How to Make Air-Fryer Potato Chips

Potato chips are a classic snack that many people love, but traditional deep-fried chips can be high in oil and unhealthy fats. Fortunately, you can make delicious and crispy potato chips at home using an air fryer, which requires far less oil while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making air-fryer potato chips that are both tasty and healthier.

Ingredients:

• 2 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Optional seasonings: black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or any of your favorite spices

Instructions:

Step 1: Choose and Slice the Potatoes

Start by selecting fresh, firm potatoes. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. If you prefer, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds texture and additional nutrients. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes very thinly (about 1/16 inch thick). Thin slices ensure the chips turn out crispy rather than chewy.

Step 2: Soak the Slices

Place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which prevents the chips from becoming soggy. For even better results, you can soak them for up to an hour. After soaking, drain the slices and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 3: Season and Coat

Transfer the dried potato slices to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or lightly spray them with cooking spray. Add salt and any additional seasonings you like, then toss the slices to evenly coat them.

Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Arrange the potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent even cooking and crisping. If necessary, cook in batches.

Step 5: Cook Until Crispy

Air-fry the potato slices for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the air fryer model. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once the chips are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Potato Chips:

• Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, which helps ensure even cooking.
• Soaking is key—don’t skip this step if you want extra crispy chips.
• Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Experiment with flavors—try different seasonings such as barbecue seasoning, cheese powder, or chili flakes for a unique twist.

Making air-fryer potato chips at home is an easy and healthier alternative to store-bought chips. With minimal oil and maximum crunch, these chips are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dips. Give them a try and enjoy guilt-free, homemade potato chips anytime!