If you’re looking to make a quick and easy snack with your air fryer, then fried pickles are the perfect treat! Using an air fryer allows you to create that satisfying crunch and tangy flavor without deep-frying, which means fewer calories and less oil. This recipe will guide you through the steps to make these addictive bites at home. And if you’re considering purchasing an air fryer, don’t worry; there are a variety of models available to fit different air fryer prices and budgets, making it easy to find the right one for your needs.

Why Make Fried Pickles in an Air Fryer?
Traditional fried pickles are typically deep-fried, which can make them heavy and loaded with oil. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, making it crispy and golden without the need for excessive oil. Air-fried pickles are lighter and healthier, and you get that signature crunch in just minutes! Whether you have a high-end model or a cheap air fryer, this recipe works for all types, giving you that same irresistible flavor with just a fraction of the oil.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Pickles
For this recipe, you’ll need only a few ingredients:
- Dill pickle chips (about 1 cup, drained)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or use regular milk if needed)
- Cooking spray (to help achieve a golden, crispy texture)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Fried Pickles
Step 1: Prepare the Coatings
1. In a small bowl, add the flour. In another bowl, pour in the buttermilk. In a third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pat the pickle chips dry with a paper towel. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better, making the pickles crispier.
Step 2: Coat the Pickles
1. Take each pickle chip and dredge it in the flour, then dip it in the buttermilk, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each chip is fully coated for maximum crispiness.
2. Set the coated pickle chips aside on a plate.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating helps the pickles cook evenly and ensures a crisp outer layer. If you’re still looking to buy one, consider that air fryer prices vary widely, from budget-friendly models to more advanced ones with extra features.
Step 4: Arrange the Pickles and Spray
1. Arrange the pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Crowding them could lead to uneven cooking.
2. Lightly spray the pickles with cooking spray. This small amount of oil will help the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy.
Step 5: Air Fry the Pickles
Cook the pickles at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, they’re ready to enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Pickles
1. Choose the Right Pickles:
Dill pickle chips are the best choice, as their tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy coating. You can also experiment with spicy pickles for a little extra kick.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer makes a big difference in cooking quality. It ensures even heating, especially for crispy recipes like this.
3. Avoid Overcrowding:
Arrange pickles in a single layer to allow for optimal air circulation, which results in a crispier texture. If you’re making a larger batch, cook in multiple rounds.
4. Experiment with Coatings:
If you want an extra crispy texture, try using panko breadcrumbs, which are known for their light and crunchy consistency.
Choosing the Best Air Fryer for Fried Pickles
If you’re new to air frying, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of affordable options out there. A cheap air fryer can deliver impressive results for simple recipes like fried pickles, and they’re often compact, making them perfect for smaller kitchens. When considering air fryer prices, think about the features you need. Entry-level models are great for basic recipes, while mid-range to high-end models may offer larger capacities, temperature control, and additional presets that make cooking even more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use any type of pickle for this recipe?
Yes! While dill pickle chips are the most common, you can experiment with different types of pickles like spicy or bread and butter pickles for varying flavors.
2. Do I need to add any oil?
Very little is needed! Just a light spray of cooking oil will help achieve that golden color. This is one of the advantages of using an air fryer—you get all the crunch without the deep frying.
3. How do I reheat leftover fried pickles?
Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes. They’ll come out just as crispy as when they were first made.