Let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Dry Pickles

Lay down a couple of sheets of paper towels. Arrange the pickle slices on the paper towels in a single layer. Place more paper towels on top of the pickles and press gently to absorb excess moisture. Let them dry for a few minutes. This step is important for achieving a crispy coating.

Step 2: Prepare Egg Wash

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, flour, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare Breadcrumbs

In another shallow dish, add the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread Pickles

Working one at a time, dip a pickle slice in the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.

Then, dredge the pickle slice in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Transfer the breaded pickle to a baking sheet (optional, but helps with organization). Repeat with the remaining pickles.

Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Step 6: Air Fry Pickles

Add the breaded pickles to the air fryer basket in a single layer, with some space between each pickle. Don’t overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.

Spray the pickles with oil (this helps them to brown and crisp up).

Air fry for 5-7 minutes.

Flip the pickles, spray with more oil, and air fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Make Dip

While the pickles are air frying, make the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, minced onions, minced garlic, and dried dill (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the Air Fryer Fried Pickles from the air fryer and serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Enjoy this crispy, tangy, and flavorful snack or appetizer!