Fried Pickles Recipe
Introduction
Fried pickles are a crispy, tangy snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as a flavorful appetizer. This easy recipe combines crunchy Panko coating with zesty dill pickles for a delicious treat you can make at home.

Ingredients
- 12 dill pickle slices
- 1½ cups Panko bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Oil (for frying)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oil in a non-stick skillet to 360°F to 370°F. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Panko bread crumbs, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Step 2: In another medium bowl, whisk the flour, milk, baking powder, egg, paprika, black pepper, and dried dill until smooth. Let the batter rest for at least 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Pat the pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 4: Place about ½ cup of the Panko mixture into a small bowl for easy dipping.
- Step 5: Dip each pickle slice into the batter, then gently coat with the Panko crumbs. Arrange the coated pickles on a baking sheet and let them rest for a few minutes to help the crumbs adhere better.
- Step 6: Fry the pickles in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with salt.
- Step 7: Serve warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or mix in some chili powder with the bread crumbs.
- Try using sweet pickle slices for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as blue cheese, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.
- If you prefer baked fried pickles, spray coated pickles with cooking spray and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Storage
Store leftover fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pickle?
Yes, you can use sweet, bread-and-butter, or spicy pickles depending on your taste preference, though dill pickles are traditional for their tangy flavor.
What oil is best for frying pickles?
Use a neutral, high-smoke point oil such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying to get the crispiest results without imparting unwanted flavors.
PrintFried Pickles Recipe
Crispy, flavorful Fried Pickles made with dill pickle slices dipped in a seasoned batter and coated with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, then fried to golden perfection. A perfect appetizer or snack served with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 fried pickle slices (serves 2-3) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pickle and Coating Ingredients
- 12 dill pickle slices
- 1½ cups Panko bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for sprinkling after frying)
Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Frying
- Oil (for frying, enough to fill a skillet about 1-2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Preheat the oil: In a non-stick skillet, heat oil to 360°F to 370°F (182°C to 188°C). This temperature ensures the fried pickles become perfectly crispy and golden.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Panko bread crumbs, cayenne pepper (if using), and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
- Make the batter: In another medium bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, milk, baking powder, egg, paprika, black pepper, and dried dill until the batter is smooth. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes to allow the baking powder to activate and improve batter texture.
- Dry the pickles: Dab the dill pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the batter and breadcrumbs adhere better.
- Coat the pickles: Place about ½ cup of the prepared Panko bread crumb mixture in a small bowl for dipping. Dip each pickle slice first into the batter, then gently into the Panko crumbs to coat thoroughly. Arrange the coated slices on a baking sheet and let them rest for a few minutes; this helps the coating stick better during frying.
- Fry the pickles: Working in small batches, fry the coated pickle slices in the preheated oil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and season: Transfer fried pickles to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt to enhance flavor.
- Serve: Serve the fried pickles hot with ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature remains between 360°F and 370°F for optimal crispiness.
- Drying the pickle slices well is key to making the coating stick properly.
- Letting the coated pickles rest before frying helps maintain the crunch.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for best results.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount for heat preference or omit for a milder taste.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Keywords: fried pickles, appetizer, snack, crispy pickles, southern food, deep-fried pickles, Panko breadcrumbs, dill pickles

