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crispy air fryer banitsa chips recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Banitsa Chips Recipe

Crispy air fryer banitsa chips are a fun modern twist on traditional Bulgarian banitsa made with flaky filo pastry, cheesy filling, and buttery crispy layers. These crunchy Balkan-inspired chips are quick to make in the air fryer and perfect for dipping into ajvar, tarator, whipped feta, or garlic yogurt sauce. They work beautifully as party appetizers, mezze board snacks, or easy savory treats with rich homemade flavor and irresistible crunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Balkan, Bulgarian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For The Banitsa Chips
  • 8 sheets filo dough
  • 4 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup crumbled Bulgarian sirene cheese or feta
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp yogurt
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp nigella seeds optional
  • Fresh black pepper
  • Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
  • Dill
  • Parsley
  • Chili flakes
  • Smoked paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Spinach
  • Mozzarella
  • Kashkaval cheese

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare The Filling
  1. In a bowl, mix the cheese, egg, yogurt, and black pepper until creamy but still slightly crumbly.
Step 2: Layer The Filo Dough
  1. Lay one filo sheet flat and lightly brush with melted butter and olive oil.
  2. Place another sheet on top and spread a thin layer of cheese filling.
  3. Repeat with the remaining sheets and filling.
Step 3: Cut Into Chips
  1. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the layered pastry into triangles, strips, or squares.
  2. Sprinkle sesame seeds and nigella seeds over the top.
Step 4: Air Fry
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
  2. Place the banitsa chips in a single layer inside the basket.
  3. Air fry for 7–10 minutes until deeply golden, flaky, and crispy.
  4. Flip halfway through cooking if needed.

Notes

  • Keep filo dough covered with a damp towel while assembling.
  • Do not overfill the pastry layers.
  • Cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
  • Let the chips cool slightly before serving for extra crunch.