Crispy, tangy, and downright addictive—these Air Fryer Pickle Fries are the ultimate appetizer! Coated in a crunchy parmesan-panko crust and air-fried to golden perfection, they’re a lighter take on classic fried pickles without sacrificing flavor.

Air Fryer Pickles on a white plate next to a little bowl of ranch dip.

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    Before you get started / Kelley’s tips

    • Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer. Cook the pickle fries in batches so the hot air can circulate properly, and all of the fries will get crispy!
    • Spray the Fries with Oil. A light spritz of nonstick cooking spray helps the pickle fries get nice and crispy.
    • Serve them Immediately. Pickle fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh for maximum crunchiness!

    Ingredients

    • Pickles – The star of the show! Their tangy, briny flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy coating. Use sturdy, crunchy pickles for the best texture.
    • All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a base layer for the breading to stick to.
    • Buttermilk – Adds a touch of tang and moisture, helping the breadcrumbs adhere while keeping the inside tender.
    • Hot Sauce – A couple of dashes add a mild kick.
    • Panko Breadcrumbs – These light, flaky Japanese breadcrumbs create an extra crispy texture.
    • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor and helps the coating brown.
    • Seasonings – I use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and Italian seasoning in the breading for lots of flavor.

    How to Make Air Fryer Pickle Fries

    1. Pat dry the pickles on both sides with paper towels. (This will ensure the breading will stick onto the pickles and they will stay crispy)
    Pickle spears laid out on a paper towel.
    1. Add flour to a shallow bowl. Add buttermilk and a couple dashes of hot sauce to a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl combine Panko Breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese and herbs, set aside.
    2. Start by dipping the pickles in the flour, then buttermilk then lastly into the breadcrumbs. Transfer to a sheet tray lined with parchment paper or a large plate.
    Pickle spears in a bowl with panko breadcrumbs.
    1. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees. Spray the insert of the air fryer with nonstick cooking spray. Add a single layer of pickles to the insert (you will probably have to cook in batches) Spray the tops of the pickles with nonstick cooking spray.
    2. Cook for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
    Panko breaded pickle spears in an air fryer insert.
    1. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce! We love to dip these in ranch or blue cheese dressing!
    Air Fryer Pickles on a plate next to a bowl of ranch dip.

    If you love this recipe, you’ll also love my Air Fryer Pickles!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I use pickle chips instead of spears?

    Yes! Pickle chips work great, but they may cook a little faster since they’re smaller. Check them around the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

    Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

    Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs will still work—the fries will just be slightly less crunchy.

    Can I bake these instead of air frying them?

    Yes! Bake them at 425°F on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

    How do I store and reheat leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.

    Hand dipping an air fryer pickle into a bowl of ranch dip.

    Looking for more air fryer appetizers? Give these recipes a try!

    Recipe

    Air Fryer Pickle Fries

    Crispy, tangy, and downright addictive—these Air Fryer Pickle Fries are the ultimate appetizer! Coated in a crunchy parmesan-panko crust and air-fried to golden perfection, they’re a lighter take on classic fried pickles without sacrificing flavor. A little kick from hot sauce and a blend of savory spices make every bite irresistible. Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for the ultimate dipping experience!
    Author: Kelley Simmons
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Serves 4 servings
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    Email this Recipe

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      Ingredients 

      Instructions

      • Pat dry the pickles on both sides with paper towels. (This will ensure the breading will stick onto the pickles and they will stay crispy)
      • Add flour to a shallow bowl. Add buttermilk and a couple dashes of hot sauce to a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl combine Panko Breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese and herbs, set aside.
        Start by dipping the pickles in the flour, then buttermilk then lastly into the breadcrumbs. Transfer to a sheet tray lined with parchment paper or a large plate.
      • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees. Spray the insert of the air fryer with nonstick cooking spray. Add a single layer of pickles to the insert (you will probably have to cook in batches) Spray the tops of the pickles with nonstick cooking spray.
        Cook for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
      • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce! We love to dip these in ranch or blue cheese dressing!

      Nutrition Information

      Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 6gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 995mgPotassium: 188mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 394IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 173mgIron: 1mg

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