These Air Fryer Spicy Dill Pickle Chips are a crunchy and zesty treat! They’re perfect for snacking, with a delightful kick that pickle lovers will enjoy.
I love how easy they are to make. Just slice, season, and air fry! They’re great as a snack or a fun side dish. Plus, they’re way less messy than frying in oil! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Use your favorite dill pickles for the best flavor. Crinkle-cut pickles add a fun texture but regular slices work just as well. If you prefer less heat, consider using bread and butter pickles for a sweet twist.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chips a nice crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but your chips may not be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this based on your spice tolerance. You can omit it for no heat, or substitute with crushed red pepper flakes for a different kind of spice. Or, use your favorite hot sauce in the egg mixture for added flavor!
Dill: Dried dill is great for ease, but fresh dill offers a vibrant flavor. If you’re a dill lover, you can double the amount for a stronger taste.
How Do I Get My Pickle Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy pickle chips is prepping properly! Start by making sure your pickles are well-drained and dried. Excess moisture can make them soggy rather than crunchy.
- Coat the pickle slices thoroughly in the flour, egg, and then panko. Don’t rush this step!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Giving the slices space allows the air to circulate for evenly crispy chips.
- A light spray of oil on top will help achieve that golden brown finish.
Following these tips will lead to the perfect crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful pickle chips every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Spicy Dill Pickle Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickle Chips:
- 20-25 dill pickle slices (about 2 medium pickles), crinkle-cut if possible
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
For the Breadcrumb Coating:
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon dried dill or 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped
Extras:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray for the air fryer
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need around 25-30 minutes to make crispy, spicy pickle chips that are perfect for snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickle Slices:
Begin by draining the dill pickles thoroughly. Use paper towels to pat them dry, ensuring any excess moisture is removed. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better to the slices.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations:
In one bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. In a second bowl, crack and beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the dried or chopped fresh dill.
3. Coat the Pickles:
Take each pickle slice and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the slice into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, press the pickle slice gently into the panko breadcrumb mixture to ensure it’s well coated.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the pickle chips begin cooking immediately for a better crunch.
5. Arrange and Air Fry:
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the coated pickle slices in a single layer inside the basket, making sure not to overlap them. For additional crunch, spray a light mist of cooking spray on top of the pickle slices as well.
6. Cook:
Air fry the pickle chips at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Be sure to flip the chips halfway through the cooking time for even browning. They’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pickle chips have cooked to a perfect crisp, remove them from the air fryer. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or spicy mayo. Enjoy this tangy, crunchy treat!
These Air Fryer Spicy Dill Pickle Chips are sure to become a favorite snack—enjoy every bite! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Pickles Instead of Slices?
Yes, you can! If you prefer, you can cut whole pickles into your desired thickness. Just keep in mind that thicker slices may require a slight adjustment in cooking time to ensure they cook through and get crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may not be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes also work well to achieve a great crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pickle chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best when eaten fresh, but if they lose some crispiness, you can pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive them!
Can I Make These Pickles Less Spicy?
Absolutely! To reduce heat, simply adjust the amount of cayenne pepper used or omit it altogether. You can also use a milder paprika instead of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile without the heat.
