Name: Air Fryer Fried Pickles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487146H56M13S
Total time: PT-487146H56M13S
Ingredients: 2 cups dill pickle slices (drained and patted dry); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg plus 1 tablespoon water (egg wash); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional); ¼ tsp black pepper; Pinch of salt; Cooking oil or spray (olive oil spray recommended)

I make these Air Fryer Fried Pickles when I crave a crunchy, tangy snack that’s just as satisfying as the deep-fried version—but far less greasy and quick to prepare.

Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it uses basic pantry ingredients—pickle slices, eggs, flour, hot sauce, and Panko—to make a crispy, zesty appetizer in under 25 minutes. The airy, golden coating gives that classic fried pickle crunch, and with a creamy dip on the side, it’s a perfect crowd‑pleaser.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pickles

1 cup sliced pickles
2 large eggs
3 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp hot sauce (like Tabasco)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the dip

¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup minced onion (finely minced)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried dill (optional)

directions

I dry the pickle slices thoroughly by placing them between paper towels—it ensures the coating sticks properly.
I whisk eggs, flour, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in one shallow bowl.
In another bowl, I place the panko breadcrumbs.
I dip each pickle slice into the egg mixture, shake off excess, then coat it evenly with panko. I transfer coated slices to a baking sheet while working through the batch.
I preheat the air fryer to 400 °F (200 °C). Then I arrange pickle slices in a single layer in the basket—spaced out to allow air flow—and lightly spray them with cooking oil.
I air-fry for 5–7 minutes per side, flipping halfway and spraying the second side, until golden brown and crispy.

Servings and timing

Serves: about 6 people as an appetizer
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes (5–7 min per side)
Total time: ~25 minutes

variations

I sometimes add garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne to the egg wash or breadcrumbs for extra flavor kick.
Instead of pickle slices, I’ve tried spears—just adjust cooking time and breading accordingly.
For gluten‑free options, I swap in gluten‑free panko or breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I return them to the air fryer or oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for a few minutes to restore crispness. I avoid microwaving because it makes the coating soggy.

FAQs

Why won’t the breading stick?

Often it’s because the pickles weren’t dried well enough. Also make sure to press the breadcrumb layer firmly so it adheres before air frying.

Can I reduce the greasiness even further?

Yes—I barely pan‑spray or brush oil lightly rather than dunking in frying oil. The air fryer gives crisp texture without needing heavy oil.

How long should they air fry?

Cooking times vary by model, but generally 8–10 minutes total at 400 °F, flipping halfway gives crisp, golden results. Rotate or check if your unit heats unevenly.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch dressing is classic. I also enjoy sour cream–mayo dips, spicy mayo, or a dill‑flavored sauce. The recipe’s included dip is creamy and tangy with onion and garlic notes.

Can I prep them ahead?

I prefer to bread them just before cooking so the coating stays crisp. If needed, you can bread the pickles and refrigerate briefly, then air-fry shortly before serving.

Conclusion

I turn to these Air Fryer Fried Pickles when I want something salty, tangy, and finger-friendly without the fuss of deep-frying. They’re crunchy on the outside, briny inside, made in under half an hour—and with that creamy dip, they disappear fast at any gathering.

Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe