Can You Oven Cook Frying Chips?

Can you oven cook frying chips? There is little difference between frozen oven chips and deep frying chips. If you bought frying chips by mistake or those are the only ones available at your local store, you can oven cook them without any problem.

Deep Frying vs. Oven Chips

There are several types of frozen chips sold at stores. Oven-cooked chips are meant to be baked in the oven for around 20 minutes. Deep frying chips should be cooked in a deep fryer as per the instructions on the label. Microwavable chips should be cooked in the microwave for around 2-4 minutes depending on amount and level of microwave power.

There are also frozen chips that can be deep fried, oven-cooked or microwaved.

The most common types of chips are deep fried and oven chips. The main difference between them is how they are prepared before they are frozen and packaged.

Because they are not cooked in oil, oven and microwave chips come coated with their own oil, usually sunflower oil (check the ingredients to see which oil has been used). This ensures the chips will come out crispy and golden brown.

Frying chips on the other hand may or may not contain any oil.

How to Oven Cook Frying Chips

Many people think that oven-cooked chips taste dry and bland and prefer deep fried chips.

But it’s all in how you cook them. With the right preparation, oven chips can just be as crispy and tasty and deep fried ones.

As a bonus, baked chips are healthier because they contain less fat. They are also easier and faster to cook and you don’t need special equipment like a deep fryer. A mini-oven, combination microwave or a traditional full size oven will do.

Start by preheating your oven to 220C (gas/fan mark 8) or to the temperature recommended on the label.

While the label on most frying chips say you should pop them in the oven directly, it’s a good idea to coat them in olive or vegetable oil. This will give them a crispier feel.

Spread the chips on a baking tray, making sure they are in a single layer and the chips are adequately spaced out. Do not thaw the chips before baking them. This will damage the flavour and texture. Put them in the oven as they are.

If the chips are unseasoned, feel free to add your own seasoning. Some good recommendations include black pepper, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder. You can experiment with different types of spices.

Put the chips in the preheated oven and set the timer to 20 minutes or as directed on the label. Occasionally turn the chips to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

When they are light golden in colour and feel crisp, they are ready. Be careful not to overcook them.

Additional Tips

When buying frozen chips, check the ingredients and warning labels.

For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, check whether they are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. Also look for the kosher and halal labels (if they apply to you).

Finally, for a stronger flavour, buy seasoned chips. The taste will be richer than if you season them yourself when they are frozen.