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Air Fryer Plantain Chips

Crispy and delicious plantain chips made quickly in the air fryer, perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.

Reviewed by Savory Trail Test Kitchen · Published August 8, 2026 · Updated August 17, 2026

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Air FryerHalloween
Air Fryer Plantain Chips
Savory Trail Kitchen (AI draft) · All rights reserved

Using an air fryer for plantain chips ensures a crispy texture without the excess oil of traditional frying. For best results, slice plantains evenly and avoid overcrowding the basket to allow hot air to circulate properly.

About this dish

Air fryer plantain chips are a lighter, crisp-on-the-outside snack made from ripe plantains, so they lean a little sweeter than traditional savory plantain chips. With just a little olive oil and salt, they cook into thin, golden rounds that are crisp at the edges and tender enough to snap once cooled.

The air fryer works especially well here because the hot circulating air dries and browns the thin slices without needing a full fry. For this specific recipe, the thin, even cut and single-layer basket are what help the chips cook evenly in the 10-12 minute window, with a brief extra cook only if they need more crunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces ripe plantains (yellow with some black spots for sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing the slices)
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Peel the plantains and slice them thinly and evenly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  3. In a bowl, toss the plantain slices with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings.
  4. Place the plantain slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  6. Check for crispiness; if needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Remove the chips and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips

Please verify air fryer temperature and cooking time as models vary; adjust as needed for crispness.

Variations & substitutions

  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a sweeter snack with the ripe plantains.
  • Use smoked paprika or chili powder for a more savory, slightly spicy chip.
  • Swap the olive oil for avocado oil if you prefer a different neutral oil.
  • Finish with a little garlic powder and black pepper for a more seasoned version.
  • Serve them with a squeeze of lime and a light sprinkle of salt for a brighter flavor.

What to serve with

  • Serve with guacamole for a creamy, salty contrast.
  • Pair with black bean dip for a hearty snack plate.
  • Offer alongside grilled chicken or fish as a simple starchy side.
  • Serve with salsa or pico de gallo for a fresh, tangy dip.
  • Add to a snack board with cheese, fruit, and nuts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make air fryer plantain chips ahead of time?

Yes, but they are crispiest the day they’re made. If you need to prep ahead, slice and season the plantains shortly before cooking rather than storing them already cooked.

How do I store leftover plantain chips?

Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. They may lose some crispness over time, especially if sealed while warm.

How do I reheat plantain chips in the air fryer?

Reheat them briefly in the air fryer at a low to moderate setting until they crisp back up. Watch closely so they don’t overbrown, since they’re already cooked.

Can I use green plantains instead of ripe ones?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be different. Green plantains will be less sweet and more savory, while the ripe yellow plantains in this recipe give a sweeter chip.

How do I know when the plantain chips are done?

They should look golden and feel crisp at the edges, but they often firm up more as they cool. If they still seem soft after 10-12 minutes, add a short extra cook and check again.

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