If you’re a true pickle lover, prepare to meet your new favorite snack. These crispy fried pickle chips have the perfect balance of tangy pickle flavor, crunchy coating, and a gentle kick of spice. They’re incredibly quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for parties, game nights, or whenever a craving strikes. Serve them hot with a cool, creamy dip and watch them disappear fast.
PREP TIME
15 Min
COOK TIME
5 Min
METHOD
Deep Fry
Ingredients for Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickle Chips
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8 oz (225 g) dill pickle ovals (about 32 slices)
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1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk
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5 dashes Tabasco sauce (or other hot sauce)
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1/2 cup (60 g) self-rising flour
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1/2 cup (80 g) cornmeal
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1/2 tsp (2 g) Cajun seasoning or seasoned salt
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1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper
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1/4 tsp (1 g) garlic powder
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Oil for frying
How to Make Crispy Southern-Style Fried Pickle Chips
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Drain the pickle slices in a colander. Spread them out on a double layer of paper towels to absorb as much liquid as possible. This step is key—if the pickles are too wet, the buttermilk will not adhere properly.
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Once pickles are fairly dry, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl, then add the pickles to coat. In a shallow dish or pie plate, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge the pickles in the dry mixture, ensuring each slice is well coated.
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep-sided skillet to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop coated pickle slices into the hot oil. They should float to the top if the oil is at the right temperature. Turn occasionally to brown both sides evenly.
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When crispy and golden, remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. If desired, sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot. Serve immediately with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Conclusion
These golden, crunchy fried pickle chips are irresistible from the very first bite. With their tangy center, crisp coating, and subtle heat, they’re bound to become a go-to snack in your kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging yourself, pair them with a cool dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor contrast. Best of all, this recipe is simple to double so everyone can grab a handful without fighting over the last one.