BBQ Chips: 5 Easy Steps to Make Smoky Homemade Potato Chips

BBQ chips are a classic snack beloved for their bold, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor. Whether you’re munching on them at a backyard barbecue, adding them to your sandwich for extra crunch, or enjoying them as a standalone treat, BBQ chips never fail to hit the spot.

Their perfect balance of smoky paprika, tangy spices, and a touch of sweetness makes BBQ chips one of the most popular chip flavors worldwide. But did you know you can easily make your own BBQ chips at home? With a few simple ingredients and key techniques, you can enjoy this savory snack’s fresh, homemade version.

In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of BBQ chips, the ingredients you’ll need, and a step-by-step method to make them. We’ll also share fun ways to enjoy BBQ chips and answer your burning questions about this iconic snack. Let’s get started!

The History of BBQ Chips

The Origins of Flavored Chips

The first flavored potato chips emerged in the 1950s when the idea of seasoning plain potato chips began to catch on. Barbecue flavor was one of the earliest and most successful varieties, combining sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors to create a unique taste.

The Rise of BBQ Chips

Barbecue chips gained immense popularity in the United States and quickly became a global favorite. Their addictive taste, inspired by the classic flavors of barbecue sauce, made them a staple at parties, picnics, and casual snacking sessions. Over time, brands began experimenting with different takes on BBQ, adding spicy, honey, or smoky twists.

For more barbecue-inspired ideas, try this Cattle Drive Casserole, which shares the bold, smoky flavors BBQ chips are known for.

A Worldwide Favorite

Today, BBQ chips are enjoyed worldwide, with regional variations catering to different palates. From smoky Texas-style BBQ to sweet and tangy Carolina flavors, there’s a BBQ chip to suit everyone’s taste.

Ingredients for Homemade BBQ Chips

Making BBQ chips at home is simpler than you might think! Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving bold and vibrant flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potatoes: The Star Ingredient

• Russet potatoes: with their naturally high starch levels and low moisture, are ideal for achieving crispy, golden chips
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Yukon Golds are a great alternative for a slightly buttery flavor.
• Sweet Potatoes (Optional): If you want a twist, sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor and pair beautifully with BBQ seasoning.

Cooking Oil

• Neutral Oils: Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These ensure even frying and don’t overpower the chips’ flavor.
• Optional for Baking: Olive oil works well if you’re baking the chips instead of frying.

BBQ Spice Blend

To create the signature BBQ flavor, you’ll need the following spices:

• Paprika (2 tsp): The base of the smoky flavor. Use smoked paprika for an extra kick.
• Brown Sugar (1 tbsp): Adds sweetness and balances the smoky and tangy notes.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Provides a savory depth.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp): Enhances the BBQ profile.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp): For a hint of heat (optional).
• Salt (1 tsp): Bring out the flavors of the seasoning.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a mild spiciness.

Optional Add-Ons for Variations

• Honey Powder or Maple Sugar: For a sweet BBQ flavor.
• Liquid Smoke (a few drops): Enhances the smoky aroma for that authentic barbecue taste.
• Chili Powder: For a spicier twist.
• Cheese Powder: To create a cheesy BBQ chip variation.

Pair your homemade chips with this Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup for a comforting, satisfying combination

Why Freshness Matters

Using fresh potatoes and high-quality spices ensures that your homemade BBQ chips have a vibrant, authentic flavor. Store-bought chips can sometimes lack the intensity of fresh seasonings, which makes homemade versions a superior choice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making BBQ Chips

Making BBQ chips at home is fun and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create crispy, flavorful chips that rival any store-bought variety.

Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and Peel:
   • Rinse thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or impurities from the potatoes.
   • Peeling the potatoes results in a smoother finish, but leaving the skins on adds a rustic charm.
2. Slice Thinly:
   • Cut the potatoes into even, thin slices (about 1/16 inch thick) using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.

Soak and Dry

1. Soak in Water:
   • Soak the potato slices in a bowl of chilled water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
2. Dry Thoroughly:
   • Thoroughly dry the slices using a clean towel or paper napkins to prevent oil splatters during frying. Moisture left on the potatoes can cause oil to splatter.

Choose Your Cooking Method

Option A: Frying (For Maximum Crispiness)

1. Heat the Oil:
   • Warm the oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or fryer until it reaches the ideal temperature.
2. Fry in Batches:
   • Carefully drop a few slices at a time into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
3. Cook Until Golden:
   • Fry the potato slices in small batches for 2–3 minutes, flipping as needed, until they turn golden and crispy.
4. Drain Excess Oil:
   • Place the cooked chips on absorbent paper to drain any excess oil and keep them crisp.

Option B: Baking (Healthier Alternative)

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Toss in Oil:
   • Coat the potato slices lightly with olive oil, ensuring an even layer for consistent crispness.
3. Arrange on the Sheet:
   • Lay the slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
4. Bake and Flip:
   • Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through until they’re golden and crisp.

Season the Chips

• Timing Is Key:
  Season the chips immediately after frying or baking while they’re still warm so the spices stick well.
• Apply the BBQ Spice Blend:
  Gently toss the freshly cooked chips in a large bowl with your chosen seasoning blend.

Cool and Store

• Let the chips cool fully to lock in their crisp texture before serving.
• Keep any remaining chips in a sealed container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Pro Tip:

Enhance the smoky flavor by incorporating a dash of liquid smoke into your spice mix or oil.

Store-Bought BBQ Chips: What to Look For

Store-bought options are a convenient and tasty alternative if you’re not ready to make BBQ chips from scratch. However, not all BBQ chips are created equal. Here’s how to find the best ones to suit your cravings.

Flavor Balance

• What to Look For:
  The ideal BBQ chip balances smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Too much sweetness can overpower the smokiness, while excessive saltiness can make the chips less enjoyable.
• Pro Tip: Check for natural seasonings like smoked paprika or tomato powder for authentic BBQ flavor.

Texture and Crunch

• Thin and Crispy Chips:
  Look for chips that are thin and evenly fried for a satisfying crunch. These are perfect for snacking or dipping.
• Kettle-Cooked Chips:
  If you prefer thicker, crunchier chips, opt for kettle-cooked varieties. They have a heartier texture and hold up well with dips.

Ingredients

• Natural and Simple Ingredients:
  Choose chips made with natural oils, real spices, and no artificial preservatives.
• Low Additives:
  Avoid chips with long ingredient lists, which often include unnecessary fillers or artificial flavors.

Healthier Options

• Baked BBQ Chips:
  Baked chips are a great alternative to fried ones for a lighter snack. They’re lower in fat but still pack plenty of flavor.
• Low-Sodium Options:
  Some brands offer reduced-sodium versions, ideal for those watching their salt intake.
• Gluten-Free Choices:
  Many BBQ chips are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label to confirm.

Popular Brands to Try

• Lay’s Barbecue Chips: A classic choice with a bold, tangy flavor.
• Kettle Brand Backyard Barbeque: Known for their thicker, crunchier texture and authentic smoky taste.
• Pringles BBQ Chips: A stackable option with a sweet, smoky flavor profile.
• Popchips BBQ: A healthier alternative with fewer calories and a lighter crunch.

Pro Tip:

If you’re planning to serve chips at a party, mix different brands or types (thin, kettle-cooked, and baked) to offer a variety of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Enjoy BBQ Chips

There are endless imaginative ways to enjoy BBQ chips beyond traditional snacking. Whether you’re serving them at a party or incorporating them into meals, these ideas will elevate your BBQ chip experience.

Pair Them with Dips

BBQ chips and dips are a match made in heaven! The smoky, tangy flavor of chips pairs beautifully with a variety of creamy and savory dips:

• Ranch Dip: Ranch’s cool, tangy creaminess balances the smoky flavor.
• French Onion Dip: A savory classic that enhances the BBQ taste.
• Cheese Sauce: Perfect for a warm, gooey pairing with crispy chips.
• Sour Cream and Chive: A simple but satisfying option for extra tang.

Use Them as Toppings

Crushed BBQ chips can add crunch and flavor to a variety of dishes:

• Mac and Cheese: Sprinkle crushed BBQ chips on top before baking for a crispy, smoky crust.
• Casseroles: Use them as a crunchy topping for baked casseroles to replace breadcrumbs.
• Burgers: To add more depth and texture, incorporate them into layered dishes or crunchy toppings.

Create Loaded BBQ Chip Platters

Turn BBQ chips into a sharable dish by topping them with your favorite ingredients:

• BBQ Chip Nachos: Layer BBQ chips with shredded cheese, jalapeños, pulled pork, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
• Buffalo Ranch BBQ Chips: Top your chips with shredded buffalo chicken, a drizzle of ranch, and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor combination.

Pair with Sandwiches and Wraps

Elevate your sandwiches by adding BBQ chips:

• Inside the Sandwich: Layer BBQ chips inside for crunch with every bite. Perfect with grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches.
• As a Side Dish: Serve BBQ chips alongside wraps, sliders, or hot dogs for a smoky snack.

Enjoy Them as a Standalone Party Snack

• Serve the chips in decorative bowls for parties or gatherings. To give them a gourmet touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley.

Pro Tip:

Briefly warm the chips in a low-temperature oven at 250°F (120°C) to revive their crispiness and enhance their aroma.

FAQs

1. Are BBQ chips gluten-free?
Most BBQ chips are naturally gluten-free, as they’re made with potatoes, oil, and spices. However, some brands may add flavorings or additives that contain gluten. Always check the packaging for a “gluten-free” label or review the ingredient list.

2. How long do homemade BBQ chips stay fresh?
Homemade BBQ chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Keep your chips in a dry, cool spot to maintain their texture and flavor.

3. Is it possible to substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work well and add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ seasoning. The process for making sweet potato chips is the same as for regular potatoes.

4. What makes BBQ chips taste smoky?
The smoky flavor in BBQ chips comes from ingredients like smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or chipotle powder. These seasonings mimic the taste of outdoor barbecues and grilled food.

5. Are there vegan-friendly BBQ chip options?
Yes, many chips are vegan-friendly, but some brands include animal-derived ingredients like milk powder or honey. Review the ingredient list or look for a vegan certification to confirm they’re plant-based.

6. How can I make BBQ chips less oily?
To reduce oil, bake instead of fry. Lightly drizzle the potato slices with olive oil, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Air fryers are also a great low-oil alternative for making crispy chips.

Conclusion

BBQ chips are the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, making them a go-to snack for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them straight out of the bag, use them to top casseroles or burgers, or make your own batch at home, BBQ adds excitement to every bite.

Homemade BBQ chips offer the added customizable bonus—you can adjust the seasoning, use alternative ingredients like sweet potatoes, or experiment with baking for a healthier option. Meanwhile, store-bought options provide convenience and a variety of flavors to suit your taste.

So, whether you’re snacking solo, hosting a party, or looking to jazz up your favorite dishes, BBQ chips are a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Why not try making your own at home or pair your favorite brand with a delicious dip today? Snack smart and savor the smoky goodness!