Crispy Roasted Garlic Kale Chips

Prepare to be amazed by these Garlic Roasted Kale Chips – a vibrant, crunchy, and irresistibly savory snack that might just outshine your favorite potato chips! These baked kale chips are seasoned to perfection with aromatic garlic and sea salt, transforming humble kale into a truly addictive treat. Forget about store-bought options; making them at home is surprisingly simple and guarantees a fresh, crisp result every time. Packed with nutrients and flavor, they’re the ultimate guilt-free indulgence for any time of day.

Walking through the produce aisle, it’s hard to resist the allure of fresh, vibrant kale. While many are familiar with its traditional green varieties, stumbling upon gorgeous purple kale adds an exciting twist to this already incredible vegetable. We were captivated by its beauty and knew it was destined for something special – something crunchy, savory, and utterly delicious. And so, these Garlic Roasted Kale Chips were born, offering a delightful way to enjoy this superfood, regardless of its color.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a snack you can eat by the handful, and these kale chips fit the bill perfectly. They’re like popcorn, but with an impressive nutritional profile that often goes unnoticed amidst their fantastic flavor and crunch. It’s truly a stealthy way to get your greens in! We’ve seen firsthand how irresistible they are; during a recent photoshoot, two whole heads of kale were utterly demolished in minutes. The perfectly seasoned, salty crunch was simply impossible to resist. Once you start, you’ll find yourself reaching for another, and another, until they’re all gone.

Why Choose Kale Chips? A Nutritional Powerhouse

Beyond their delightful taste and texture, kale chips offer a myriad of health benefits that make them a far superior snacking choice compared to processed alternatives. Kale is often lauded as a superfood, and for good reason. It’s incredibly rich in vitamins A, C, and K, vital for everything from immune function and skin health to bone density and blood clotting. It’s also an excellent source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Furthermore, kale provides essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, contributing to overall well-being. When baked into chips, kale retains much of its nutritional value, making it an ideal snack for anyone looking to boost their nutrient intake without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re following a vegan, paleo, or simply a health-conscious diet, these garlic-roasted kale chips align perfectly with a wholesome lifestyle.

What You Need to Make these Easy Kale Chips

Creating these remarkably crispy and flavorful kale chips requires just a few simple ingredients. The magic lies in the fresh kale and the perfect balance of seasonings. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Fresh Kale (Chopped): We love experimenting with different varieties! For this recipe, we used both striking purple kale and classic green kale, as they were beautifully in season. However, any type of kale works wonderfully – curly green, Lacinato (dinosaur kale), or even red kale will all yield fantastic results. Ensure your kale is fresh and vibrant for the best texture. You’ll want to remove the tough stems before chopping.
• Olive Oil or Olive Oil Spray: This is crucial for achieving that desirable crispiness. Olive oil helps the seasonings adhere to the kale leaves and promotes even browning in the oven. Using a cooking spray can help you achieve a lighter, more even coating, which is key to preventing soggy chips. If using liquid olive oil, a light drizzle and thorough tossing are essential.
• Sea Salt: We kept the seasoning simple and classic with fine sea salt to enhance kale’s natural flavor. However, feel free to get creative! Pink Himalayan salt or even a flaked finishing salt can add a gourmet touch.
• Garlic Powder: This is where the “garlic roasted” magic comes in. Garlic powder provides a warm, savory kick that perfectly complements the earthy notes of kale. It’s easier to distribute evenly than fresh garlic, ensuring every chip gets a burst of garlicky goodness.

In our studio, we often joke about how we try to sneak greens into every meal – and these kale chips are a prime example! The idea for this recipe actually came from a craving for something salty and satisfying, and kale chips immediately sprang to mind. It turns out, it was an excellent idea! These chips hit all the right notes: salty, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, you get a generous dose of your daily greens without even trying. It’s a win-win situation for your taste buds and your health.

How to Make Homemade Kale Chips: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making perfectly crispy kale chips at home is surprisingly easy and quick. Follow these detailed steps to achieve snack perfection:

1. Prepare Your Kale: Start by thoroughly washing your kale leaves. This is crucial for removing any dirt or debris. Once washed, the most important step is to de-stalk the kale. The tough, fibrous stems don’t crisp up well and can be bitter. Simply tear or cut the leafy greens away from the thick central rib. Then, break or chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Lay the kale pieces out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently pat them as dry as possible. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
2. Lightly Oil and Season: Transfer the dried kale pieces to a large mixing bowl. Now, it’s time for the olive oil. A light, even coating is key here. If using olive oil spray, generously mist the kale, tossing as you go to ensure all surfaces are covered. If using liquid olive oil, start with about a tablespoon and drizzle it over the kale. Use your hands to gently massage and toss the kale, ensuring every piece is lightly coated. Be careful not to overdo the oil, as too much can lead to soggy chips.
3. Season for Flavor: Once the kale is oiled, sprinkle it evenly with sea salt and garlic powder. For best results, sprinkle from a height to ensure an even distribution rather than clumps of seasoning. Toss again gently to make sure the seasonings adhere to every kale chip. This even coating is what gives these chips their incredible flavor.
4. Arrange and Bake (First Round): Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Arrange the seasoned kale chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the kale instead of roasting it, resulting in soft chips. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 6 minutes.
5. Flip and Continue Baking (Second Round): After 6 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs or a spatula, gently flip each kale chip over. This ensures even crisping on both sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 6 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during this second round, as kale chips can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly.
6. Final Crispness Check: After the initial 12 minutes of baking, your kale chips should be wonderfully crispy and slightly browned, especially around the edges. However, oven temperatures can vary, and the moisture content of your kale can also affect cooking time. If they’re not quite as crunchy as you’d like, you might need to flip them one more time and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes. Continue to check them frequently until they reach your desired level of crispness. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two on the baking sheet before serving. They will crisp up even further as they cool.

Variations: Get Creative with Your Kale Chips!

While the classic garlic and sea salt combination is always a winner, kale chips are incredibly versatile and lend themselves beautifully to various flavor profiles. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite twist!

• Sea Salt & Vinegar Kale Chips: For a tangy kick, soak your de-stemmed kale pieces in a bowl of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar for about 15-20 minutes before drying. After soaking, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before proceeding with the oil and sea salt (omit garlic powder for a true salt & vinegar experience, or keep it for an interesting depth). The vinegar adds a delightful pucker that’s reminiscent of classic potato chips.
• Oil Swaps: If olive oil isn’t your preference or you’re out, coconut oil (melted) or avocado oil are excellent alternatives. Coconut oil can impart a subtle sweetness, while avocado oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it another great choice for roasting.
• Garlic Salt Instead of Garlic Powder: To simplify your seasoning, swap out separate sea salt and garlic powder for garlic salt. Just be mindful of the sodium content and adjust the amount accordingly, as garlic salt is typically saltier than plain garlic powder.
• Cheesy Parmesan Kale Chips: For a savory, umami-rich twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option) over your crispy kale chips immediately after they come out of the oven. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, creating an irresistible, savory coating.
• Spicy Kale Chips: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper along with the garlic powder and sea salt before baking. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference.
• Nutritional Yeast Boost: For an extra boost of B vitamins and a “cheesy” flavor (especially great for vegan chips), sprinkle a generous amount of nutritional yeast on your kale chips once they’re out of the oven. It adds a delicious, savory depth and an extra layer of crunch.

How do I prevent soggy kale chips?

Soggy kale chips are a common frustration, but easily avoidable with a few key techniques. The absolute most important step is to ensure your kale is as dry as possible before baking. After washing, thoroughly pat the kale leaves dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess water. Moisture will steam the kale instead of crisping it. Additionally, be judicious with your olive oil. Too much oil can weigh down the leaves and make them greasy and soggy. A light drizzle or a good spray is all you need, ensuring an even but thin coating. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; allow ample space between the kale pieces for air circulation, which promotes even crisping.

Can I make air fryer kale chips using this recipe?

Absolutely! The air fryer is an excellent tool for making incredibly crispy kale chips with even less oil. To adapt this recipe for your air fryer, simply follow the prep and seasoning steps as outlined. Then, instead of placing them on a baking sheet, arrange the seasoned kale chips in a single layer in your air fryer basket. You’ll likely need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 6 minutes. Halfway through, give the basket a good shake to flip the chips and ensure even cooking, then continue to cook for another 2-4 minutes, or until they are perfectly golden and crunchy. Air fryer times can vary, so keep a close watch to prevent burning!

How to Store Leftover Kale Chips

While we highly recommend enjoying your freshly baked kale chips immediately for the best flavor and crunch, if you happen to have any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), proper storage is key. Store cooled kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature. However, be aware that day-old kale chips tend to lose their crispness and can become slightly chewy or soft due to moisture in the air. For this reason, it’s best to make only as much as you plan to eat in one sitting. If they do lose their crunch, you can try reheating them in a dry pan or the air fryer for a minute or two to revive some of their crispiness, but they might not be quite as perfect as fresh.

The Ultimate Healthy Snack: Garlic Roasted Kale Chips

In a world full of tempting but often unhealthy snack options, these Garlic Roasted Kale Chips stand out as a beacon of delicious, wholesome goodness. They prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. With minimal ingredients, simple steps, and endless possibilities for customization, they’re perfect for meal prep, a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or even as a unique topping for salads and soups. Embrace the crunch, savor the garlic, and enjoy the nutritional benefits of this fantastic superfood snack!

5 from 2 votes

Garlic Roasted Kale Chips

These Garlic Roasted Kale Chips not only boast beauty but also pack a punch of flavor and nutrients. Seasoned with salt and garlic, they’re baked to crispy perfection.

By:
Lee Funke

Prep:

5 mins

Cook:

12 mins

Total:

17 mins

Servings:
2

Pin
Print

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped kale, deboned
• olive oil cooking spray, or 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. First, wash and de-stem the kale, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Pat the kale thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove all excess moisture.
2. Transfer the dried kale to a large bowl. Drizzle with about a tablespoon of olive oil or generously spray with olive oil cooking spray. Toss well with your hands to ensure every piece of kale is lightly and evenly coated.
3. Season generously with garlic powder and sea salt, tossing again to distribute evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned kale in a single layer on a large baking sheet (use two if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Bake in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 6 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven, gently flip each chip, and return to bake for an additional 6 minutes or until perfectly crunchy and slightly browned.

Tips & Notes

• Depending on your oven’s calibration and the moisture content of your kale, you may need to flip the chips again after the 12 minutes and bake for an extra 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
• For air fryer instructions, see the “Can I make air fryer kale chips?” section above.

Nutrition

Calories: 48 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 6 g,
Protein: 4 g,
Fat: 2 g,
Fiber: 6 g,
Sugar: 1 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.