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Fried Pickles Recipe

4.6 from 101 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Dry the pickles: Dab the dill pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the batter and breadcrumbs adhere better.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Drain and season: Transfer fried pickles to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt to enhance flavor.
  8. 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