Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes—this ensures even crisping from the moment the chips hit the basket. While it preheats, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Having the basket ready before you mix the cottage cheese mixture keeps your workflow smooth.

In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout—you want every bite to have consistent flavor. I like to taste a small spoonful and adjust the salt or spices if needed before cooking, since seasoning can't be corrected once they're in the air fryer.

Using a spoon, create 2-inch circles of the cottage cheese mixture directly onto your prepared air fryer basket, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart so hot air can circulate around each chip. Once all portions are shaped, drizzle the 1.5 teaspoons of olive oil evenly over the tops—this helps them crisp up beautifully and develop those golden edges. I find using a light hand with the oil gives you crispier chips than overly saturating them.

Place the basket in your preheated air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. At the 5-6 minute mark, carefully flip each chip so the other side can crisp up evenly. Watch for them to turn golden brown and firm around the edges—they'll continue to firm up as they cool, so don't wait for them to be rock-hard in the fryer.

Transfer the chips to a plate or cooling rack and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before eating. This cooling time allows them to set completely and reach their crispiest texture. Serve them warm or at room temperature as a snack or alongside your favorite dip.