Looking for a snack that’s healthy, tasty, and super easy to prepare? Try making crispy kale chips in your air fryer.
This nutritious snack will satisfy your cravings for something crunchy and savory without the extra calories.
Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy kale in a new and delicious form. Let’s get started with this simple yet flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch of kale
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, or a dash of parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Directions:
1. Clean and Prep the Kale
Begin by rinsing the kale thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with a clean towel. It’s essential to get the kale as dry as possible to ensure it crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
After drying, remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the Kale
Place the kale pieces into a large bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. If you’re adding extra seasonings like chili powder, onion powder, or parmesan cheese, mix them in now. Toss everything together until each piece of kale is evenly coated. This step ensures that every chip will be flavorful and crispy.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Preheating helps the kale chips cook evenly and become perfectly crisp.
4. Cook the Kale Chips
Spread the seasoned kale in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the kale in batches. Air fry the kale for 4–6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Keep a close watch during the last couple of minutes to prevent burning. The chips are done when they are crisp and slightly browned.
5. Cool and Serve
Once the kale chips are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling period helps them crisp up even more. Serve the chips immediately as a snack or side dish. They’re great on their own or paired with your favorite dip.
Tips and Variations:
- Choosing the Kale: Curly kale is ideal for making chips because of its texture and ability to hold seasonings well. However, feel free to try other varieties like lacinato kale for a different experience.
- Oil Alternatives: For a lighter option, you can use a cooking spray instead of oil. Make sure to spray lightly and evenly.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they become less crisp, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a minute or two to refresh.
- Seasoning Ideas: Experiment with different seasonings such as smoked paprika, lemon zest, or nutritional yeast to create unique flavor combinations.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Healthy: Kale is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, making these chips a healthy snack choice.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and prep time, you can have a batch of kale chips ready in just about 10 minutes.
- Delicious and Versatile: These kale chips are flavorful enough to enjoy on their own, but they also make a great topping for soups, salads, or grain bowls.
Conclusion:
Air fryer kale chips are a simple and nutritious snack that you can enjoy anytime. With their satisfying crunch and customizable seasonings, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and discover how delicious healthy snacking can be!
