Air Fryer Pita Chips in 10 Mins!
Tired of bland, store-bought pita chips? Get ready to elevate your snacking game with the ultimate homemade pita chip recipe. In just 10 minutes, your air fryer can transform ordinary pita bread into warm, crispy chips bursting with flavor. Whether you crave the classic crunch of sea salt and za’atar or a sweet cinnamon sugar twist, these air-fried pita chips are sure to impress.
Contents
- Air Fryer Pita Chips
- Air Fryer Pita Chips Recipe
- Ingredients
- Directions
- Notes
- Variations
- Don’t Have Pita? Make Tortilla Chips Instead!
- What To Serve With Air Fryer Pita Chips
- Nutritional Information
- How To Store Pita Chips
- Conclusion
- FAQs About Air Fryer Pita Chips
- How do you store homemade pita chips?
- What other seasonings can I use?
- How would you make pita chips in the oven if you didn’t have an air fryer?
- Can you eat pita chips by themselves?
- Are homemade air fryer pita chips healthy?
- What type of oil is best for air frying pita chips?
- Are Homemade Pita Chips Healthy?
Air Fryer Pita Chips
And what’s the perfect pairing for these irresistible chips? Hummus, of course! But don’t limit yourself to just dipping. This versatile spread can be used in countless ways, from upgrading your homemade gyros to adding a creamy layer to kofta sandwiches and arayes. Making your own hummus is a breeze too – just chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice are all you need for a fresh, flavorful base.
Whether you’re a hummus aficionado or simply love a good crunchy snack, these air fryer pita chips are a must-try. With endless possibilities for customization and flavor combinations, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So why settle for store-bought when you can create your own culinary masterpiece in minutes?
What is Sumac? The Secret Ingredient for a Flavorful Punch
Beyond the usual salt and pepper, have you ever considered spicing up your hummus with sumac? This tangy, lemony spice, made from the dried berries of the sumac bush, adds a unique flavor dimension to your favorite dip. Sumac brings a tart, citrusy note with a hint of floral sweetness, making it an essential ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s perfect for cutting through rich flavors and adding a vibrant punch to your dishes. Try sprinkling a generous pinch of sumac on your hummus and serving it alongside garlic powder for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
READ: Chicken Pita Wraps
Seasoning Your Pita Chips
While the classic salt and pepper combo or a sprinkle of onion powder is always a safe bet, the world of seasoning possibilities for your air fryer pita chips is vast and exciting. Don’t hesitate to experiment and craft your unique flavor profiles to suit your individual taste. Here are just a few ideas to spark your culinary creativity:
- Paprika
- Chili Powder and Cumin
- Tajin Seasoning
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Cajun Seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Turmeric
- Curry powder
- Dried Parsley
- Dried Basil
- Dried Rosemary
- Jalapeno Powder
But don’t let this list limit you! Feel free to mix and match these spices, or even add your own favorites. Consider trying a blend of dried Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky depth. If a recipe calls for fresh herbs, simply substitute with dried versions when making your air fryer chips. The air fryer will dry them out quickly, making little difference in the final result. Unleash your inner chef and let your imagination be your guide!
The Tools You Need
As a late adopter to the air fryer craze, I was skeptical at first. Why buy another appliance when I could easily fry things in oil or heat them in my oven? But after finally taking the plunge, I’m a total convert. The convenience and ease of use have made the air fryer a staple in my kitchen. And for this recipe, you’ll only need a few basic tools:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show, this handy appliance will crisp up your pita chips to perfection.
- Knife: For cutting the pita bread into triangles or wedges.
- Bowl: To toss the pita pieces with olive oil and seasonings.
- Spoon: For scooping and spreading the hummus.
- Rubber scraper: To help stir the pita chips in the bowl and ensure they’re evenly coated.
That’s it! No complicated gadgets or fancy equipment required.
Air Fryer Pita Chips Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: Middle Eastern1
servings5
minutes7
minutes191
kcalCrispy, flavorful pita chips made in the air fryer with minimal oil and your choice of seasonings.
Ingredients
2-3 Pita breads (Lebanese flatbread or similar. If using thicker pita pockets, you may need to adjust cooking time to 6–8 minutes to ensure they crisp up properly.)
2–3 tablespoons Olive oil, good quality for sautéing (extra virgin preferred)
Kosher salt, to taste
- Optional seasonings:
Smoked paprika
Za’atar
Everything bagel seasoning
Your favorite spice blend from the cabinet!
Directions
- Cut the pita: Slice each pita pocket into 8 triangles or wedges. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to get even pieces about 1½ inches in size. This will help them brown evenly.
- Toss and season: Add the pita pieces to a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and your choice of seasonings (see suggestions above!). Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. If you’re using a spice blend, you can mix the oil and seasonings in a small bowl before drizzling.
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). If your air fryer basket is not non-stick, line it with parchment paper or a reusable liner. If you have a removable wire rack, that can also help with clean-up and ensure even crisping.
- Air fry: Add the seasoned pita triangles to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pita bread. Thinner Lebanese-style pita bread may take less time, while thicker pita pockets may require a bit longer.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the chips cool slightly before serving. They are perfect as an appetizer with your favorite dip or hummus!
Notes
- Experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- For extra crispy chips, air fry for a minute or two longer.
- To reheat leftover pita chips, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F ( 175°C) for 1-2 minutes.
Variations
While savory pita chips are a classic pairing for hummus, why not try a sweet twist? Air fryer cinnamon sugar pita chips are a surprisingly delicious treat.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips
- Prep the pita: Follow the same cutting instructions as for regular pita chips, slicing each pita into triangles or wedges.
- Coat with sweetness: In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar to your desired level of sweetness. Melt a tablespoon of butter and lightly brush both sides of each pita triangle. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the coated pita triangles in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket occasionally.
- Enjoy: Let the chips cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect for dipping in chocolate hummus or simply enjoying on their own!
Air Fryer Pita Chips: No Oil Needed!
Believe it or not, you don’t need any oil to make crispy pita chips in your air fryer. The circulating hot air is enough to dry out the bread and create that satisfying crunch.
- Prep the pita: Follow the same cutting instructions as before, slicing each pita into triangles or wedges.
- Season (optional): If you want to add flavor, sprinkle the pita pieces with your favorite seasonings. You can use the same suggestions listed above, or get creative with your own spice blends.
- Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the pita triangles in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even browning.
This method is a great option for those who are watching their fat intake or prefer a lighter snack. The pita chips may not be as rich as those made with oil, but they’re still flavorful and satisfying.
Don’t Have Pita? Make Tortilla Chips Instead!
No pita bread on hand? No problem! You can easily use corn or flour tortillas to whip up a batch of crispy chips in your air fryer. Simply cut the tortillas into triangles, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. It’s a quick and easy alternative that’s just as delicious as pita chips.
This section would fit best right after the “How to Make Air Fryer Pita Chips” section. It provides a helpful tip for readers who may not have pita bread readily available but still want to enjoy the crispy goodness of homemade chips.
READ: Grilled Chicken Marinade
What To Serve With Air Fryer Pita Chips
Your homemade pita chips are begging for a delicious dip! While hummus is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Warm Artichoke and Spinach Dip: This creamy, cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser and pairs perfectly with the crispy pita chips.
- Leek Scape and Bacon White Cheddar Dip: A unique twist on a classic dip, the leek scapes add a subtle onion flavor that complements the salty bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.
- Homemade Hummus: Try our simple three-ingredient hummus recipe for a fresh and flavorful dip.
- Salsa: Whether you prefer a chunky salsa or a smooth salsa verde, this zesty dip adds a kick of flavor to your pita chips.
- Pesto: For a fresh and herby dip, try pesto di basilico (basil pesto) or pesto Calabrese (made with roasted red peppers).
How to Warm Pita Bread in the Air Fryer
Want warm, soft pita bread to enjoy with your hummus? You can easily achieve this in your air fryer.
- Spritz with water: Lightly dampen both sides of the pita bread with water. This will help prevent it from drying out in the air fryer.
- Preheat and place: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pita bread directly in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Warm and serve: Air fry for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly puffed. Serve immediately with your favorite dip or hummus.
Tip: If you want a crispier pita, skip the water spritzing step and air fry for a minute or two longer.
Nutritional Information
YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1
CALORIES | 191 |
TOTAL FAT | 10g |
SATURATED FAT | 1g |
TRANS FAT | 0g |
UNSATURATED FAT | 8g |
CHOLESTEROL | 0mg |
SODIUM | 809mg |
CARBOHYDRATES | 23g |
FIBER | 1g |
SUGAR | 1g |
PROTEIN | 4g |
How To Store Pita Chips
To keep your pita chips fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They will stay good on your pantry shelf for up to a week. Avoid using a plastic container with a loose-fitting lid, as this will expose the chips to air and moisture, causing them to become stale.
Conclusion
There you have it – a simple, yet incredibly versatile recipe for homemade air fryer pita chips. Whether you enjoy them with hummus, salsa, or another favorite dip, these chips are sure to become a staple in your snacking repertoire. So grab your air fryer and get creative in the kitchen! The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious.
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FAQs About Air Fryer Pita Chips
How do you store homemade pita chips?
Once cooled, store your pita chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a humid climate, the chips may soften over time. You can refresh them by heating them in the air fryer at 250ºF (120ºC) for 1-2 minutes.
What other seasonings can I use?
Besides the suggestions already mentioned, here are some other delicious seasoning ideas:
- Za’atar
- Plain lemon pepper seasoning
- Italian seasoning
- Umami mushroom blend
- Cayenne pepper
- Rosemary and thyme with sea salt
- Garlic powder and cracked pepper
- Sesame seeds
- Cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat!
How would you make pita chips in the oven if you didn’t have an air fryer?
Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the pita pieces in a single layer and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Thicker Greek pita may require longer baking time.
Can you eat pita chips by themselves?
Absolutely! They’re great on their own, especially if you season them nicely.
Are homemade air fryer pita chips healthy?
While they’re certainly better than deep-fried pita chips, they still contain oil and calories. However, you can control the amount of oil used and choose healthier seasonings to make them a lighter snack.
What type of oil is best for air frying pita chips?
Olive oil is a great choice, as it has a medium-high smoke point. You can also use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or sunflower seed oil.
Are Homemade Pita Chips Healthy?
The healthiness of your homemade pita chips depends on the ingredients you use. If you choose pita pockets made from whole grains instead of refined grains and starches, and use spices and herbs instead of artificial additives, your pita chips can be a relatively healthy snack.