Hi David. I dry chilies fresh or from the deep freeze in the oven all the time with no problem at all. I cut them in half and spread them on a sheet of expanded metal (mesh) I set the oven at around 80/90'C (200'f) Leave the door ajar and usually let them dry overnight. I then grind into powder no problem except don't snort too much dust:-) Tony Flynn Grandad. Retired at the beach. Bay of Plenty. New Zealand