Baked Kale Chips — a crunchy, nutritious snack you can make at home in minutes. This healthy kale chips recipe transforms raw kale into light, crispy chips with a touch of olive oil and sea salt. Perfect for parties, kids’ lunches, or a guilt-free crunchy snack.
Prep Time: 10 mins • Cook Time: 20 mins • Total Time: 30 mins • Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale (curly or Lacinato)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt (or to taste)
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
Remove kale leaves from thick stems and tear into bite-sized pieces (about 1½–2″ pieces). Discard stems.
Step 3
Wash kale thoroughly and dry completely in a salad spinner or with clean towels — moisture prevents crisping.
Step 4
Toss kale with olive oil until evenly coated. Spread leaves in a single layer on prepared baking sheet without overlapping.
Step 5
Sprinkle flaked sea salt over the leaves and bake 20–30 minutes, checking at 20 minutes. Remove when edges begin to brown but before they burn.
Step 6
Cool briefly and enjoy. Store in an airtight container for 1–2 days (best fresh).
Cook’s Note
Drying the kale completely is the key to crunch. For flavor variations, try nutritional yeast (cheesy), smoked paprika, or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
How to Store Baked Kale Chips to Keep Them Crispy
If you manage to resist eating them all at once, proper storage is key to keeping baked kale chips light and crunchy instead of soft or soggy. Follow these tips to preserve their crisp texture:
1. Let Them Cool Completely
Freshly baked kale chips release residual heat and moisture, which can create steam and make them limp if sealed too soon. Allow the chips to cool fully on the baking sheet before storing.
2. Use an Airtight Container
For chips seasoned with salt or other dry spices, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, though they’re best enjoyed within two to three days for peak crunch.
If your kale chips are topped with perishable ingredients like cheese, refrigerate them in an airtight container instead to keep them safe and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories 58 • Total Fat 3g • Saturated Fat 0g • Sodium 185mg • Total Carbohydrate 8g • Dietary Fiber 2g • Protein 3g • Vitamin C 90mg • Calcium 104mg • Iron 1mg • Potassium 337mg