There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a perfectly seasoned potato chip—especially when you make them yourself! These Barbecue-Spiced Potato Chips are crispy, smoky, and bursting with bold BBQ flavor. They’re oven-baked (or air-fried) for that addictive crunch without deep-frying, making them a little lighter but just as tasty.
Once you try these homemade chips, you might never go back to store-bought. Plus, you can control the seasoning—make them smoky, spicy, or sweet to your liking. They're the perfect snack for movie nights, parties, or alongside your favorite sandwiches and burgers.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Potato Chips
✅ Crispy and flavorful with bold barbecue spices
✅ Baked or air-fried for a lighter, healthier chip
✅ Simple ingredients, big flavor
✅ Great for snacking, parties, or BBQ sides
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
The Secret to the Perfect BBQ Potato Chip
The magic is all in the spice blend! These chips feature a smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy barbecue seasoning that clings to every crispy slice. Think paprika, garlic, onion, and a hint of brown sugar for that classic BBQ chip flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
• 2 large russet potatoes (or Yukon gold)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra kick)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Barbecue-Spiced Potato Chips
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
1. Scrub and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife—aim for about 1/16 inch thick for maximum crispiness.
2. Soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps them crisp up.
3. Drain and pat the slices completely dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Chips
1. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil to coat evenly.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the spice mix over the potato slices and toss to coat.
Step 3: Bake or Air-Fry
For Oven-Baked Chips:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
For Air-Fryer Chips:
1. Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
Step 4: Cool & Serve
1. Let the chips cool on a wire rack for maximum crispiness.
2. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tips & Variations
💡 Slice evenly for consistent crispiness—mandoline recommended.
💡 Adjust spice level by adding more chili powder or cayenne.
💡 Try sweet potatoes for a different twist.
💡 Love smoky flavor? Add a pinch of liquid smoke to the seasoning.
Barbecue Potato Chips FAQs
Can I use store-bought BBQ seasoning?
Absolutely, but making your own lets you control the flavor balance!
Why soak the potatoes?
Soaking removes starch, making the chips crispier.
How do I store them?
Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Perfect for Snacking Anytime
These crispy, smoky Barbecue-Spiced Potato Chips are dangerously addictive. They’re perfect for movie nights, game day, backyard BBQs, or just when a salty, savory craving hits. Once you realize how easy they are to make at home, you might never look at store-bought chips the same way again!