Name: Air Fryer Kale Chips
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bunch fresh kale (curly or lacinato), stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces; 1–2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast; Optional: pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper; Optional: lemon zest or grated parmesan for garnish

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Air Fryer Kale Chips are light, crispy, and full of flavor—my favorite way to turn a leafy green into an addicting snack. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, I can enjoy a healthy, crunchy chip alternative that’s perfect for snacking or topping soups and salads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable. The air fryer makes the kale ultra crispy without needing much oil, and I can season it however I like—savory, spicy, cheesy, or even a little sweet. It’s a great way to use up leftover kale and satisfy a craving for something salty and crunchy without grabbing a bag of chips. Air Fryer Kale Chips

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh kale (curly or lacinato, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces)
Olive oil or avocado oil
Salt
Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, chili flakes, lemon zest, or parmesan

Directions

I start by washing and thoroughly drying the kale—any moisture can prevent it from crisping up.
I remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into even-sized pieces.
I toss the kale with a small amount of oil and seasonings until evenly coated.
I preheat the air fryer to 350°F, then place the kale in a single layer in the basket (I work in batches if needed).
I air fry for 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the kale is crisp but not browned.
I let the chips cool slightly before eating—they crisp up even more as they sit.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 servings and takes just 10 minutes total (5 minutes to prep, 3–5 minutes to cook). I usually make a double batch because they go fast!

Variations

I sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free flavor.
For a spicy version, I use chili powder or cayenne.
I’ve tossed them with lemon zest and sea salt for a bright, zesty kick.
For a savory snack, I add garlic powder and smoked paprika.

Storage/Reheating

Kale chips are best eaten fresh, but I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, I pop them back in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes. I avoid storing them in the fridge since they lose their crispness quickly. Air Fryer Kale Chips

FAQs

Why are my kale chips soggy?

If the kale isn’t completely dry or if I use too much oil, it can turn soggy. I always dry the leaves well and coat them lightly.

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes, I’ve made them in the oven at 300°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer just makes them faster and crispier.

What kind of kale works best?

I like curly kale for its texture, but lacinato (dinosaur) kale works too—it just makes flatter chips.

Can I make a big batch at once?

I recommend working in batches so the kale cooks evenly. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven chips.

Are these chips good for kids?

Yes, they’re a fun and healthy snack that even picky eaters often enjoy. I keep the seasoning simple for younger palates.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Kale Chips are a fast, healthy snack that turns simple greens into something totally crave-worthy. I love how easy they are to customize and how satisfyingly crispy they get in just a few minutes. Whether I’m looking for a clean snack or a fun way to use up extra kale, these chips are always a winner.