Copycat KFC Fried Pickles Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly fried pickle. Crunchy on the outside, juicy and tangy inside, it’s the kind of snack that disappears faster than you can say “pass the ranch.” If you’ve been craving those iconic KFC Fried Pickles but can’t find them in stores anymore, don’t worry. We’ve recreated the magic at home, and the results are downright crave-worthy.

Our copycat KFC fried pickles are soaked in buttermilk, coated in seasoned flour, and fried until golden. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce (we like ranch or comeback sauce), and they’ll transport you straight to fast-food heaven. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want a salty snack on a Friday night, this recipe hits all the right notes.

How to Make Copycat KFC Fried Pickles

Making these pickles at home takes just over 30 minutes from start to finish, and most of that is waiting for the buttermilk to work its magic. The key to that irresistible KFC-style crunch is a double dredge in a seasoned flour mix and a quick fry in hot oil.

Ingredients, Tools, Instructions and Tips

Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dill pickle chips (thick-cut, drained and patted dry)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried dill (optional, for extra kick)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels
• Heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer
• Cooling rack
• Thermometer (optional, but helpful)
• Sheet tray or plate lined with parchment

Instructions:

1. Soak the pickles. In a bowl, pour the buttermilk over the pickle chips. Let them soak for 15–20 minutes. This step adds tang and helps the coating stick.
2. Mix the dredge. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried dill.
3. Heat the oil. In a large pan, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge the pickles. Remove pickles from the buttermilk, shake off excess liquid, and dredge in the flour mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks. Repeat once more for a thicker crust.
5. Fry in batches. Carefully place pickles into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Drain and cool. Transfer to a paper towel-lined rack to drain. Let cool for 2 minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Make sure pickles are well dried before coating to avoid soggy batter.
• Use a thermometer to keep the oil temp steady between 340°F and 360°F.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle the fried pickles with a pinch of salt and extra dill right after frying.

What to Serve with the Dish

These copycat KFC fried pickles are the perfect party starter or burger sidekick. Serve them with:

• A creamy ranch or spicy comeback sauce
• Fried chicken sliders or tenders
• Burgers, especially those with melted cheese and brioche buns
• Fries and a cold glass of sweet tea
• A platter of other Southern snacks like hush puppies or coleslaw

They’re also excellent as a snack on their own during movie night or game day.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Pickle Chips
   Original Ingredient: Dill pickle chips
   Substitutes:

• Bread and Butter Pickles: Sweeter, but still delicious when fried.
• Homemade Pickles: Thick-sliced cucumbers brined in vinegar, salt, and dill overnight.
• Spicy Pickles: Add heat to your snack by using hot pickle chips.

2. Buttermilk
   Original Ingredient: Buttermilk
   Substitutes:

• Milk + Vinegar: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice, let sit for 10 minutes.
• Yogurt + Water: Use ½ cup plain yogurt thinned with ½ cup water.

3. All-Purpose Flour
   Original Ingredient: All-purpose flour
   Substitutes:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free blend for similar results.
• Chickpea Flour: Adds a slightly nutty taste and is naturally gluten-free.

4. Cornmeal
   Original Ingredient: Cornmeal
   Substitutes:

• Breadcrumbs: For more of a classic fried coating.
• Crushed cornflakes: For extra crunch.

5. Seasoning Mix
   Original Ingredients: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper
   Substitutes:

• Cajun Seasoning: For a Southern-style twist.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds an herby punch.

6. Oil for Frying
   Original Ingredient: Vegetable oil
   Substitutes:

• Canola Oil: Neutral flavor and high smoke point.
• Peanut Oil: Great for frying with a slightly nutty aroma.