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The Ultimate Crispy Fried Pickles Recipe (Restaurant-Style & Air Fryer Options)

A tall pile of golden brown, crispy Fried Pickles stacked high on a white plate.
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Learn how to make perfectly crispy, golden fried pickles at home. This recipe gives you the classic deep-fried version and a lighter air fryer alternative, complete with a zesty dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 jar (16 ounces) dill pickle chips, drained well
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 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 gently 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, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
  3. In the second dish, whisk together 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 seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  6. Next, dip the floured pickles into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
  7. Finally, press the pickles firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure they are fully coated. Place the breaded pickles on a clean baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. For Deep Frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add pickles in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
  9. For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded pickles with cooking spray or a light coating of oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crunchy.
  10. Serve your crispy fried pickles immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For the best results, chill the breaded pickles on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before frying or air frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
  • If you are making the Texas Roadhouse Copycat style, use a slightly thicker batter mixture for the wet stage, perhaps adding a splash of pickle juice to the egg wash.
  • To make a simple Fried Pickle Dipping Sauce, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/fried-pickles-recipe-crispy-easy-air-fryer/