Air fryer banana chips
Some days, all you need is a light, crispy, and guilt-free snack that hits the sweet-and-savory spot just right. That’s where these air fryer banana chips come in. Born from childhood cravings and grown-up nutrition goals, these golden chips are thinly sliced bananas air-fried to crunchy perfection. They’re simple, they’re healthy, and above all, they’re incredibly addictive.
Whether you’re meal prepping snacks for the week or just need something to munch on while watching your favorite Netflix series, this recipe keeps it real—and real delicious. Plus, you don’t need fancy equipment or a deep fryer. Just an air fryer and a few pantry staples.
If you liked our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo, you’ll love how snackable these banana chips are too!
Equipment you’ll need
(Click on the equipment names below to view 🛒.)
- Air Fryer (We love it for consistent crisping.)
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone tongs or spatula
- Airtight snack container for storage
Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm bananas (plantains or regular bananas both work)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional, adds savory depth)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky twist—or sub with cinnamon for sweet version)
- Pinch of lemon juice (prevents browning)
💡 Optional twist: Add a sprinkle of seasoned salt or try Trader Joe’s Everything But the Elote Seasoning for bold flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Slice Like a Pro
First, peel and slice bananas thinly—about 1/8-inch thick. For perfect uniformity and safety, we highly recommend using a mandoline slicer.
Step 2: Toss With Flavor
In a bowl, gently toss the banana slices with oil, sea salt, and your chosen spices. A pinch of lemon juice helps them stay golden and bright.
Step 3: Preheat and Arrange
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Then, lay out the banana slices in a single layer in the basket—avoid overlapping to ensure even crisping.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Depending on your air fryer, you may need a bit more or less time, so check around the 9-minute mark. The edges should look curled and lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool and Crunch
Once done, place chips on a wire rack to cool. They’ll crisp up further as they cool.
Tips for Success
- Use firmer bananas to avoid mushy chips.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Want it sweet? Swap paprika for cinnamon and a drizzle of honey.
- Store in airtight jars to keep chips crisp for days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use regular bananas instead of plantains?
Yes! Just make sure they’re ripe but still firm for best results.
Q2: Why are my banana chips chewy instead of crispy?
They may have been sliced too thick or not cooked long enough. Use a mandoline for consistency.
Q3: Are air fryer banana chips healthy?
Absolutely! They’re low-oil, not deep-fried, and have no additives—just pure crunch and flavor.
Q4: Can I use coconut oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, and it adds a slightly tropical taste that pairs beautifully with the bananas.
Q5: How long do these chips last?
Up to 5 days in an airtight container—though they’re usually gone within 24 hours!
Air fryer banana chips are best served with
- Guacamole or hummus
- Greek yogurt dips
- A homemade nut butter drizzle
- Or alongside a smoothie bowl for breakfast crunch
Conclusion
In short, these air fryer banana chips are everything a great snack should be—simple, healthy, and addictively good. Whether you’re making them for your kids, for game night, or just for yourself, they hit all the right notes. So grab your air fryer and slice up a batch—you’ll wonder how you ever snacked without them.
