Air Fryer Fried Pickles (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the pickles

01 - 1 cup sliced pickles, patted dry
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Tabasco works great)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
08 - Cooking spray or oil for spritzing

→ For the dip

09 - 1/4 cup sour cream
10 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 cup finely minced onions
14 - 1 garlic clove, minced
15 - 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional but recommended)

# Instructions:

01 - Lay down a couple sheets of paper towels. Arrange the pickle slices on the paper towels in a single layer, then place more paper towels on top. Press gently and let them dry for about 5 minutes.
02 - In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, flour, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth. In another shallow dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
03 - Working with one pickle slice at a time, dip it in the egg wash mixture, making sure it's fully coated. Then transfer to the breadcrumbs and press gently to ensure the crumbs stick to all sides. Place the breaded pickle on a clean baking sheet.
04 - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 3 minutes.
05 - Place the breaded pickles in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not touching each other. You may need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the pickles with oil, then air fry for 5-7 minutes.
06 - Carefully flip each pickle slice, spray with a bit more oil, and continue air frying for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
07 - While the pickles are cooking, prepare the dip by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, minced onions, minced garlic, and dried dill in a small bowl. Stir well until thoroughly mixed.
08 - Transfer the hot fried pickles to a serving plate and serve right away with the dip on the side. They're best enjoyed while still warm and crispy!

# Notes:

01 - These air fryer fried pickles are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions but still deliver that satisfying crunch.
02 - For extra crispiness, make sure your pickles are thoroughly dried before breading.
03 - Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if necessary for the best results.