Save to Pinterest Crispy, flavorful kale chips baked to perfection—a trendy, healthy, and budget-friendly snack that satisfies your crunch craving.
I first baked kale chips for a weekend movie night, and they were gone before the opening credits. The simple process made me confident that this recipe is ideal for snacking anytime.
Ingredients
- Kale: 1 large bunch kale (about 200 g), washed and thoroughly dried
- Olive oil: 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional spices: ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Sheets:
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Trim and Tear Kale:
- Remove the tough stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Season Kale:
- Place the kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Toss thoroughly to coat every leaf evenly.
- Arrange On Sheets:
- Arrange the kale pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Bake:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through, until the edges are crisp but not browned. Watch closely towards the end to avoid burning.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
Save to Pinterest This snack became a staple for my family—kids love customizing the spices and crunching on them straight from the pan together.
Required Tools
Large bowl, baking sheets, parchment paper, salad spinner or kitchen towel for drying kale, oven
Allergen Information
Contains olive oil. Naturally free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. If adding cheese, check for dairy allergens. Always check spice labels for cross-contamination if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 60, Total Fat: 3.5 g, Carbohydrates: 6 g, Protein: 2 g
Save to Pinterest Whether enjoyed solo or shared, baked kale chips satisfy snack cravings and fit most dietary needs. Grab a handful and enjoy the crunch!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I get kale chips crispy without burning them?
Dry the kale thoroughly before oiling and bake at 150°C (300°F), checking near the end to avoid browning.
- → Can I add extra flavor to baked kale?
Yes, sprinkle smoked paprika, chili flakes, or nutritional yeast before baking for additional taste layers.
- → What’s the best way to store leftover kale chips?
Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat briefly in a low oven to refresh crispness.
- → Is olive oil necessary for crisp kale chips?
Olive oil helps evenly coat the leaves, promoting browning and crisp texture during baking.
- → Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Leafy greens like Swiss chard or collard greens can work but adjust baking times for optimal crispness.