Use This Trick To Revive Stale Tortilla Chips

If you've ever brought home leftover tortilla chips from a restaurant or found an open bag after a party, you probably experienced some disappointment when you had a second go at eating them. Unfortunately, all the crunch and flavor go away after a while, and they're just not as good. While your first instinct may be to toss them and open a new bag, there's actually a way to revive stale tortilla chips.

Since tortilla chips are already cooked, though, you don't want to go overboard with the reheating. If you want them to last even longer, proper storage is the key, Foodsguy shares. Moisture and air are what cause tortilla chips to go soggy and stale, so you'll want to keep them sealed in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, away from any sunlight. They'll last up to three months, which should be enough time for you to figure out what you're going to put on your next batch of nachos.

According to Still Tasty, all you need is an oven or microwave. Per the website's instructions, start with a baking sheet and spread out your tortilla chips. Make sure they're evenly spaced out and that none are overlapping. Then, in a 375-degree oven, bake the tortilla chips for about three to five minutes, or until they've crisped up again.

The microwave method is just as simple. Line a plate with a paper towel before setting the tortilla chips on top, then microwave on high for 15 seconds. Check the crispness and continue microwaving 10 seconds at a time until done.

If you have the option, the air fryer is also a great idea. As Tried Tested True explains, the air fryer is a lot more efficient, because it allows you to do a big batch of chips at once, and it toasts them on all sides. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees, place the chips in the basket, and let it run for two to four minutes. For best results, shake the basket every 30 seconds to prevent any scorching or sticking, and your chips will be good as new.