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Southern cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and comforting dishes, with fried pickles standing out as a beloved crowd-pleaser. These crispy bites encapsulate the essence of Southern cooking, offering a tangy crunch that's irresistible. Traditionally deep-fried, this air fryer version provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Air Fryer Southern Fried Pickles

Discover the joy of Crispy Air Fryer Southern Fried Pickles, the perfect appetizer for any gathering. These crunchy bites feature a tangy flavor and a delightful texture, all with less oil for guilt-free indulgence. Ready in just 30 minutes, theyre an ideal choice for easy weeknight dinners or game nights. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an added twist. Try this recipe tonight and save it for your next gathering!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dill pickle slices (approximately 16-20 slices)

½ cup buttermilk

1 large egg

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Cooking spray for greasing the air fryer

Instructions
 

Prep the Pickles: Begin by draining the dill pickle slices and laying them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove any excess moisture; this is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture when frying.

    Make the Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until you achieve a smooth and homogenous mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Coat the Pickles: Take each pickle slice and first dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Next, dredge the slice in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring that it is fully coated. For extra crunch and flavor, return the coated pickle slice to the buttermilk mixture before dredging it again in the flour mixture. Finally, roll the slice in Panko breadcrumbs for that signature crispy outer layer. Repeat this process for all the pickle slices.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps in achieving a uniform and crispy finish. Before adding the pickles, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

          Air Fry the Pickles: Arrange the coated pickle slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. To ensure even cooking, it’s recommended to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the pickles with cooking spray to enhance their crispiness during cooking.

            Cooking: Air fry the pickles at 390°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep a close watch to ensure they reach a perfect golden brown and crispy texture without over-browning.

              Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the fried pickles from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a zesty remoulade for a delightful crunch!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  - Prep Time: 15 minutes

                    - Total Time: 30 minutes

                      - Servings: 4