Baked Kale Chips Crunch

Featured in: Quick Snack Fixes

Experience the satisfying crunch of baked kale chips made by coating fresh kale leaves with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. After arranging in a single layer on parchment-lined sheets, they bake at a low temperature until crisp edges develop. Optional spices like smoked paprika add an extra layer of flavor. These chips make for a nutritious, low-carb snack that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a light bite.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:08:00 GMT
Golden, crispy baked kale chips, a healthy snack, ready for dipping on parchment paper. Pin it
Golden, crispy baked kale chips, a healthy snack, ready for dipping on parchment paper. | smartyskitchen.com

Crispy, flavorful kale chips baked to perfection: a trendy, healthy, and budget-friendly snack that satisfies your crunch craving.

The first time I tried homemade kale chips, I was surprised by how addictive they were: my family asks for them whenever we want something crunchy but guilt-free.

Ingredients

  • 1 large bunch kale (about 200 g): washed and thoroughly dried
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil: to coat the kale
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: for seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for extra flavor
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor

Instructions

Prep Oven:
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare Kale:
Remove the tough stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Season:
Place kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Toss thoroughly to coat every leaf evenly.
Arrange:
Arrange the kale pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not overlap.
Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through, until the edges are crisp but not browned. Watch closely towards the end to avoid burning.
Cool:
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
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My kids love helping toss the kale with oil and spices: it's a fun hands-on activity before snack time.

Required Tools

Large bowl, baking sheets, parchment paper, salad spinner or kitchen towel (for drying kale), oven

Allergen Information

Contains olive oil. Naturally free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. If adding cheese, check for dairy allergens. Always check spice labels for cross-contamination if concerned.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 60, Total Fat: 3.5 g, Carbohydrates: 6 g, Protein: 2 g

Close-up of freshly baked kale chips, perfectly seasoned and lightly salted, ready to crunch. Pin it
Close-up of freshly baked kale chips, perfectly seasoned and lightly salted, ready to crunch. | smartyskitchen.com

Once you start snacking on these, it is hard to stop: kale chips make the perfect crunchy treat any time of day.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do you ensure kale chips turn out crispy?

Make sure kale leaves are thoroughly dried before oiling and baking at a low temperature. Spreading pieces in a single layer prevents steaming.

Can I add other seasonings besides salt and pepper?

Yes, spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes enhance flavor without overpowering the natural kale taste.

What is the recommended baking temperature and time?

Bake at 150°C (300°F) for 12–15 minutes, rotating halfway, until edges are crisp but not browned.

How should these chips be stored for best freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days and re-crisp in a low oven if needed.

Are these chips suitable for gluten-free and vegan diets?

Yes, the basic preparation uses gluten-free, vegan ingredients; optional cheese additions would change this.

Baked Kale Chips Crunch

Crispy, flavorful kale chips baked with olive oil and spices for a healthy crunch.

Prep Time
10 min
Time to Cook
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created by Emily Scott


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Roots American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Details Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten, Reduced Carbs

What You'll Need

Vegetables

01 1 large bunch kale (approximately 7 ounces), washed and thoroughly dried

Oils

01 1½ tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

01 ½ teaspoon sea salt
02 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 Optional: ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes

Directions

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 300°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 02

Prepare Kale Leaves: Remove the tough stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

Step 03

Season Kale: Place the kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and optional spices. Toss thoroughly to coat evenly.

Step 04

Arrange on Baking Sheets: Spread the kale pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring no overlap.

Step 05

Bake Until Crisp: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through. Watch closely to prevent burning; the edges should be crisp but not browned.

Step 06

Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the kale chips to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Salad spinner or kitchen towel for drying kale
  • Oven

Allergy Info

Review each item for allergens and reach out to a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains olive oil; naturally free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. Check added cheese for dairy allergens and spices for cross-contamination.

Nutrition Info (per portion)

Info for reference only. Always check with your doctor for health guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 60
  • Fats: 3.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Proteins: 2 g