There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sound of biting into a perfectly crispy potato chip. I’ve always loved snacking on chips, but store-bought ones are often loaded with preservatives and excess oil. So, I thought, why not make my own? That’s when my air fryer came to the rescue, giving me a healthier alternative without compromising on that golden, irresistible crunch.
What I love most about these homemade air fryer potato chips is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can whip up a batch of crunchy, savory chips that rival anything you’d find in a bag. Plus, you can season them however you like—classic salted, smoky paprika, or even spicy chili lime. The options are endless, and the results? Absolutely delicious.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Potatoes: The star of the show. Russet potatoes are my top pick because they’re starchy and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. If you want thinner, lighter chips, Yukon Golds are another great option.
Olive Oil: A little goes a long way here! Olive oil helps the chips crisp up evenly and adds a subtle richness. You can also use avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
Salt: Classic sea salt works wonders for flavoring the chips. It’s simple, but it lets the potato’s natural flavor shine.
Optional Seasonings: While salt is a must, this is your chance to get creative! Add paprika for a smoky kick, garlic powder for a savory twist, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for indulgence.
Air Fryer: This is the game-changer. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chips, creating that perfect crispy texture without the need for deep-frying in oil.
Ingredients List
- 2 large Russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for thinner chips)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika, garlic powder, or seasoning of your choice
How to Make Air Fryer Potato Chips
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes (or leave the skins on for a rustic look). Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible, about 1/16 inch thick. The thinner the slice, the crispier the chip!
Step 2: Soak and Dry the Slices
Place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water for 15–20 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which is key to achieving crispiness. After soaking, drain the water and pat the slices completely dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potato slices with olive oil, ensuring each slice is lightly coated. Sprinkle with sea salt and any additional seasonings of your choice.
Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the potato slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re making a large batch, you’ll need to cook them in multiple rounds.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chips for 10–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep a close eye toward the end to prevent burning, as the thin slices cook quickly.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once the chips are golden and crispy, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool slightly, sprinkle with a bit more salt if desired, and dig in!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Slice Consistently: Use a mandoline slicer for even slices, which ensures all the chips cook at the same rate.
- Don’t Skip Soaking: Removing the starch is crucial for crispy chips. Skipping this step may result in soggy chips.
- Air Fryer Settings May Vary: All air fryers are different, so adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Make multiple batches with different flavors—barbecue, ranch, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist!
- Serve Immediately: These chips are best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep them in an airtight container to retain crispiness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While Russet potatoes are ideal, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Sweet potatoes are another great option for a unique flavor.
Q: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it can help the chips cook more evenly and crisply. Check your air fryer’s manual for recommendations.
Q: How do I store leftover chips?
Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, they’re best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispiness.
Q: Can I make these chips without oil?
Yes, you can, but they might not crisp up as much. A light coating of oil significantly enhances the texture and flavor.
Q: What if my chips aren’t crispy?
Ensure you slice them thinly and don’t overcrowd the air fryer. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly for extra crispness.
Enjoy these homemade air fryer potato chips as a guilt-free snack or pair them with your favorite dips like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. Once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought chips again!