Pickle Chips are one of those snacks that are hard to resist. Whether you’re a fan of salty, tangy snacks or you’re just in the mood for something crunchy, these crispy pickle chips are a game-changer. Made from thin slices of dill pickles, coated in a crispy breading (or cheese), and baked or fried to perfection, they bring all the flavors you love about pickles into a fun and shareable form. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, healthy comfort food, or quick family meals, these pickle chips are not only super simple to make but also completely customizable.
The best part? You can make them healthier by baking instead of frying, or load them up with extra seasonings for a unique twist. Whether you’re serving them at your next BBQ, game night, or just looking for a fun snack, these Pickle Chips are bound to steal the show. Ready to learn how to make this mouthwatering, crispy treat? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Pickle Chips is how easy they are to prepare. With minimal ingredients and just a little bit of prep, you can have these crispy bites ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re baking them for a lighter snack or frying them for that extra crisp, Pickle Chips are the kind of food that everyone loves. They’re the ultimate budget-friendly recipe that tastes indulgent but doesn’t break the bank.
Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, add extra ingredients like ranch or spicy mayo, or even swap out the pickles for a sweeter variety like bread-and-butter pickles. Pickle Chips are also perfect for high-protein meals, especially if you’re craving something a little different than the usual chips or fries. Plus, they’re great for making ahead or for snacking throughout the day.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
What sets this Pickle Chips recipe apart is the balance of flavor and texture. The crispy, seasoned coating creates a satisfying crunch, while the tangy pickles inside offer a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the outer crispiness. There’s something about the way the tangy pickles contrast with the crunchy outside that makes each bite irresistible.
And the best part? These chips are super customizable. You can use dill pickles for that tangy kick or swap in bread-and-butter pickles if you prefer a sweeter taste. Want to spice things up? Add a bit of cayenne or chili powder to the coating for a nice heat. You can also make these gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour, so they work with a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re baking, frying, or air-frying, the result will always be the same: delicious, crispy pickle chips that are perfect for dipping in ranch, spicy aioli, or your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
- Dill pickle slices
- Shredded Parmesan cheese or bread crumbs (depending on method)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, ranch seasoning, flour, eggs (for breaded version)
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Making Pickle Chips is so simple, and you’ll be amazed at how little time it takes to make these crispy, tangy snacks. Here’s how to make them:
- Preheat the Oven or Heat Oil: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking, or heat oil in a frying pan if you prefer to fry your pickle chips. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat Pickles Dry: This step is crucial. Use paper towels to pat the pickle slices dry. Removing excess moisture helps the coating adhere better and ensures your chips stay crispy. Trust me—this is one of the most important steps to avoid soggy pickle chips!
- Prepare the Coating: If you’re baking with Parmesan cheese, simply place mounds of shredded Parmesan on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then place the pickle slices on top, adding more Parmesan on top of the pickles. If you’re making breaded Pickle Chips, dip each pickle slice in flour, then dip it in a beaten egg, followed by seasoned breadcrumbs or panko.
- Bake or Fry: If you’re baking, place the coated pickle slices on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp. If you’re frying, heat oil in a pan and fry the pickle slices for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also air fry the pickle chips at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through for that perfect crunch.
- Let Cool Slightly: Once your pickle chips are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven or frying pan and let them cool slightly. This helps the coating firm up even more, ensuring the chips are extra crunchy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Pickle Chips warm with pizza sauce, ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce. These crispy bites are perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!
Tips for Best Results
- Dry the Pickles Well: This is key to achieving that crispy texture. Make sure to dry the pickle slices thoroughly with paper towels before coating them.
- Season Well: Don’t be afraid to season generously! Adding garlic powder, paprika, or even ranch seasoning can really elevate the flavor of your Pickle Chips.
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: If you want an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs. They add a delightful crunch that takes your pickle chips to the next level.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re frying, make sure to leave space between each pickle slice. Overcrowding will lead to soggy chips, and we want that crispy crunch!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
The great thing about Pickle Chips is that you can get as creative as you want with the ingredients. Here are a few variations to make this snack even more your own:
- Use Bread-and-Butter Pickles: If you’re a fan of a sweeter flavor, swap out the dill pickles for bread-and-butter pickles. The sweet and savory combination is a delightful twist.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier version, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumbs for an added kick. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like Sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli.
- Make Them Keto-Friendly: If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can easily make these Pickle Chips keto-friendly by using almond flour and Parmesan instead of breadcrumbs. It’s the perfect way to enjoy these crispy snacks while staying on track with your keto meal plan.
- Add Different Cheeses: Try mixing in different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy variation. The more cheese, the better!
Serving Suggestions
Pickle Chips make the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Here are some fun ideas for serving them:
- With Burgers: These crunchy pickle chips are the perfect addition to your next burger. Whether you’re making a full English breakfast or serving up a simple burger and fries, these pickle chips add the perfect zesty crunch.
- As a Snack: Serve them on their own for a delicious snack that pairs perfectly with your favorite dip. Ranch, spicy aioli, and blue cheese are all excellent choices.
- In Sliders: Want to make your meal even more exciting? Serve these pickle chips in sliders, adding a crispy, tangy element to your sandwiches or mini burgers.
- For Game Day: These pickle chips are a must-have at game night or any casual gathering. They’re easy to make in large batches and are always a hit with friends and family.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- Drinks: These pickle chips pair perfectly with a light, refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade. For an adult option, a cold beer or crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the tangy crunch of the chips.
- Sides: Serve these chips with other appetizers like easy high-protein meals, mozzarella sticks, or mini sliders. They also work wonderfully as a side to your favorite BBQ dishes.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat them, place them in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes, or in an air fryer for about 5 minutes, to get them crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the texture.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
While Pickle Chips are best served fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking or frying. You can also freeze the baked or fried chips for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Pickles: The number one mistake you can make when making Pickle Chips is not drying the pickles properly. If the pickles are too wet, the coating won’t stick and the chips won’t crisp up.
- Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re frying your chips, make sure there’s enough space between each pickle slice. Overcrowding can lead to soggy chips, and no one wants that.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! The more flavorful your coating, the better your Pickle Chips will taste. Add garlic powder, paprika, or even some ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are Pickle Chips the same as fried pickles?
Yes, Pickle Chips are often referred to as fried pickles when deep-fried, but they can also be baked for a lighter option. - Can I make Pickle Chips in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through to get perfectly crispy chips. - Do I need to bread the pickles?
Not necessarily. You can use just Parmesan cheese for a crispy coating when baked, but if you prefer a breaded version, use flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. - What type of pickles work best?
Dill pickles are ideal for their tangy flavor, but sweet or spicy pickles can also work depending on your preference. - Can I make Pickle Chips ahead of time?
You can prep the pickles and store them in the fridge before cooking. They’re best fresh, but you can always bake or fry them just before serving.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- A baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Paper towels for drying the pickles
- A large bowl for the breading
- A whisk for the egg mixture
- A frying pan or oven for baking
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Pickle Chips
Ingredients
- 1 jar dill pickle slices
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese or bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ranch seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup flour (for breaded version)
- 2 eggs beaten (for breaded version)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a frying pan if frying.
- Pat pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
- If baking with cheese, place Parmesan mounds on parchment paper, top with pickle slices, and sprinkle more cheese on top.
- If breading, dip pickles in flour, then egg, then seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp, or fry for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
