Crispy Fried Pickle Chips
If you haven’t yet experienced the joy of crispy fried pickle chips, consider this your official invitation.
Each bite delivers an irresistible contrast: a crunchy, golden coating wrapped around a tangy, juicy pickle slice.
This Southern comfort classic is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a game-day party, backyard cookout,
or a cozy movie night at home.
What makes fried pickles so special is their balance of flavors and textures. The sharp acidity of dill pickles cuts through the
rich, seasoned crust, while a cool dipping sauce ties everything together. Best of all, this recipe is easy to adapt—deep-fry for
maximum crunch or try an air-fryer version for a lighter twist.
🧂 Ingredients
For the Fried Pickle Chips
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Kosher dill pickles, sliced thin | 3 cups (under ¼-inch thick) |
Optional Dipping Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | 2 tablespoons |
| BBQ sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Ketchup | 1 teaspoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1 teaspoon |
| Hot sauce (optional) | A dash |
| Black pepper | A pinch |
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven.
Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 375°F (190°C).
Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to achieving crisp, non-greasy pickle chips.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
In a second bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Pickles
Pat the pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Working in small batches:
- Dredge each pickle slice in the seasoned flour.
- Dip into the buttermilk and egg mixture.
- Return to the flour for a second coating to maximize crunch.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Carefully lower the coated pickle slices into the hot oil. Fry for about
1½–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and allow the oil to return to temperature before frying the next batch.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix all dipping sauce ingredients until smooth.
Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips for Perfect Fried Pickles
- Slice pickles evenly for consistent frying.
- Double-dipping in flour creates an extra-crispy crust.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Try air-frying at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve crispy fried pickle chips hot with ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or the homemade dipping sauce above.
They pair perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or as a stand-alone appetizer that disappears fast.
Enjoy every crunchy, tangy bite!