Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia or yellow onions)
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
2 teaspoons garlic powder
04 -
2 teaspoons paprika
05 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
06 -
2 large eggs
07 -
1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk plus splash of vinegar as substitute)
08 -
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
09 -
Olive oil spray or other neutral oil spray (not aerosol-based)
→ Optional Seasoning for Breadcrumbs
10 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
11 -
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
12 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
→ Dipping Sauce Suggestions
13 -
Ranch dressing
14 -
Sriracha mayonnaise
15 -
Garlic aioli
16 -
Honey mustard
# Instructions:
01 -
Peel the onions and slice into 1/2-inch thick rings. Carefully separate each ring. Reserve the smallest inner pieces for alternative uses.
02 -
Arrange three shallow bowls for dredging. In the first bowl, blend flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second, whisk eggs with buttermilk. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs with any optional seasoning desired.
03 -
Dust each onion ring in the flour mixture and shake off any excess. Dip in the egg mixture to coat completely, then transfer into breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere a thick layer. For extra crispness, double-coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
04 -
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
05 -
Lightly spritz the air fryer basket with oil spray. Lay onion rings in a single layer with adequate spacing for air circulation. Mist the tops of the rings lightly with oil spray. Work in batches if needed.
06 -
Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning half-way through. Remove when golden brown and crisp. Thicker rings may require an extra 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcrowding to maintain crunch.
# Notes:
01 -
Double-coating the onion rings results in exceptionally crunchy crust.
02 -
Overcrowding in the air fryer leads to uneven browning and soggy texture.