Air Fryer Fried Pickles are the perfect snack or appetizer for pickle lovers. These crispy, golden-brown pickles are made without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option while still delivering the same irresistible crunch. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these pickles are sure to satisfy your craving for a salty, crispy treat. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Pickles are an easy and healthier alternative to traditional fried pickles, which are usually deep-fried in oil. The air fryer allows you to achieve a crispy, crunchy coating without the excessive oil, making them lighter but still just as tasty. The seasoned breadcrumb coating gives the pickles a satisfying crunch, while the tangy pickle flavor shines through. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or party dish, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a salty, savory bite. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for a fast yet flavorful snack.

Ingredients

• 1 jar of pickle spears or pickle chips (about 12 oz)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Begin by draining the pickle spears or pickle chips thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Set up a breading station: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Dip each pickle in the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally coat it in the panko-Parmesan mixture. Ensure each pickle is well-coated in each step.

4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Place the breaded pickles in the basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook them in batches.

6. Air fry the pickles for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through for even crisping.

7. Once done, remove the fried pickles from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy mayo.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 8-10 minutes per batch

• Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Fried Pickles: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicier kick.

• Cheesy Fried Pickles: Mix shredded cheddar cheese with the panko breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.

• Sweet and Spicy Fried Pickles: Dip the fried pickles in a sweet and spicy dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or a spicy sriracha honey mix.

• Pickle Chips: Instead of pickle spears, use pickle chips for a bite-sized version of fried pickles that are easy to snack on.

• Gluten-Free Fried Pickles: Use a gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftover fried pickles, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. They may lose some of their crispiness, but you can restore their crunch by reheating them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use dill pickle chips instead of pickle spears?

Yes, dill pickle chips work great for this recipe, and they will be easier to snack on as bite-sized pieces.

2. Do I need to soak the pickles before breading?

No soaking is necessary. Just be sure to drain and pat the pickles dry to prevent excess moisture, which could affect the breading.

3. Can I make these fried pickles with a different coating?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, cornmeal, or a combination of both for the coating. Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness.

4. Can I use a different type of pickle?

Absolutely! You can use sweet pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or any variety you prefer. Just be mindful that the flavor of the pickle will influence the overall taste.

5. Is it possible to make these in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for a crispier texture.

6. How do I keep the fried pickles crispy after cooking?

To keep the pickles crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other and let them cool on a wire rack. This prevents them from getting soggy from trapped steam.

7. Can I freeze the fried pickles?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded pickles before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 1-2 months. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the freezer for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

8. Can I add more seasoning to the breadcrumbs?

Feel free to add more seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or even a bit of ranch seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

9. How do I make the pickles extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure the pickles are as dry as possible before breading and spray them with a little cooking spray before air frying.

10. Can I make these pickles ahead of time?

These fried pickles are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the breaded pickles ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before air frying.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Pickles are the ultimate snack for anyone who loves a crunchy, savory treat. With their light and crispy coating, they offer all the deliciousness of traditional fried pickles, but without the excess oil. Whether served as a fun appetizer, a side dish, or just a snack, these pickles are sure to satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite seasonings, they’re a must-try for any pickle enthusiast!

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