Southern Fried Pickles Recipe Air Fryer

If you’re a fan of Southern comfort food with a modern twist, then you’re in for a treat! Fried pickles are a quintessential Southern delicacy that blends tangy pickles with a perfectly crispy coating. However, traditional deep-frying methods can add unnecessary calories and oil. Enter the air fryer—a kitchen hero that lets you enjoy the same crunchy goodness with significantly less fat.

This Southern Fried Pickles Recipe Air Fryer is a healthier, quicker alternative that’s perfect for game day snacks, casual gatherings, or even an indulgent solo treat. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can whip up a guilt-free version of this irresistible appetizer in no time.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: Southern, American
• Course: Appetizer, Snack
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 120 kcal

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Ingredients

To make these crispy Southern fried pickles, you’ll need:

1. Pickles:
   • 1 cup dill pickle slices (about ¼ inch thick)
   • Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Coating Ingredients:
   • ½ cup all-purpose flour
   • 2 large eggs (beaten)
   • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
   • ½ teaspoon onion powder
   • ½ teaspoon paprika
   • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
3. Cooking Spray:
   • Non-stick olive oil or avocado oil spray

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls (3)
• Fork or whisk
• Tongs
• Baking sheet or tray (for resting the coated pickles)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pickles

1. Drain the dill pickle slices and pat them dry using paper towels. This step is essential to help the coating stick and prevent sogginess.
2. Arrange the pickle slices on a plate and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Station

1. In the first bowl, add all-purpose flour.
2. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
3. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Coat the Pickles

1. Using tongs, dip each pickle slice into the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess.
2. Next, dip the floured pickle slice into the beaten egg mixture, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
3. Finally, coat the pickle slice with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
4. Place the coated pickles on a tray or baking sheet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the coating set.

Step 4: Air Fry the Pickles

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the coated pickle slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. Lightly spray the tops of the pickles with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish.
5. Air fry the pickles for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pickles are done when the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the fried pickles from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or honey mustard.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

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Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Pickles in the Air Fryer

1. Don’t Skip Drying the Pickles: Excess moisture can cause the coating to slide off or become soggy.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko creates a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking in a single layer ensures every pickle slice gets crispy.
5. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper or paprika to suit your preferred heat level.

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Why Choose the Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we enjoy fried foods. Unlike traditional deep frying, the air fryer uses hot air circulation to achieve the same crispy texture with minimal oil. This makes the Southern Fried Pickles Recipe Air Fryer not only healthier but also quicker and cleaner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy all the flavors of the South without compromising on your health goals.

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Variations to Try

1. Pickle Chips vs. Spears: Experiment with different pickle shapes for variety. Spears are great for dipping, while chips are perfect for snacking.
2. Cheesy Upgrade: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
4. Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch instead of eggs.

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Dipping Sauce Pairings

Pair your Southern fried pickles with one or more of these dipping sauces:

• Classic ranch dressing
• Spicy sriracha mayo
• Garlic aioli
• Chipotle sauce
• Honey mustard

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Conclusion

This Southern Fried Pickles Recipe Air Fryer delivers all the flavors and textures of the classic Southern appetizer in a healthier, more convenient way. With just a few ingredients and a trusty air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, tangy fried pickles without the guilt or mess of deep frying. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a snack, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

So fire up your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this easy, delicious treat!