If you’re craving a snack that is both satisfyingly crunchy and packed with protein, you’re going to love this Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe. These thin, golden chicken jerky chips offer the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and health-conscious goodness, making them an ideal choice whether you’re fueling up for a workout, need a low-carb snack, or simply want something deliciously different. Made easily in your oven or air fryer, these chips are the kind of treat you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple for this Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the savory, smoky flavor and achieving the perfect crispy texture that makes these chips irresistible.
- 1 lb thinly sliced chicken breast: The star of the dish, thin slicing ensures even drying and a crisp finish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances natural flavors and helps with moisture removal for crispiness.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky aroma that delights the senses.
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder: For those who love a bit more savory depth in their jerky chips.
How to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by thinly slicing your chicken breast. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be. Pat each piece dry thoroughly using paper towels – this step is key to removing excess moisture so your chips bake evenly and turn delightfully crunchy.
Step 2: Season with Care
Sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and the optional garlic powder over both sides of each chicken slice. Take a moment to rub these seasonings gently into the meat so every bite bursts with flavor. Don’t rush this part; the seasoning makes all the difference between bland and outstanding.
Step 3: Arrange for Perfect Crisping
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and neatly lay out the chicken slices in a single layer without overlapping. This spacing is crucial because it allows heat to circulate around each chip, drying them out consistently and evenly.
Step 4: Bake Low and Slow
Preheat your oven to 200°F (or 95°C) or set your air fryer to 190°F (90°C). Bake or air-fry the chicken slices for 2 to 3 hours, flipping them halfway through the process. This slow-and-low method dehydrates the chicken without cooking it at high heat, which prevents burning and keeps the texture just right.
Step 5: Cool and Store Smartly
Once your chicken chips are dry and crispy, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool completely. This cooling step ensures they firm up and achieve maximum crunch. Store your chips in an airtight container to keep them fresh and ready whenever hunger strikes.
How to Serve Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe
Garnishes
While the chicken chips are fantastic on their own, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a pop of color and flavor. For a zesty twist, a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan makes these chips even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these high-protein chicken chips with creamy dips such as guacamole, ranch, or a spicy yogurt sauce. They also work wonderfully alongside fresh vegetable sticks or a crisp green salad, balancing crunchy and fresh bites for an enjoyable snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chips stacked in small bowls or wrapped in parchment cones for a fun finger-food vibe, perfect for parties or on-the-go snacking. You can also crush them over soups or salads as a crunchy topping, adding protein and texture wherever you like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover chicken chips in an airtight airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their crispiness and prevent any unwanted moisture.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life of these Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled chips in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw briefly at room temperature or re-crisp in a low oven.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked crunch, pop your stored chips into a preheated oven at 200°F for about 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. This quick reheat will make the chips crisp up beautifully as if they’ve just come out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
While chicken breast is ideal for its lean and tender qualities, you can experiment with chicken thigh slices, although they may not crisp as thoroughly due to higher fat content.
Is it necessary to use smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth and warmth, but if you don’t have it on hand, regular paprika or a mild chili powder can be a good substitute to maintain flavor complexity.
Why do I need to flip the chicken chips halfway through baking?
Flipping ensures both sides dry evenly and achieve a perfect, consistent crisp. Skipping this step may result in one side being soft or less cooked.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely! The oven method works wonderfully and is actually preferable for slow drying. Just maintain the low temperature and patience needed for great results.
How thin should the chicken slices be?
Aim for slices approximately 1/8 inch thick or thinner. This thinness is key to achieving the crisp, jerky-like texture that makes these chips so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into making this Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe. It’s a deliciously simple way to enjoy a wholesome, protein-packed snack that fits perfectly into a low-carb, keto lifestyle or any time you want a guilt-free treat. Once you taste these crunchy, flavorful chips, I promise they’ll become your go-to snack for powering through your day or sharing with friends. Happy snacking!
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Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Chips (High-Protein Jerky Snack) Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Thin, crispy chicken jerky chips made from high-protein chicken breast, baked or air-fried to a perfect crunch. These low-carb, healthy snacks are easy to prepare and ideal for on-the-go nibbling.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb thinly sliced chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Equipment: Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) or set your air fryer to 190°F (90°C) to prepare for slow drying of the chicken slices.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the thin chicken slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing for crispier chips. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and optional garlic powder.
- Arrange Slices: Lay the chicken slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap to ensure even drying.
- Cook Until Crisp: Bake in the oven or air-fry for 2 to 3 hours. Flip the slices halfway through the cooking time to promote even drying and crispiness. Cook until the chicken is completely dry and crisp to the touch.
- Cool and Store: Remove the chicken chips from heat and let them cool thoroughly. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For best results, slice chicken as thinly as possible to achieve maximum crispness.
- Store the chicken chips in an airtight container for up to one week.
- If chips soften after storage, re-crisp by briefly baking in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Snack, High Protein
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
