Light, crispy, and packed with savory flavor, these Baked Kale Chips are my favorite go-to snack when I’m craving something crunchy without the guilt. They come together quickly with just three ingredients and make the perfect healthy bite between meals or a crunchy topping on soups and salads.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 bunch kale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 300°F (150°C).
Then I remove the kale leaves from the thick stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
After washing the kale, I make sure it’s completely dry—either using a salad spinner or gently patting it with paper towels.
I drizzle the leaves with olive oil and sprinkle them with sea salt.
Using my hands, I massage the oil and salt evenly into every leaf.
Next, I spread the kale in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
I bake them for 20–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
Once the edges are brown but not burnt, I let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per serving: 58 kcal
Variations
I like to play around with seasonings to mix things up. Sometimes I sprinkle in a bit of smoked paprika or garlic powder before baking. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy, and chili flakes bring a nice kick. For a sweeter twist, I’ve even tried a dusting of cinnamon and coconut sugar.
Storage/Reheating
Once completely cooled, I store the kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to lose their crispiness, I just pop them back in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5 minutes to bring the crunch back.
FAQs
How do I keep kale chips from getting soggy?
I make sure the kale is totally dry before baking and store it in an airtight container to keep out moisture.
Can I use curly or lacinato kale?
Yes, I’ve used both types. Curly kale tends to give a fluffier texture, while lacinato (or dinosaur kale) results in a flatter, more delicate chip.
Why are my kale chips bitter?
Overbaking can make them bitter. I watch closely near the end of the cooking time to make sure the edges are just brown, not burnt.
Can I make these without oil?
Yes, but they’ll be drier and less crispy. I find that even a small amount of oil helps with flavor and texture.
Can I make them in an air fryer?
Absolutely! I reduce the cooking time and temperature slightly—about 275°F for 10–15 minutes—and shake the basket halfway through.
Conclusion
Baked Kale Chips are my favorite example of how simple ingredients can make something truly crave-worthy. Whether I’m snacking on them solo or pairing them with a hearty soup, they always hit the spot. If I want a nutritious crunch without compromising on taste, these chips are the way to go.
📖 Recipe:
Baked Kale Chips
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Light, crispy, and savory, these Baked Kale Chips are a healthy and addictive snack made with just three ingredients. They're gluten-free, vegan, and low-calorie—perfect for guilt-free munching.
Ingredients
1 bunch kale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove kale leaves from thick stems and tear into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash the kale and ensure it is completely dry using a salad spinner or paper towels.
- Drizzle the kale with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Massage the oil and salt evenly into the leaves using your hands.
- Spread the kale in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through for even crispiness.
- Remove from the oven once edges are brown but not burnt, and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Ensure kale is completely dry before baking to avoid sogginess.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Re-crisp in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes if needed.
Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, chili flakes, or cinnamon and coconut sugar.
Both curly and lacinato kale work well.
Watch closely to avoid overbaking and bitterness.
Can be made without oil, but chips will be drier.
Air fryer method: cook at 275°F for 10–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 58
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
