Can you make deep-fried pickles in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make a version of deep-fried pickles in an air fryer using a crispy breading and a light oil spray. While they aren’t technically “deep-fried,” air fryer fried pickles mimic the crunchy texture with a fraction of the oil. You’ll get a satisfying crunch and tangy bite, minus the mess and grease of deep frying.

What cannot be fried in an air fryer?

Certain wet batters don’t hold up well in an air fryer. Foods like battered fish or liquid-heavy doughs tend to drip and cause uneven cooking. It’s best to stick with dry breaded items like air fryer fried pickles , chicken, or veggie chips. Cheese alone can also melt and create a mess unless it's breaded or frozen beforehand.

What is fried pickle batter made of?

Classic fried pickle batter includes flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs—often panko for extra crunch. Seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne are common add-ins. Some people mix in ranch seasoning or grated cheese for a flavor boost. For air fryer fried pickles , this 3-step dredge method works best: flour, egg wash, seasoned crumbs.

Are air fried pickles healthy?

Compared to deep-fried versions, air fryer fried pickles are significantly healthier. They use less oil, which reduces fat and calorie content. If you use a low-fat dip and whole ingredients, they can fit into a balanced diet—even as an occasional treat. Plus, they’re lower in cholesterol and saturated fats.

Air Fryer Fried Pickles – The Best Crispy Snack You’ll Love in 2025

Description

These golden, crispy air fryer fried pickles bring a tangy crunch without the grease of deep frying. Perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever the craving hits.

Ingredients

Scale

1 jar dill pickle chips or spears
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Pinch cayenne pepper
Grated Parmesan (optional)
Cooking spray

Instructions

Pat pickles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Set up dredging station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and Parmesan.
Coat each pickle in flour, then dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes. Spray basket with cooking spray.
Place pickles in a single layer in the basket. Spray tops lightly with oil.
Air fry for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Notes

For best results, don’t overcrowd the basket. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 375°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 140
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: air fryer, fried pickles, snack, crispy, party food