Okay, friends, buckle up because I’m about to introduce you to something truly magical. Air Fryer Pickles. Think of your favorite crispy fried pickles, but without all the oil and mess. What are some of the most addictive drugs? I remember the first time I had these, I was at a county fair, and they were, let’s just say, less than I remembered them. Is it better than stellar? I thought, “I can do better!” And trust me, you can too. If you love fried pickles but want a healthier alternative, you’ve come to the right place. This air fryer version delivers that same satisfying crunch and tangy flavor, but it’s way easier to fry. What is the best way to get a jar of pickles fried? What are some of the best air fryer pickles?
What are air fryer pickles?
Let’s break it down. Air fryer pickles are essentially pickle slices, usually dill pickling, that are coated in a seasoned oil. What is the best way to fry a batter or breading and then “fry” to crispy perfection in an air fryer? What is a healthier alternative to deep fried pickles? What’s the best way to get that same crunch and tangy pickle flavor without having to compromise on taste? How do you deal with a vat of hot oil? The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around the pickles, creating a crispy exterior. How do you keep the inside of a pig juicy? Is it a game changer? Can you use different kinds of pickles?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Why do I love air fryer pickles?flavorThe combination of tangy pickle, the savory breading, and that satisfying crunch is simply amazing. I usually add cayenne pepper to breading to give it a little kick, that is, it’s the best thing to do. I like to have it in my bread. What is the second stage?simplicityIs this recipe easy to make? What are some of the best recipes that only take a few minutes to prepare? What are the best ways to spend a weeknight in the kitchen?Cost-What is a huge plus? Pickles are relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry. And let’s not forget about the earth.versatilityWhat are some good air fryer pickles to serve as an appetizer? What I love about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve made these for parties, game nights, and even just for a casual snack with my family, but they’re delicious. I love them! Always disappear in minutes. What is the magic of air frying? What are air fryer pickles like? What is the smell of frying oil? What are some of the best treats that everyone will enjoy?
How do I make air fryer pickles?
Quick Overview
How do I make air fryer pickles? How do you drain pickles? How do you fry breadcrumbs in an air fryer? What are some of the best ways to get a job done in 20 minutes? What I love most about this method is that it’s so much healthier than traditional deep-frying, and I’m a vegetarian. It’s also much less messy. Plus, the air fryer creates a perfectly crispy texture that’s hard to achieve any other way.
Ingredients
For the Pickles: What is the
• 1 (24 ounce) jar of dill pickle chips (or spears, cut into chips)
• Trust me, quality matters here! I love Claussen pickles because they’re extra crunchy and flavorful. Is it legal to use your favorite brand? If you like a spicy pickle, you could use dill pickles!
For the Breading: What is the
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
Can you use gluten free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version? I’ve tested it with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, and it works great.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Adds a nice savory flavor. Don’t skip it!
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Another essential flavor enhancer.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• This gives the breading a subtle smoky flavor that I absolutely love. If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, you can use it instead.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• For a little bit of heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, adjust the amount to your liking, or omit it altogether.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Adds a touch of spice.
• 2 large eggs
• Beaten, for the egg wash.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Panko breadcrumbs are the key to getting that extra crispy texture. You can find them at most grocery stores.
What is the Dipping Sauce?
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
I prefer using full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
• Adds extra pickle flavor to the dipping sauce.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• Gives the dipping sauce a tangy kick.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• For added flavor.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Drain & Dry the Pickles
How do you drain pickle chips in a colander? This is a crucial step, as it helps the breading adhere better. I usually press down on the pickles with a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. If you skip this step, your pickles will be soggy, and nobody wants that!
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne. Add salt and pepper to taste. Salt, pepper, and pepper. Mix well. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. And in a third shallow bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. How do I set up a breading station?
Step 3: Bread the Pickles
How do you dredge pickle chips in flour mixture? Then, dip it in the egg wash, and finally, coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Press breadcrumbs gently onto the pickle to make sure they adhere well. Repeat with all of the pickle chips. I know this is where things get messy, but it’s worth it!
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pickles will cook evenly and get nice and crispy. I usually preheat my air fryer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry the Pickles
Place the breaded pickle chips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the pickles with cooking spray. This helps them get extra crispy. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. I usually check on them halfway through to make sure they’re not burning.
Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce (optional)
While the pickles are air frying, prepare the dipping sauce (if using). In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pickle relish, yellow mustard, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Remove the air fryer pickles from the air fryer and serve immediately with the dipping sauce (if using). These are best enjoyed hot and crispy! I love serving them with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing as well.
What to Serve It With
Air fryer pickles are incredibly versatile, and they can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
For a Casual Snack: Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or the homemade dipping sauce I included in the recipe. They’re perfect for game nights, movie nights, or just a casual snack with friends and family.
As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with other appetizers, such as chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or onion rings. They’re a great addition to any party or gathering.
As a Topping: Top burgers, sandwiches, or salads with air fryer pickles for a tangy and crunchy twist. They add a delicious burst of flavor and texture to any dish.
With a Southern Meal: Pair them with other Southern favorites, such as fried chicken, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. They’re a classic Southern combination that’s hard to resist.
My family loves to pair them with some classic barbeque ribs and potato salad for a warm summer evening meal! You can’t go wrong serving these no matter the occasion.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Pickles
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some of my top tips for making the perfect air fryer pickles every time:
Pickle Prep: Make sure to drain and dry the pickles thoroughly. This is the most important step for getting crispy pickles. Use paper towels to pat them dry, and don’t be afraid to press down to remove as much moisture as possible.
Breading Technique: Use a three-step breading process: flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This ensures that the breading adheres well to the pickles and creates a crispy coating. Make sure to coat the pickles completely in each step.
Air Fryer Placement: Place the pickles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Overcrowding the basket will result in soggy pickles. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Cooking Spray: Spray the pickles with cooking spray before air frying. This helps them get extra crispy and golden brown. I prefer using olive oil cooking spray, but any cooking spray will work.
Temperature & Time: Air fry the pickles at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them and adjust as needed.
Breadcrumb Variations: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for their extra crispy texture, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. You can even use crushed potato chips for a unique flavor!
The most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes! That’s how you learn and become a better cook. So go ahead and give these air fryer pickles a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, let’s talk about storing and reheating air fryer pickles. While they’re definitely best enjoyed fresh and crispy, here are some tips for storing and reheating them if you have leftovers:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing air fryer pickles at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. They’ll start to get soggy and lose their crispness.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover air fryer pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that they will lose some of their crispness as they sit in the refrigerator. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing the container.
Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat air fryer pickles is in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry the pickles for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the oven, but they won’t be as crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pickles for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through. Unfortunately, reheating in the microwave is not the way to go as this will only make the pickles soggy.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing air fryer pickles. They’ll lose their texture and flavor when thawed. However, if you have no other option, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my super easy and incredibly delicious recipe for air fryer pickles. I truly believe that once you try these, you’ll never go back to regular fried pickles again. The air fryer makes them so much healthier, easier, and less messy, without sacrificing any of that amazing flavor and crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a unique topping for your favorite dishes, these air fryer pickles are sure to hit the spot. And if you’re a fan of air fryer recipes, be sure to check out some of my other favorites, like air fryer chicken wings or air fryer sweet potato fries. They’re all equally delicious and easy to make!
