Make crisp, homemade tortilla chips in your microwave with just three ingredients. A quick, healthier snack ready in under five minutes.
I have a serious love affair with tortilla chips — once I start snacking, it’s hard to stop. Instead of fighting it, I learned to make my own fresh, hot chips in minutes so I can satisfy cravings without leaving the house. This method is fast, simple, and yields crunchy chips perfect for dipping.
Ingredients
- corn tortillas
- cooking spray or a light brush of oil
- salt
Instructions
Cut three corn tortillas into quarters. Arrange the pieces in a single layer on a large microwave-safe plate, avoiding overlap. Lightly mist or brush both sides with cooking spray or oil, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes. Carefully remove the plate using oven mitts, flip the chips, and microwave for another minute until they are crisp. Let the plate cool slightly, then serve the chips immediately with your favorite dip.
Flavor Variations
Try these easy seasoning ideas to change the profile of your chips:
- Lime juice, salt, and chili powder for a bright, tangy kick.
- Cinnamon and sugar instead of salt for a sweet treat.
- Chili powder with a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Pro Tips
- Watch the chips closely while microwaving — they go from soft to burnt very quickly.
- The plate will be extremely hot when you remove it; use oven mitts and let the plate rest a minute before handling.
- For a favorite finishing touch, drizzle lime juice and sprinkle chili powder right after cooking.
FAQs
Can you make tortilla chips with flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas should work similarly, though texture and cooking time may vary. I’ve also made chips from pita bread with good results.
How long do homemade tortilla chips stay crisp?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay crisp for up to a week, though they are best the same day. If not stored properly they will become chewy.
Are microwave tortilla chips healthier?
Because they aren’t deep-fried, these chips can be a lower-fat option. You control the amount of oil and salt, and thicker corn tortillas often hold up well to dips like guacamole.
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy in bulk. Larger packages of corn tortillas are often cheaper per tortilla and give you more snacks for your money.
- Choose store brands. Generic cooking spray and salt are usually more economical without sacrificing quality.
More appetizer ideas
Serve these chips with layered dips, vegan cheese sauce, or hummus for easy entertaining. They pair well with a variety of salsas and spreads.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating to share how it turned out!
Homemade Tortilla Chips in the Microwave
5 from 11 reviews
- Author: Emily Cooper, RDN
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Three simple ingredients make a quick, healthier snack ready in under five minutes.
Ingredients
- 3 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- cooking spray or a light brush of oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Place cut tortillas in a single layer on a large microwave-safe plate without overlapping.
- Spray or brush the exposed side with cooking spray or oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Flip the pieces and repeat the spray/oil and salt on the other side.
- Microwave on high for 3 minutes, then carefully remove the plate with oven mitts.
- Flip the chips and microwave for an additional minute, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the plate with oven mitts, allow it to cool briefly, and serve the chips immediately.
Notes
- Chips are best served right away but can be stored in a sealed container for a day.
- Remain near the microwave while cooking; chips can burn quickly.
- Allow the plate to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving — it will be very hot.
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: microwave
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 chips
- Calories: 82
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 298 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
Make it a great day!
Potato chips or tortilla chips?
What’s your favorite chip dip?