Description
Crispy air fryer pickles are a deliciously crunchy, sweet, and salty snack that combines the health benefits of air frying with a flavorful breading. This easy recipe uses a combination of whole wheat and panko breadcrumbs with spices to create the perfect crispy coating, making it an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pickles
- 2 cups dill pickle chips
Breading
- ¼ cup white whole wheat flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- ⅓ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt plus additional for serving
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Optional Dip
- Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip (for serving)
Instructions
- Dry the Pickles: Spread the dill pickle chips out onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and pat them as dry as possible to ensure the breading adheres properly.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Place the white whole wheat flour in a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water until fully combined. In a third shallow bowl, mix the whole wheat breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt. Line these bowls in order for easy dredging.
- Coat the Pickles: Working in small batches, dredge each pickle chip first in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the egg wash, then coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Place each coated pickle on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Generously spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Air Fry the Pickles: Arrange the coated pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. Spray the tops lightly with nonstick spray. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, until the pickles are dark golden brown and crispy. Flipping is not necessary unless preferred for evenness.
- Serve: Remove the pickles from the air fryer and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt while hot. Serve immediately with optional Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip for dipping.
Notes
- Patting the pickles dry is crucial to help the breading adhere and prevent sogginess.
- Use nonstick spray liberally to ensure the pickles crisp well in the air fryer and don’t stick to the basket.
- If you prefer extra crunch, you can double coat the pickles by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step before air frying.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference or omit if sensitive to heat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispness.
