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The Ultimate Crispy Fried Pickles Recipe (Deep Fried & Air Fryer Instructions)

A close-up of a generous serving of golden brown, extra-crunchy Fried Pickles piled high on a white bowl.
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Make incredibly crispy, zesty fried pickles at home. This recipe provides instructions for both traditional deep frying and a healthier air fryer method, perfect for game day snacks or a Southern appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 jar (16 oz) dill pickle chips, drained well
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for zest)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)

Instructions

  1. Place the drained pickle chips between layers of paper towels and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is key for crispy fried pickles.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and milk until combined.
  4. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Working in small batches, dredge the pickle chips first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  6. Next, dip the floured pickles into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
  7. Finally, press the pickles firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, coating them completely. Place the breaded pickles on a wire rack or plate.
  8. For Deep Frying: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the pickles into the hot oil in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crunchy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  9. For Air Fryer Fried Pickles: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded pickles in a single layer (work in batches). Spray the tops of the pickles generously with cooking spray. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  10. Serve the crispy fried pickles immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a Texas Roadhouse copycat flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano and a dash of mustard powder to the flour mixture.
  • For the best results, chill the breaded pickles on a baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before frying or air frying. This helps the coating adhere.
  • Serve these with a zesty ranch dipping sauce or a spicy comeback sauce for a complete Southern appetizer experience.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishsymphony.com/fried-pickles-ultimate-crispy-recipe/