Crispy air fryer kale chips in just 10 minutes! A quick, healthy snack with herbs and olive oil—perfect for anytime cravings.
Sometimes, I forget how my air fryer can turn vegetables into healthier alternatives for potato chips. In just 10 minutes, those leafy greens turn into paper-thin crisps that sound like stepping on autumn leaves when you bite into them. What makes these even better is pairing them with creamy dips like white bean hummus and feta or creamy canned chickpea hummus—the contrast between crispy kale and smooth hummus will make you reach in for more.
My first attempt on these kale chips was so soggy because I rushed through the drying process. That mistake taught me that I needed patience in this recipe and drying is crucial—even a few drops of water can ruin the crisp texture. Now I make sure each leaf is thoroughly dry before adding the olive oil and massage the seasoning blend of herbs into every piece. This extra minute of prep work makes all the difference (you have to trust me on this.)
What makes these kale chips amazing is how they satisfy the need for something crunchy and slightly salty without sacrificing your healthy eating goals. While my kids are doing homework or watching TV, I can make a batch in less time than it takes to drive to the store. Once I discovered how to make vegetable chips with the air fryer, I couldn't stop experimenting—my crispy air fryer beet chips use the same basic techniques.
I've found that having the right air fryer accessories makes a huge difference for recipes like this. A proper parchment liner prevents sticking while still allowing air circulation, essential for achieving that perfect crisp. My husband loves it when I add garlic powder and smoked paprika, while I prefer the classic herbs mix. Even my children, who used to wrinkle their noses at the idea of kale as a snack, now ask for "green crunchies" during movie nights.
I often make a double batch because they disappear quicker than potato chips, without the grease or heavy feeling afterward. They're my go-to afternoon pick-me-up when that 3 pm hunger hits. If you're looking for a lighter snack option or just want to make the most out of your air fryer, these kale chips will impress you.
Ingredients
- Fresh kale leaves – The key ingredient for this recipe, kale crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. I’ve tried both curly and flat-leaf kale, and while both work, I find curly kale gives the chips a better crunch.
- Olive oil – This helps to achieve the right texture for crispy chips. I’ve used avocado oil as a substitute, but olive oil tends to give the chips a slightly richer taste.
- Dried herbs – These bring flavor depth. I often use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme, but feel free to experiment with different combinations based on what you have in your pantry.
See the recipe card for exact quantities.
Step-by-step Instructions
Air fryer kale chips are a simple and healthy snack that's crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, they come together quickly in the air fryer and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. Perfect for when you're craving something crunchy without the guilt!
Preparing Kale for Air Frying
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Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, wash the kale leaves thoroughly and dry them completely using a salad spinner or paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent the kale from crisping up, so make sure they are completely dry. Once dried, remove the tough stems from each kale leaf. Hold the stem with one hand and pull the leafy part off with your other hand, or use kitchen scissors to snip them out. Tear or cut the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, around 2 inches in size. Keep in mind that the kale will shrink as it cooks, so avoid cutting them too small.
Seasoning the Kale
Place the kale pieces in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, dried herbs (like oregano, thyme, or basil), and black pepper. Using your hands, massage the oil and seasonings into the kale leaves for about 30 seconds, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This step is key for achieving even flavor and a crisp texture.
Air Frying the Kale
Place the seasoned kale in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It's important not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent the kale from crisping evenly. If necessary, air fry the kale in batches. Set the air fryer to 4 minutes. After 3 minutes, open the air fryer to check the kale. Give the basket a quick shake to redistribute the leaves. If the kale chips are not crispy yet, continue air frying for another 1-2 minutes, checking them frequently to avoid burning.
Finishing Touches
Once the kale chips are crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for about 1 minute. This helps the chips crisp up even more. Serve immediately as a light snack on their own, or pair with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage
To store air fryer kale chips, let them cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable bag. Store in a dry place for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chips, though they may lose some crispiness upon reheating. To refresh the chips, reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
Top Tips
Dry kale thoroughly: Before tossing the kale with oil and seasonings, make sure it's completely dry. Excess moisture will prevent the leaves from crisping up in the air fryer.
Residual Crisping: Keep in mind that kale chips will continue to crisp up slightly after removing them from the air fryer. Let them sit for a minute or two before serving to achieve the perfect crunch.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for different flavor profiles. This simple addition can take your kale chips to the next level!
Recipe
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Crispy Air Fryer Kale Chips
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Kitchen scissors or knife
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh kale leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried herbs any combination of oregano, basil, and thyme
- ⅓ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅓ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Wash the kale leaves and thoroughly dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels. Water left on the leaves will prevent them from getting crispy.
- Remove the tough center stems from each kale leaf by holding the stem with one hand and pulling the leafy parts off with your other hand, or cut them out with kitchen scissors.
- Tear or cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces, about 2 inches in size. They will shrink when cooked.
- Place the kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, dried herbs, and pepper.
- Using your hands, massage the oil and seasonings into the kale leaves for about 30 seconds to ensure even coating.
- Place the seasoned kale leaves in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the basket - work in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 4 minutes.
- Open the air fryer after 3 minutes to check progress. Give the basket a shake to redistribute the leaves.
- If the kale chips aren't crispy yet, continue air frying for another 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.
- Remove the crispy kale chips and let them cool for 1 minute.
- Serve immediately as a snack on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
