Air Fryer Dill Pickles – Fries

Crispy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned Air Fryer Dill Pickles – Fries are a game changer when it comes to quick snacks or appetizers. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and are guaranteed to impress. You can create a delicious treat lighter than traditional deep-fried options with just a handful of ingredients.

Air fryer dill pickle fries are more than just a snack—they’re a great addition to any meal or gathering. You can serve them at parties, as a side dish, or even for game-day munchies. With tangy pickles, a crispy coating, and tasty seasonings, they’re hard to resist.

Healthier Cooking Option

• Air fryers use circulating hot air to create a crispy exterior without excessive oil.

• Reduces the calories while keeping the rich texture intact.

• Ideal for those looking for a lighter snack option without giving up on taste.

Convenience and Speed

• Faster cooking time compared to oven-baking or deep-frying.

• Preheating is not necessary for most air fryer models.

• Minimal mess, so the cleanup is a breeze compared to traditional frying methods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Dill pickles – Choose whole pickles or pickle spears for the best texture.

• Plain flour – It is also called all-purpose flour. It helps the batter stick to the pickles.

• Breadcrumbs – I prefer panko breadcrumbs as they are made from white bread without the crust and have a larger grain than regular bread crumbs. Their texture is light and airy and they work best for an extra-crispy coating. However, you can use any breadcrumbs you have in hand.

• Eggs – They act as the glue for the breading.

• Seasonings – Paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to keep it simple but you can spice it up with your favorite seasonings.

How to Make Air Fryer Dill Pickles – Fries

Making Air Fryer Dill Pickles – Fries is a straightforward process. To achieve the best results, you need to follow a few simple steps:

Start by draining and patting the pickles dry with paper towels. This step is necessary to help the breading stick. Cut whole dill pickles into spears or thick slices, depending on your preference.

Prepare your workstation: Season the flour with half of the salt and pepper in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with mustard, then season them with the remaining salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Place this bowl next to the flour dish. In another shallow dish, set the breadcrumbs and position them beside the egg mixture.

Coat each pickle spear first in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mix. Make sure they are coated evenly for the best results.

Set your air fryer to 383℉ – 195℃. Lightly oil the pickle fries using a brush or spray them with cooking spray. 

Arrange the breaded pickle fries in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation.

Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping. Check for a golden-brown crust. If needed, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Remove the pickle fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy aioli.

Expert Tips From the Chef

• Choose crisp, firm pickles to ensure they hold up during cooking. Opt for crisp, firm pickles to ensure they hold up during cooking.

• Press the breadcrumbs onto the pickles gently for a more secure coating. Double-dip if you prefer a thicker crust: flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then repeat.

• During the breading process, you may need to pause to wash your hands once or twice.

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Shake the basket gently halfway through cooking to ensure all sides crisp evenly.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Pair your dill pickle fries with these flavorful sauces for an extra kick:

• Classic Ranch: A cool and creamy option that balances the tanginess of the pickles.

• Spicy Aioli: Mix mayo, garlic, and a dash of hot sauce for a bold flavor.

• Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, this pairs wonderfully with the crispy exterior.

• BBQ Sauce: A smoky, rich complement to the tangy pickles.

Recipe FAQs