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Crispy air fryer fried pickles on a plate. Quick and easy recipe!
Lady Maria

Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Enjoy crispy, tangy fried pickles made easily in your air fryer! This recipe uses a double-dredge technique for maximum crunch and a perfectly balanced seasoning blend. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's a healthier and customizable alternative to traditional deep-fried pickles.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a little kick!
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • 3 shallow dishes or bowls
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • paper towels
  • tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pickles: Drain the pickle slices well and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Set Up the Dredging Station: In the first shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk together.
  3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In the second shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
  4. Prepare the Panko: In the third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Double-Dredge the Pickles: Dredge a pickle slice in the flour mixture, ensuring it's completely coated. Shake off excess flour.
  6. Dip in Egg Wash: Dip the floured pickle slice into the egg wash, ensuring it's fully submerged. Let excess egg wash drip off.
  7. Coat with Panko: Dredge the pickle slice in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere. The pickle should be completely coated in panko.
  8. Repeat Dredging: Repeat steps 5-7 with all the pickle slices.
  9. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded pickle slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching. Work in batches if needed.
  11. Air Fry: Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pickles are golden brown and crispy.
  12. Serve Immediately: Remove the fried pickles from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For best results, ensure pickles are very dry before breading. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model. Store leftover breaded pickles in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispness. Try different dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and panko.