Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple recipe uses wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen:
- 2 large potatoes (russet potatoes work best for crispiness)
- Olive oil-flavored cooking spray
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or more, to taste)
- Optional garnish: Fresh minced parsley for a pop of green and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on adds extra flavor and texture.
2. Slice Ultra-Thin
Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp vegetable peeler, cut the potatoes into paper-thin rounds. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking—aim for about 1/16-inch.
🔥 Pro Tip: Mandolines make slicing quick and easy, but always use the safety guard to protect your fingers!
3. Soak to Remove Starch
Place the potato slices into a large bowl and cover with ice-cold water. Let them soak for 15 minutes, then drain and refill with fresh ice water for another 15 minutes. This process removes excess starch, which is key to achieving that crisp, chip-like texture.
4. Dry Well
Drain the slices and pat them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Any moisture left on the slices can lead to soggy chips instead of crisp ones.
5. Spritz and Season
Lightly spray the slices with olive oil-flavored cooking spray, then toss or spread them out evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt and toss again to distribute.
6. Air Fry in Batches
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Arrange the potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Work in small batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 15 to 17 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket every 5–7 minutes to ensure even browning.
🧑🍳 Watch closely during the final minutes—some air fryers may cook faster, and thinner slices can brown quickly.
7. Cool and Garnish
Once golden and crisp, remove the chips and let them cool on a wire rack (this helps maintain crunch). If you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or additional sea salt before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Potato Chips Every Time
💡 Choose the Right Potato
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their low moisture and high starch content. They fry up light and crispy.
💡 Soak, Soak, Soak!
Removing the starch is critical. Don’t skip the double-soak step—it really improves crispiness.
💡 Dry Completely
After soaking, drying your slices thoroughly ensures the chips don’t steam and get soft.
💡 Don’t Skip the Flip
Air fryers cook best with a little movement. Flipping ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
Flavor Variations to Try
One of the best things about homemade chips is the chance to get creative. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try adding:
- BBQ Spice – Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar
- Salt & Vinegar – Soak slices in white vinegar for 30 minutes before drying
- Garlic Parmesan – Sprinkle with garlic powder and grated Parmesan after cooking
- Spicy Kick – Dust with chili powder or cayenne for a little heat
- Ranch Seasoning – Use a dry ranch mix for a zesty twist
How to Serve Air Fryer Potato Chips
These chips are incredibly versatile! Here are a few fun serving ideas:
- Snack Board: Pair with hummus, salsa, guac, or onion dip
- Side Dish: Serve alongside burgers, wraps, or sandwiches
- Appetizer Platter: Combine with air-fried veggies, olives, and cheese cubes
- Kid-Friendly Treat: Add them to lunchboxes or after-school snacks
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store fully cooled chips in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 days.
Reheating: If they lose their crunch, toss them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
❄️ Note: These chips are best fresh but can be revived if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the potatoes and soak them ahead of time. Just dry them well and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Do I need to use oil spray?
A little oil spray helps with crispiness and flavor, but if you’re strictly oil-free, you can skip it—just expect slightly less crunch.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! The method is the same, but sweet potato chips may cook a bit faster and have a slightly chewier texture.
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Snack
With this simple recipe, you can say goodbye to greasy chip bags and hello to homemade, air-fried perfection. These crispy Air Fryer Potato Chips are the ultimate combination of health-conscious cooking and irresistible flavor.
Make a batch today and experience the joy of chips that are crunchy, flavorful, and completely guilt-free—you won’t believe how easy it is!
📌 Don’t forget to save this recipe! If you try it, share your batch on social media and tag your friends—snack time will never be the same again.