Crispy and tangy, Air Fryer Spicy Dill Pickle Chips are a fun snack! With just a sprinkle of spice, these pickles have all the crunch you crave without deep frying!
They make the perfect munchie during movie night or as a zesty appetizer. I love whipping these up because they’re easy, delicious, and they satisfy that salty craving like no other! 🌶️🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickle Slices: Use your favorite dill pickles. I prefer the thicker crinkle-cut ones for extra crunch, but any sliced pickles work.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps the batter stick. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
Cornmeal vs Panko: Both give great crunch! I use cornmeal for a traditional taste, but panko breadcrumbs are fantastic for an extra crispy texture.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds spice! You can adjust or replace it with paprika for a milder flavor. For a kick, try using some chili powder.
Egg and Milk: This mixture helps the coating stick. Plant-based milk and flaxseed or chickpea flour can replace egg for a vegan version!
How Do I Get My Pickle Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy pickle chips is all in the breading process! Start by patting the pickles dry to remove moisture. This will help the flour and breading stick effectively.
- Set up your breading station properly—flour, egg wash, and cornmeal mix.
- After coating, allow the slices to sit for a few minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Give each slice enough space to cook evenly and get crispy.
- A light spray of cooking oil on top before frying enhances crispiness.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly crunchy pickle chips every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Spicy Dill Pickle Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickle Chips:
- 20 dill pickle slices (about 1/2 inch thick, crinkle cut if possible)
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Others:
- Cooking spray or oil mist
- Fresh dill, for garnish (optional)
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious snack ready in around 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick bite or movie night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickle Slices:
Start by patting the pickle slices dry with paper towels. This step is important because it removes excess moisture, helping the breading stick better and ensuring your chips turn out crispy!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready. Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. The third bowl will hold the seasoned cornmeal or panko mixture—combine the cornmeal (or panko) with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Pickles:
Take each pickle slice and dip it into the flour first, ensuring both sides are coated while shaking off any excess. Next, dip the slice into the egg wash, again making sure both sides are covered. Lastly, press each pickle slice into the seasoned cornmeal mixture, coating both sides evenly, then set aside on a plate.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes so it’s nice and hot for crispy cooking!
5. Air Fry the Pickle Chips:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated pickle slices in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them (you can do this in batches if needed). Lightly spray the tops of the pickle chips with cooking spray for extra crunch!
6. Time to Air Fry:
Air fry the pickle chips for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on both sides!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once done, remove the pickle chips from the air fryer and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Garnish with fresh dill if desired and serve immediately with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your crunchy, tangy, and spicy air fryer dill pickle chips! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Whole Pickles Instead of Slices?
While the recipe is designed for sliced pickles, you can use whole pickles. Just slice them after breading before air frying. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the slices cook through properly!
What Can I Substitute for Cornmeal?
Panko breadcrumbs work great as a substitute for cornmeal if you’re looking for extra crunch. Alternatively, you can use crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer.
How Do I Store Leftover Pickle Chips?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for that fresh crunch!
Can I Make Them Less Spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper to adjust the spice level to your liking. You can also substitute it with a milder paprika for flavor without the heat.
