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The Ultimate Homemade Potato Chips: Crispy Oven Baked and Air Fryer Methods

A mound of golden, crispy homemade potato chips piled high on a white plate, catching bright sunlight.

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Make the crispiest, perfectly salted potato chips at home using simple ingredients. This guide provides instructions for both oven baking and air frying for a satisfying, guilt-free snack alternative to store-bought bags.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large Russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying/tossing)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing, if baking)
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes completely. You do not need to peel them for a rustic chip.
  2. Slice thinly: Use a mandoline slicer to cut the potatoes into very thin, uniform slices, about 1/16 inch thick. Uniformity is key for even cooking.
  3. Rinse and soak: Place the potato slices in a large bowl of cold water. Swish them around to remove excess starch. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, changing the water once if possible. This step helps achieve maximum crispiness.
  4. Dry thoroughly: Drain the potatoes well. Spread them out on several layers of clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Pat them completely dry. Moisture prevents crisping.
  5. Seasoning (for baking/air frying): In a medium bowl, toss the dry slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, and paprika until lightly coated.
  6. Method 1: Oven Baked Chips: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer on the sheets, ensuring they do not overlap. Brush lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. Watch closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
  7. Method 2: Air Fryer Potato Chips: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. Place the seasoned slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until they are golden and crunchy.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove the chips from the oven or air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will crisp up further as they cool. Adjust salt if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, ensure your potato slices are as thin and dry as possible before seasoning and cooking.
  • If you prefer a classic fried chip, heat 2 inches of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) to 350°F (175°C) and fry the dried slices in small batches until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and immediately toss with salt.
  • Try different seasonings like onion powder, black pepper, or a dash of vinegar powder for variety.

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