Crispy banana chips in the air fryer

11.1.22 | Recipe by Renz


Craving a light, crunchy snack that's naturally sweet and easy to make? These air fryer banana chips are a homemade version of a Caribbean favorite, without the heavy oils or extra sugar. Perfect for a post-workout boost, a school snack, or just something to munch on when you're on the move.

  
Plantain chips in a coconut bowl on a wooden table top with a bottle of oil in the background.



These air fryer chips are super quick and easy to make and are a great crunchy snack. They store well, so you can easily have a batch ready for whenever you need them.

They’re great if you’re going for a walk, as a pick-me-up after the gym, or to have on hand for a speedy after-school snack.

It is a great alternative to potato chips.

And if you’re looking for more banana recipes, try these tasty banana fritters.


Why make banana chips at home?


When you make banana chips at home, you control exactly what goes into them, no added sugars, preservatives, or heavy oils. Using the air fryer means you get crispy chips with minimal oil while still letting the natural sweetness of ripe bananas shine through.

It's an easy and satisfying way to turn extra bananas into a simple, wholesome snack.

Ingredients


You only need three simple ingredients to make this easy snack:
 

Ingredients for making banana chips in the air fryer.


  • Bananas: Choose just-ripe bananas that are yellow and firm, without brown spots. Overripe bananas will be too soft, and green bananas will be too starchy.
  • Olive oil or cooking spray: A light coating helps the banana chips crisp up in the air fryer. You can also use coconut oil or avocado oil if you prefer.
  • Sea salt: Add a sprinkle to enhance the natural sweetness of the bananas.

A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife will help you get even, thin slices for the crispiest results.

How to make banana chips in the air fryer


Making banana chips at home in your air fryer is quick and easy. Here’s how:


  1. Prep your bananas. Peel the bananas and slice them into even rounds about ⅛ inch thick.


  2. thinly sliced bananas on a cutting board with a white napkin..

  3. Season the slices. Lightly spray or brush both sides of the banana slices with olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt over the slices to taste.


  4. Thinly sliced up bananas with salt sprinkled all over it on a wooden cutting board.


  5. Arrange the slices. Place the banana slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping so they cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.


    Banana slices in the air fryer basket.

  6. Air fry the banana chips. Air fry at 360°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them near the end — cooking times may vary slightly based on your air fryer.
  7. Cool and crisp up. Remove the banana chips and let them cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes. They will continue to crisp as they cool.
  
Air fried banana chips on a cooling rack on top of a cloth.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Banana Chips


These crispy air fryer banana chips are delicious on their own, but they also make the perfect chip for dipping! Try them with:

  • Guacamole: The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the chips.
  • Tomato choka: A smoky, Caribbean-style tomato dip that adds a savory twist.
  • Mango chutney: Sweet and tangy, a tropical match made in heaven.
  • Pepper sauce: If you love a little heat, a mild pepper sauce is a bold dip choice.

You can also sprinkle the banana chips with cinnamon, chili powder, or a light dusting of paprika for extra flavor before serving.

How to store air fryer banana chips


To keep your banana chips crispy and fresh:

  • Store them in an airtight container lined with a piece of paper towel to absorb any moisture.
  • Keep the container in a cool, dry spot for up to a week.
  • For longer storage, freeze the chips in portions. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to six months. Simply thaw at room temperature before eating.

If your banana chips lose some crunch over time, pop them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to crisp them up again.



Banana chips in a wooden bowl sprinkled with salt on a wooven basket.


FAQs about making banana chips


Can I make banana chips without an air fryer?


  • To fry: Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the banana slices in a single layer, flipping occasionally, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels, then sprinkle with salt.
  • To bake: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 1½ hours, flipping halfway through, until crisp.

Both methods work well, but the air fryer method uses less oil and gives you an easy, hands-off way to make banana chips at home.

More Caribbean snacks to try


If you loved making these air fryer banana chips, here are more easy Caribbean snacks you’ll want to try next:


Each one is packed with the bold, fresh flavors of the islands — perfect for snacking, sharing, or adding a tropical twist to your day!









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