Air Fryer Rice Paper Chips: Ultra-Crispy, Light, and Addictively Crunchy
If you’re looking for a snack that’s light, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make, Air Fryer Rice Paper Chips are about to become your new go-to. Made with simple rice paper wrappers and cooked in the air fryer, these chips puff up beautifully, creating a crisp texture that rivals store-bought chips, without deep frying. They’re fast, customizable, and perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving alongside meals.
What Are Air Fryer Rice Paper Chips?
Air fryer rice paper chips are thin pieces of rice paper that are lightly oiled, seasoned, and air-fried until they puff and crisp. Similar to fried prawn crackers but completely plant-based, these chips transform from flat sheets into airy, crunchy bites in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- Light and crispy with no deep frying
- Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
- Naturally gluten-free
- Perfect base for endless seasoning options
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rice paper wrappers
- Cooking oil spray or a light brush of oil
- Salt, to taste
Optional Seasonings:
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder or paprika
- Onion powder
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Nutritional yeast
How to Make Air Fryer Rice Paper Chips
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Paper
Cut dry rice paper wrappers into quarters or triangles using scissors. Do not soak them in water.
Step 2: Season
Lightly spray or brush the rice paper pieces with oil. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F). Place the rice paper pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3–5 minutes, flipping once, until puffed and crisp.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Remove from the air fryer and allow the chips to cool slightly. They will become even crispier as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Rice Paper Chips
- Do not soak the rice paper before air frying
- Avoid overcrowding the basket
- Keep an eye on them—they cook fast
- Season lightly; rice paper crisps best with minimal moisture
- Let them cool fully for maximum crunch
Flavor Variations
Savory Garlic Chips
Sprinkle with garlic powder and onion powder before air frying.
Spicy Chips
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika.
Cheesy Vegan Chips
Dust with nutritional yeast after cooking.
Sweet Version
Lightly spray with oil and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after air frying.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Sweet chili sauce
- Peanut sauce
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Soy sauce with chili oil
Storage & Shelf Life
- Best eaten fresh
- Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
- Re-crisp in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes if needed
Why the Air Fryer Works So Well
The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation, which causes the rice paper to puff and crisp evenly without heavy oil. This creates a lighter, cleaner crunch compared to deep frying.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Rice Paper Chips are a fun, fast, and incredibly crunchy snack made with almost no effort. Whether you keep them simple or load them with bold seasonings, they’re a creative way to turn a humble ingredient into something totally addictive. Once you try them, you’ll always keep rice paper on hand for quick snack cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Do I need to soak the rice paper before air frying?
No. Unlike spring rolls, rice paper should stay dry. Soaking will prevent it from crisping and cause it to tear during cooking.
What temperature should I use in the air fryer?
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F). This temperature crisps the rice paper quickly without burning it.
How long do the chips take to cook?
Rice paper chips cook very quickly, typically 3–5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they puff and crisp almost instantly.
Can I stack the rice paper chips in the air fryer?
No. To ensure even crisping, place the pieces in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent puffing.
Can I make flavored rice paper chips?
Yes! Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili flakes, nutritional yeast, or cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.
Are these chips gluten-free?
Yes, rice paper is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added seasonings or dips are also gluten-free.
Can I bake rice paper chips in the oven instead?
Yes. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake in a single layer for about 5–7 minutes until crisp, flipping halfway through.
Why aren’t my chips puffing up?
Dry rice paper should puff instantly in hot air. If they’re not puffing, the air fryer may not be hot enough, or the rice paper may be damp or stacked too closely.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, but cook in batches to prevent overcrowding. This ensures each chip puffs evenly and crisps properly.
How should I store leftover chips?
Store cooled chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Re-crisp in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes if they soften.
Can I use these chips for dips?
Absolutely. They’re perfect for salsa, guacamole, peanut sauce, chili sauce, or even hummus.
Are air fryer rice paper chips healthy?
Yes, they’re light, low in fat, and contain minimal oil compared to traditional deep-fried snacks.
Can I make sweet rice paper chips?
Yes! Lightly spray with oil and sprinkle cinnamon sugar or cocoa powder after air frying for a dessert-style chip.
Do I need to flip the chips while cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even browning and prevents burning on one side.
Can I make them spicy?
Yes! Add chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne to the oil or seasoning before air frying for a spicy kick.