Crispy Eggplant Parmesan Chips Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Eggplant Parmesan Chips are a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these golden, crunchy chips bring the comforting flavors of Parmesan and eggplant together in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil, for frying or baking
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the coating stations by placing the flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a third bowl.
- Step 2: Season the eggplant slices lightly with salt and pepper. Dredge each slice in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Step 3: For frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place coated slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle or spray lightly with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until crispy and golden.
- Step 4: Serve warm as a snack or appetizer, optionally with marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for enhanced flavor.
- Try baking for a lighter version that still delivers crunch.
- Slice the eggplant thinly to ensure crispiness when cooking.
Storage
Store leftover chips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a hard aged cheese of your choice for a slightly different flavor.
Is it better to fry or bake these chips?
Frying yields a crispier and richer result, but baking is a healthier alternative that still produces crunchy chips, especially when drizzled with oil and flipped halfway through cooking.
PrintCrispy Eggplant Parmesan Chips Recipe
Crispy Eggplant Parmesan Chips are a delightful appetizer or snack featuring thinly sliced eggplant coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. These chips are either baked or fried to achieve a satisfying crunch, making them a perfect savory treat to serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, thinly sliced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) or as needed for baking
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the eggplant slices: Wash and thinly slice the eggplant into rounds about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Set up the coating stations: Place the flour in one shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in a second bowl. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the eggplant slices: Dip each eggplant slice first in the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
- Cooking method choice: For frying, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. For baking, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the coated slices on a greased baking sheet or a baking rack and lightly spray with oil to promote crispiness.
- Cook until crispy: If frying, drain the fried slices on paper towels to remove excess oil. If baking, bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your crispy eggplant Parmesan chips warm as is or with a dipping sauce such as marinara or ranch dressing.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a bit of cornmeal into the breadcrumb mixture.
- To reduce oil absorption during frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the eggplant slices (around 350°F/175°C).
- These chips are best served immediately to enjoy their crunch.
- You can customize seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture with Italian herbs like oregano or basil.
- Baking is a healthier option and produces slightly less crispy but still delicious chips.
Keywords: eggplant chips, crispy eggplant, eggplant parmesan, appetizer, snack, vegetarian, fried eggplant, baked eggplant chips
