The work aims to prepare the AgNPs composite films by adding the nano-silver (AgNPs) to chitosan (CS), so as to investigate the effect of AgNPs content (mass fraction: 0.5%, 1% and 2%) on the structure and performance of the composite films. AgNPs were firstly synthesized via reduction by citrus peel extract, and then were incorporated into CS to prepare the composite films through blending casting. The FTIR spectra, micro-morphologies, swelling ratio and solubility, tensile properties and antibacterial effects of the composite films were measured. AgNPs synthesized via reduction with citrus peel extract showed good dispersion in chitosan matrix. When the mass fraction of AgNPs was 1% or above, the degree of crystallinity of the composite films was deceased. Therefore, the swelling ratio and solubility of the composite films were significantly increased, and the tensile strength and elongation at break were remarkably decreased. However, the inhibition effect of the composite films toward the growth of E. coli and S.aureus was significantly enhanced with the increasing content of AgNPs. AgNPs are well dispersed in chitosan matrix, and significantly improve the antibacterial activities of the composite films.