Kale chips are the ultimate healthy snack—light, crispy, and packed with nutrients. But if you’re craving something with a little heat, this spicy kale chips recipe is going to be your new favorite. With the perfect balance of crunch, smokiness, and spice, these baked kale chips are an easy way to satisfy your cravings without guilt. Plus, they’re homemade kale chips, meaning you get to control the ingredients and flavors.
Let’s dive into the best kale chips recipe you’ll ever make, with simple steps and expert tips to get them perfectly crispy every time!
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Kale Chips
- Super Crispy & Flavorful – These crispy kale chips are packed with smoky, spicy, and umami flavors from nutritional yeast, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Healthier Than Store-Bought Chips – No preservatives, just fresh kale leaves, simple seasonings, and avocado oil.
- Quick & Easy to Make – You only need about 20 minutes from start to finish.
If you love kale chips, this spicy kale chips recipe is a must-try. Let’s get into the details!
Spicy Kale Chips Recipe | Easy Baked Kale Chips to Try
Course: vegan snack2-3
servings10
minutes15
minutes180
kcalIngredients
1 bunch of kale (Lacinato or curly kale works best)
1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
½ teaspoon paprika (for a smoky flavor)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, umami boost)
A pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature prevents burning while ensuring the kale becomes crispy.
- Prepare the Kale – Remove the kale leaves from the stems and tear kale into bite-sized pieces. Wash thoroughly and dry completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. Make sure your kale is fully dry to prevent soggy chips.
- Massage the Oil into the Kale – Place the dry kale leaves in a large bowl and drizzle with avocado oil. Use your hands to massage oil into the kale, ensuring every leaf is lightly coated.
- Season the Kale – Sprinkle with paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and salt. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet – Line a prepared baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the kale in one single layer to allow even baking. Space the kale to prevent steaming.
- Bake the Kale Chips – Place kale in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Some chips may bake faster than others, so check at the 15-minute mark. Rotate the pan halfway through baking.
- Cool & Serve – Once crispy, transfer to a cooling rack to allow any remaining steam to escape. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for later.
Nutritional Information (Per 100g of Spicy Kale Chips)
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 1.8mg |
| Vitamin A | 6500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 70mg |
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Kale Chips
Making crispy kale chips isn’t just about baking them—it’s about technique. Here are some key secrets:
✔ Use Dry Kale Leaves – Place the dry kale leaves on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Completely dry kale ensures maximum crispiness.
✔ Massage Oil into the Kale – Toss the curly kale in a large bowl and drizzle a bit of avocado oil, then massage it in. This coats the leaves evenly and helps them crisp up.
✔ Spread the Kale in a Single Layer – Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of bake. Space the kale on a baking sheet with parchment paper for best results.
✔ Use a Low Temperature – Baking them at a low temperature (around 275°F) prevents burning while allowing them to become crispy evenly.
✔ Cool on a Wire Rack – Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack so they stay crispy longer.
How to Prepare Kale for Baking
- Remove the Kale Leaves – Cut away from the stalk, or either tear leaves into bite-sized kale pieces.
- Wash & Dry Thoroughly – Use a salad spinner to air dry the kale or pat down with paper towels.
- Massage Oil into the Kale – Toss the kale in a large bowl and drizzle oil, then rub it in with your hands.
- Sprinkle Seasonings – Mix in garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
How to Make Spicy Kale Chips: Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven – Set it to 275°F (135°C) for low-temperature baking.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet – Line a prepared baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the Kale – Arrange in one single layer on the baking tray.
- Bake for 15-20 Minutes – Keep an eye on them—some chips may bake faster than others.
- Let Cool on a Wire Rack – This helps them continue to crisp without getting soggy.
Best Seasoning Combinations for Kale Chips
Want to mix things up? Try these flavors:
🔥 Spicy & Smoky – Paprika, chili powder, cayenne, garlic powder
🧀 Cheesy Vegan – Nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt
🌿 Herb & Garlic – Garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, salt
How to Avoid Soggy Kale Chips
- Make sure your kale is 100% dry before baking.
- Bake at a low temperature to let the moisture escape slowly.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent them from absorbing humidity.
How to Store Kale Chips for Maximum Crispiness
✔ Let them cool completely before storing.
✔ Use an airtight container—moisture is their worst enemy.
✔ Store at room temperature, NOT in the fridge!
If they lose crispiness, place kale back on a baking sheet and reheat at 275°F for a few minutes.
Why Baked Kale Chips Are Better Than Store-Bought
💚 Healthier – No additives, no preservatives, just pure seasoned kale.
💰 Cheaper – Store-bought kale chips are expensive, but homemade is budget-friendly!
🌱 Customizable – Make them as crispy without excess oil and adjust flavors to your liking.
FAQs About Kale Chips Recipe
1. Can I use different types of kale?
Yes! Like Lacinato kale (aka “the mitten”) or curly kale—both work well.
2. How long do kale chips last?
If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last up to a longer period of time (about 5 days).
3. Why are my kale chips not crispy?
Chips get nice and crispy when they’re completely dry and spaced in one single layer.
4. Can I use an air fryer instead of baking?
Absolutely! Cooking time will be faster—about 5-7 minutes at 300°F.
5. Can I add salt after baking?
Yes! Salt if you wish after baking to avoid excess moisture pulling out from the kale.
Final Thoughts on Making the Best Spicy Kale Chips
✔ Use dry kale and bake at a low temperature for ultimate crispiness.
✔ Experiment with flavors like smoky kale chips or cheesy nutritional yeast versions.
✔ Store properly to keep them crispy without getting soggy.
Enjoy these delicious spicy kale chips, and don’t forget to share your experience!
