Pin Recipe My brother-in-law brought these to a summer cookout a few years back, and I honestly stood by the serving plate the entire time. They disappeared in minutes, and I have been obsessed with recreating that perfect crunch ever since.
Last game night, I made a double batch thinking we would have leftovers, but everyone kept hovering near the kitchen counter. My friend Sarah finally asked if I could just set the bowl down instead of walking around with it.
Ingredients
- 16 dill pickle chips: Pat them completely dry or the breading will slide right off
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the base layer that helps everything stick
- 2 large eggs + 1 tablespoon milk: Whisked together until smooth for the perfect adhesive
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These airy flakes deliver superior crunch compared to regular crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder + 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: A smoky savory punch that balances the tang
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional but that subtle heat keeps people coming back for more
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt + 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the pickle flavor shine
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce: Cool creamy against the hot tangy crunch is non-negotiable
Instructions
- Get your station ready:
- Preheat that air fryer to 400°F and set up three shallow bowls in assembly line fashion
- Set up your breading station:
- First bowl gets the flour, second bowl holds the whisked eggs and milk, third bowl mixes the panko with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper
- Prep those pickles:
- Press each pickle chip between paper towels until they are dry to the touch
- Start the coating process:
- Dredge each slice in flour first, shake off the excess, then dip into the egg wash
- Add the crunch:
- Press the pickle into the panko mixture firmly so it really adheres
- Arrange for success:
- Lay them in a single layer in your air fryer basket and give them a quick spray of cooking oil
- Get crispy:
- Air fry for 6 minutes, flip each one carefully, spray again, and cook another 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown
- Serve them up:
- Plate them immediately while they are still hot and audibly crunchy
Pin Recipe My niece usually claims she hates pickles, but when she smelled these cooking she wandered in and ate three before I could stop her. Now she requests them every time she visits.
Getting That Extra Crunch
The double breading technique is worth the extra effort if you want restaurant-level texture. Simply repeat the egg and panko steps for a thicker, more substantial coating that stays crispy longer.
Making Them Your Own
I have tried crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free version and they work beautifully. A handful of grated Parmesan in the breadcrumb mix adds a salty umami layer that surprises people.
Serving Strategy
These lose their magic fast, so timing matters. Have your dipping sauce ready and plates nearby before that timer goes off.
- Keep them warm in a 200°F oven if you are making multiple batches
- Set out a few different dipping sauces to spark conversation
- Make at least double what you think you will need
Pin Recipe Whether it is game day or just a Tuesday craving, these never fail to make people smile. Plus, the air fryer means zero splatter cleanup.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the coating sticks well to the pickles?
Pat the pickle slices dry to remove excess moisture before dredging in flour, egg wash, and seasoned panko to ensure an even and crispy coating.
- → Can I make the coating gluten-free?
Yes, substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the coating crispy without gluten.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these pickles?
Classic ranch is a popular choice, but spicy aioli, blue cheese dip, or even mustard-based sauces complement the tangy and crispy flavors nicely.
- → Is double breading necessary for extra crunch?
Double breading, by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps, adds extra crunch and a thicker coating but is optional based on your texture preference.
- → How do I reheat leftover pickles without losing crispiness?
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for a few minutes at 400°F (200°C) to restore their crispy texture without sogginess.