These crispy air fryer kale chips are a simple, budget-friendly way to turn fresh kale into a savoury snack. A little olive oil and seasoning help the leaves crisp up in minutes, without deep-frying.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 as a snack
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 4–7 minutes per batch
- Total time: approximately 20 minutes, depending on basket size
Ingredients
- 150g fresh curly kale, tough stalks removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- A small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Kale Chips
- Wash the kale, remove the thick central stalks and tear the leaves into roughly even bite-sized pieces. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean tea towel; wet leaves will steam rather than crisp.
- Preheat the air fryer to 160°C for 3 minutes, if recommended by the manufacturer.
- In a bowl, toss the kale with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, pepper and a little salt until lightly coated.
- Arrange a small batch in the basket without packing it tightly. Make sure the leaves cannot blow into an exposed heating element; use an air-fryer-safe rack if your model requires one.
- Air fry at 160°C for 4–7 minutes, checking after 3 minutes and shaking or turning carefully. Remove when crisp but still green, before the edges turn dark brown. Repeat with the remaining kale.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch.
Tips for the Best Kale Chips
Dry the leaves thoroughly and cook in small batches. Every air fryer heats differently, so check early: thin pieces can burn quickly. Add a squeeze of lemon after cooking if you enjoy a brighter flavour.
Variations
Try a pinch of chilli flakes, lemon zest or a little finely grated Parmesan after cooking. For a different vegetable side, try our air fryer Brussels sprouts.
Storage
Kale chips are best eaten fresh. If needed, cool completely and keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They may lose their crispness in storage.
More Air Fryer Ideas
Browse our air fryer recipes or try these air fryer sweet potato fries for another easy side.
Budget Family Meal Plans
Planning affordable family dinners? Add these kale chips to our £30 family dinner plan, or explore the Budget Family Meals UK hub for more low-cost meal ideas.
Allergen note: The basic recipe contains no major listed allergens, but check any seasoning blends or optional toppings.