
- Fresh Veggie Platter: Crisp carrot sticks, bell peppers, and cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the deep flavors of the eggplant, enhancing the eating experience.
- Tzatziki: This cool, creamy cucumber yogurt dip introduces a light, refreshing element that beautifully balances the savory chips.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can elevate your snacking game, providing varied textures and flavors that invite palate exploration.
- Red Wine: A glass of Merlot or Chianti can enrich the flavor palette, making your evening snack feel truly special.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing, guilt-free beverage option, the fizz and citrus will revive your taste buds between every crispy bite.
- Dark Chocolate: For a sweet finish, a piece of dark chocolate can provide a rich contrast to the savory chips, delighting your senses in unexpected ways.
Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best eggplants for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting eggplants, look for Japanese varieties as they tend to be sweeter and have fewer seeds. Choose eggplants that feel firm and smooth, avoiding those with wrinkles or dark spots. Ideally, they should be about 6-8 inches long and have a shiny skin, indicating freshness.
How should I store leftover eggplant chips?
For the best crunch, store your leftover Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer refrigeration, they can last up to 3 days, but the chips may lose some of their crispiness. To revive the crunch, just pop them back in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes!
Can I freeze Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips?
Very! To freeze, place the baked chips in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
What should I do if my eggplant chips aren’t crispy?
If your chips turn out less crispy than expected, they may have retained too much moisture. To troubleshoot, ensure you salted the eggplant slices adequately and allowed them to sit for the full 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated and maintain a close watch during the baking process, adjusting time as needed. If they still lack crunch, try reheating them in the oven for a few minutes.
Are Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure that any optional dipping sauces you serve alongside—like marinara—are gluten-free as well. Enjoy guilt-free, delicious snacking!
Crispy Simple Eggplant Parmesan Chips You’ll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch thick rounds and lay them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with salt and allow them to sit for 20 minutes.
- Combine the olive oil and fresh basil leaves in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes and let steep for 5 minutes.
- Blot the moisture from the eggplant slices with paper towels. Brush each slice with the basil-infused olive oil, then season with garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the eggplant slices for 15 minutes, rotate the baking sheets, and continue baking for another 12-15 minutes.
- Cool the chips for 2-3 minutes and then serve.