Crispy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible—these air fryer fried pickles are a simple appetizer you’ll want to make again and again. The air fryer makes them healthier than traditional fried pickles without sacrificing the deliciously crispy coating. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an easy party snack or a fun family treat.

- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Healthier than traditional frying with the same satisfying crunch.
- Versatile; pairs well with various dipping sauces for different flavor profiles.
- Perfect for an appetizer or a snack anytime you crave something savory and crunchy.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) jar dill pickle coins, drained: The pickles provide the classic tangy crunch. Be sure to drain them well to avoid soggy coating.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binding agent to help the panko stick to the pickles.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These create an extra crispy exterior. Regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko is unavailable, but they won’t be as crunchy.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling): Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely in the air fryer. A light spray of cooking oil can also be used.
- Remoulade sauce (for dipping): Adds a creamy, tangy complement to the crispy pickles. Try chipotle sauce or chipotle ranch dressing for a spicy kick.
How to Make It
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 370°F. Preheating is key for achieving that golden, crunchy coating as soon as the pickles hit the heat. A hot air fryer ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pickles
Drain the pickles thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial to prevent the breading from getting soggy and helps the breadcrumbs adhere better.
Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations
Whisk the egg in a small bowl and place the panko breadcrumbs in a medium bowl. Begin by dipping each pickle coin in the egg, then into the panko to coat evenly. Arrange them on a plate as you work for easy transition to cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Pickles
Drizzle the breaded pickles with a bit of olive oil before placing them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s space around each pickle. This prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Fry for 11 to 14 minutes, or until they’re crisp and golden brown. Adjust time according to your air fryer model.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once crisp, serve the pickles immediately with remoulade sauce or your choice of dip. The freshness is part of what makes them so delectable, so don’t wait too long before digging in!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of pickles?
Yes! While dill pickle coins are traditional, you could experiment with different types such as spicy pickles or sweet bread and butter pickles for a twist on flavor.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the pickles in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They might not be as crispy as air fried, but they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 370°F for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.