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

A mound of golden brown, crispy Fried Pickles piled high on a white plate, one showing the bright green interior.
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Learn how to make incredibly crispy, tangy fried pickles at home. This guide gives you the classic deep-fried method for pub-style perfection and an easy air fryer alternative for a lighter snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 ounce) jar dill pickle chips, drained and patted very dry
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pickles: Lay the drained pickle chips on several layers of paper towels. Place more paper towels on top and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is key for crispy fried pickles.
  2. Set up the dredging station: In one shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. In a second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Coat the pickles: Working in small batches, dredge the dry pickle chips first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press them firmly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the coated pickles on a clean baking sheet.
  4. For Deep Frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the breaded pickles into the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crunchy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
  5. For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded pickles in a single layer in the basket (work in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the pickles with cooking spray. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For the best results, ensure your pickle slices are completely dry before coating. Excess water prevents the breading from sticking properly.
  • If you want a Texas Roadhouse copycat flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano and a dash of onion powder to the flour mixture.
  • To make a simple, zesty fried pickle dipping sauce, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder.

Nutrition

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