Air Fryer Chips: Crispy, Golden & Guilt-Free Every Time

Craving that classic chip crunch but trying to skip the deep fryer? Same here. As a mom juggling busy evenings and picky appetites, I found my game-changer in air fryer chips. They’re just as golden and crisp as traditional fries, but healthier and way faster to make. Whether it’s after-school snacking or a dinner side dish, these chips are always a hit—without the greasy mess.

💡 Morgan Tip: Slice your potatoes evenly! It’s the #1 trick for uniform, perfectly crispy air fryer chips that don’t burn or undercook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never made air fryer chips at home, prepare to be wowed. These homemade chips are:

  • Crispy without deep frying – No greasy aftermath, just clean, golden crunch.
  • Faster than oven baking – Ready in about 20 minutes, start to finish.
  • Minimal ingredients – Just potatoes, oil, and salt. That’s it.
  • Customizable – Add garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes to spice things up.
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved – My kids love them, and I love how easy they are.

💡 Morgan Tip: Want ultra-crispy results? Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat them bone dry before air frying.

Overflowing bowl of golden air fryer chips on a light background.

air fryer chips Ingredient

You’ll be amazed how simple these crispy air fryer chips are to make. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 medium russet potatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • ½ tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
  • Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder, smoked paprika, or black pepper

💡 Morgan Tip: Russet potatoes give the best chip texture—crisp edges with a tender inside. Avoid waxy potatoes, which tend to turn rubbery.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Air fryer basket filled with crispy, golden brown potato chips.

Step 1 – Slice & Soak
Wash and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife (⅛-inch thick). Soak the slices in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch.

Step 2 – Dry & Season
Drain and pat the slices dry. Toss with olive oil, salt, and optional spices in a bowl.

Step 3 – Preheat & Load
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Lay the potato slices in a single layer in the basket—no overlapping.

Step 4 – Air Fry to Crisp
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway. Thinner chips may crisp faster—check at the 8-minute mark to prevent over-browning.

💡 Morgan Tip: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches. Overcrowding leads to soft, unevenly cooked air fryer chips.

My Air Fryer Chips Tips

  • Even slicing = even cooking – Use a mandoline for best results.
  • Add flavor at the right time – Season before air frying, and again right after for boldest flavor.
  • Let them cool slightly – They crisp even more as they rest.

Morgan Tip: Keep a batch of sliced potatoes in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, just drain, dry, and fry for instant air fryer chips on demand.

Serving Ideas

These air fryer chips are delicious straight from the fryer, but here are some fun ways to serve them:

  • Classic snack – Pair with ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
  • Game day platter – Top with cheese, sour cream, scallions, and bacon bits for homemade chip nachos.
  • Healthy lunch side – Serve next to turkey sandwiches or wraps.
  • Late-night bite – Reheat leftover chips in the air fryer for 3 minutes—they’ll be just as crisp.

💡 Morgan Tip: Toss chips with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley after cooking for an elevated twist that tastes restaurant-worthy.

Want more? Check out our air fryer recipes for one person collection—another fast, flavorful option.

Flaky, seasoned air fryer potato chips in a bowl, lightly dusted with black pepper.

Recipe Help & FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work well, but cook slightly faster. Reduce the air frying time by 2–3 minutes and monitor closely.

Why are my air fryer chips soggy?
Chances are they were too wet or overcrowded. Always pat them dry and give them room to crisp properly in a single layer.

Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely. Store cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes before serving.

How thin should I slice them?
Aim for ⅛-inch thickness. Thicker slices may turn out soft in the center while the edges brown.

💡 Morgan Tip: For flavored variations, try tossing your air fryer chips in BBQ seasoning, ranch powder, or nutritional yeast before air frying.

Print
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Overflowing bowl of golden air fryer chips on a light background.

Air Fryer Chips

Description:

These air fryer chips are crispy, golden, and made with just a few pantry staples. Quick, healthier, and absolutely craveable!

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

2 medium russet potatoes

1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

½ tsp sea salt

Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper

Instructions

Instructions:

Step 1 – Slice & Soak Potatoes: Thinly slice potatoes (⅛ inch) and soak in cold water for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2 – Dry & Season: Drain, pat dry, and toss in a bowl with oil, salt, and optional spices.

Step 3 – Preheat & Arrange: Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Arrange slices in a single layer in the basket.

Step 4 – Air Fry to Crisp: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway. Cook longer if needed for desired crispiness.

Notes

Notes:

Use a mandoline for consistent chip thickness.

Soaking helps remove excess starch and improves crispiness.

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for best results.

  • Author: Riley Morgan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Snack, Side Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: air fryer chips, homemade fries, crispy potato chips

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