Simple Fried Pickle Recipe for Air Fryer – Crispy, Tangy, and Easy

If you’re a fan of crispy, tangy, and savory snacks, fried pickles are a must-try! Traditionally a deep-fried delicacy served in Southern cuisine, fried pickles have become a favorite appetizer or snack in homes and restaurants alike. But if you’re looking for a healthier, less greasy option that still delivers on flavor and crunch, this “Simple Fried Pickle Recipe for Air Fryer” is just what you need. With fewer calories and less mess than the traditional method, air frying takes this classic dish to the next level.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making air fryer fried pickles, from the ingredients and preparation to nutritional information and serving suggestions.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American, Southern
• Course: Appetizer, Snack
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 8 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~80 calories per serving

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

This Simple Fried Pickle Recipe for Air Fryer is a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version. Here’s the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe):

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 2.5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Sugar: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls or plates (for breading process)
• Tongs or a fork
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Paper towels (for patting pickles dry)

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Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need simple pantry staples and a jar of pickles:

• Pickles: 1 cup dill pickle slices (chips or spears, depending on preference)
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Buttermilk: 2 tablespoons (optional for extra flavor)
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch)
• Cornmeal: 2 tablespoons (optional, for added texture)
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Non-stick Cooking Spray

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

1. Start by removing the pickles from the jar and placing them on a plate lined with paper towels.
2. Pat the pickles dry with another paper towel. This step is crucial to ensure the breading sticks to the pickles and doesn’t become soggy.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

1. Prepare three shallow bowls or plates:
   • In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
   • In the second bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until smooth.
   • In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, cornmeal (if using), garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.

Step 3: Bread the Pickles

1. Working one pickle slice at a time, coat it in the flour, ensuring all sides are covered. Shake off any excess.
2. Dip the floured pickle into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Finally, coat the pickle in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breading. Repeat with all pickle slices.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pickles

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Place the breaded pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
3. Lightly spray the tops of the pickles with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
4. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pickles should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Allow the fried pickles to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let them crisp up further.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fried Pickles

1. Choose the Right Pickles: Dill pickles work best for this recipe, but you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles for a unique twist.
2. Pat Them Dry: This step is essential to avoid soggy breading. Make sure to thoroughly dry your pickles before breading.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Air fry in batches if needed. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
4. Experiment with Spices: Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. Add Italian seasoning or onion powder for a different flavor profile.
5. Serve Fresh: Air-fried pickles are best enjoyed fresh and warm. They may lose their crunch if stored and reheated.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Fried Pickles?

Air frying is a game-changer for making fried pickles. Compared to traditional deep frying, it:

• Reduces the amount of oil needed, making the recipe healthier.
• Creates a crispy texture without the extra calories.
• Is faster, cleaner, and more convenient.

This method preserves the tangy flavor of the pickles while delivering a satisfying crunch, making it an excellent option for those who love fried foods but are mindful of their health.

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Conclusion

This “Simple Fried Pickle Recipe for Air Fryer” is a delicious, healthier twist on a classic snack. Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun appetizer, these crispy bites will be a hit with anyone who loves pickles. With minimal prep time and a fraction of the calories compared to deep frying, this recipe is an easy way to satisfy your cravings guilt-free. So grab your air fryer and whip up a batch today—your taste buds will thank you!