Plantain Chips Recipes: 5 Easy Ways to Make Crispy Homemade Chips

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of plantain chips fresh out of the pan or oven. Loved around the world; from West Africa and the Caribbean to Latin America and even parts of Asia, plantain chips are a snack that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Whether you prefer them salty and savory, sweet and golden, or spiced with a little kick, these crispy treats have a way of hitting the spot every single time.

What makes them even better is that you don’t have to rely on store-bought versions filled with preservatives and too much oil.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make plantain chips at home that are healthier, tastier, and totally customizable.

From classic fried chips to baked and air-fried versions, the possibilities are endless and the best part is, you get to control the flavor.

In this post, I’ll share different plantain chips recipes, including salty, sweet, and spiced variations, along with tips to get that perfect crunch every time.

Simple Plantain Chips Recipes

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party favorite, or a healthier alternative to potato chips, homemade plantain chips are about to become your new go-to treat.

1. Unripe Plantain Chips Recipe

If you are looking for a simple, crispy, and irresistible snack, the unripe or green plantain chips are the perfect choice.

They are thin, crunchy, and lightly salted, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought chips.

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This recipe is straightforward, uses only a few ingredients, and delivers that golden, crunchy goodness we all crave.

Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, or a party appetizer, or even a crunchy side to your meals, these chips will quickly become a staple in your home.

Ingredients

1. 3 medium green plantains (unripe plantains)
2. 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
3. 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

How to make unripe plantain chips from scratch – step by step

Step 1: Prepare the plantains

Peel the plantains by cutting off both ends and making a shallow slit down the skin lengthwise. Gently remove the peel with your fingers.

Slice the plantains into very thin rounds using a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be.

Step 2: Soak the slices

Place the slices into a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch and ensures that the chips come out light and crispy.

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After soaking, drain the water and pat the slices completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Heat the oil

Pour the vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

You can test the oil by dropping in one slice, if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Fry the plantains

Working in small batches, carefully place the slices into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp.

Stir occasionally to ensure even frying. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will make the chips soggy.

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Step 5: Drain and season

Once fried, remove the chips with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Immediately sprinkle with salt while they are still hot, so the seasoning sticks well.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Allow the chips to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with dips such as guacamole, salsa, or spicy mayo.

 

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Chips

• Use green plantains only, as ripe ones will be too soft and sweet for this recipe.
• Slice as thinly as possible, uniform slices give you evenly crisp chips.
• Do not skip the soaking step; it makes a big difference in texture.
• Season while hot for maximum flavor.

Serving Ideas

1. Pair with your favorite dips during game night or parties.
2. Serve as a crunchy side with grilled meats or rice dishes.
3. Pack in snack bags for a healthier homemade alternative to chips.

2. Sweet Plantain Chips Recipe

If you prefer your snacks on the sweeter side, this recipe is for you. Sweet plantain chips are made from ripe (yellow) plantains, which caramelize beautifully when fried, giving them a natural sweetness with a touch of crispiness.

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Ingredients

1. 2 ripe (yellow) plantains
2. 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
3. 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
4. A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Peel and slice the ripe plantains thinly into rounds.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Fry the slices in small batches until golden brown. Ripe plantains cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
4. Drain on paper towels. While still warm, sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of cinnamon if desired.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

3. Oven-Baked Plantain Chips Recipe

For a lighter version, oven-baked plantain chips are a healthy alternative without sacrificing crunch.

They use less oil but still deliver on taste.

Ingredients

1. 3 green plantains
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil)
3. 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and slice the plantains into thin rounds.
3. Toss the slices in olive oil and salt until well coated.
4. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

4. Air-Fried Plantain Chips Recipe

If you own an air fryer, this is the quickest and healthiest way to enjoy plantain chips with minimal oil.

Ingredients

1. 2 green plantains
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil (or spray oil)
3. ½ teaspoon salt

How to make plantain chips air fryer

1. Peel and slice the plantains thinly.
2. Toss the slices in a small amount of oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Place the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Remove when crispy and golden.

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5. Spiced Plantain Chips Recipe

For those who love bold flavors, spiced plantain chips are a must-try. A mix of spices adds a fun twist to the classic salted version.

Ingredients

1. 3 green plantains
2. 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
3. 1 teaspoon paprika
4. ½ teaspoon chili powder
5. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
6. Salt to taste

How to make spicy plantain chips

1. Peel and slice the plantains thinly.
2. Heat the oil in a frying pan.
3. Fry the slices in batches until golden and crisp.
4. Drain on paper towels and immediately toss with paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
5. Serve warm with dips for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Plantain chips are one of those snacks that strike the perfect balance between crunchy, flavorful, and versatile.

Whether you love them salty and simple, sweet and caramelized, or spiced up with bold seasonings, there is a plantain chip recipe for every craving.

Plus, with healthier versions like oven-baked or air-fried options, you can enjoy guilt-free snacking without losing the satisfying crunch.

So next time you are looking for a quick, homemade treat, skip the store-bought version and make your own plantain chips at home.

They are fresh, customizable, and so addictive that you will always want a jar ready in your kitchen.