Air Fryer Onion Rings

Crispy, golden, and made with far less oil than traditional frying, these Air Fryer Onion Rings are a lightened-up version of the classic snack or side. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked until perfectly crunchy, they deliver all the texture and flavor you love—without the deep fryer. Ideal for burgers, game day, or just a satisfying snack!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without the Grease – All the crunch, none of the mess.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 25 minutes.
Healthier Option – Uses less oil than deep-fried versions.
Perfect Snack or Side – Great with burgers, sandwiches, or on their own.
Customizable – Change up the seasoning or dip for your favorite flavor combo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Onion Rings:

• 1 large sweet onion (like Vidalia), sliced into ½-inch rings
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Cooking spray or oil spray (for crisping)

Optional Dips:

• Ranch dressing
• Spicy ketchup
• Garlic aioli
• Honey mustard

Tools You’ll Need
Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Whisk
Shallow dishes for dredging

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls:

1. Flour mixed with salt and pepper.
2. Eggs whisked with milk.
3. Breadcrumbs, panko, paprika, and garlic powder stirred together.

Step 2: Slice the Onion
Peel the onion and cut into ½-inch thick slices.
Separate into rings and choose the larger ones for best results.

Step 3: Bread the Onion Rings
Dredge each ring in the flour, shaking off the excess.
Dip into the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
Press gently to help the coating stick.
Place on a tray while you bread the rest.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Arrange onion rings in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
Spray the tops of the rings with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Step 5: Serve Hot with Your Favorite Dip
Serve immediately while they’re crispy with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Onion Rings
Use Panko – For a light, extra-crispy texture.
Press the Breading – Helps it stick and stay on during air frying.
Don’t Overcrowd – Space out the rings for even crisping.
Double Dip – For an extra thick coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
Serve Fresh – Best enjoyed right after cooking for peak crunch.

Serving Suggestions
With Burgers – A crispy, satisfying side.
On Sandwiches – Add a crunch layer to grilled chicken or veggie sandwiches.
As a Snack – With a spicy or creamy dipping sauce.
As a Topping – Pile on chili, hot dogs, or baked potatoes.
With Sliders – A crowd-friendly party pairing.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Lay on a baking sheet and freeze individually before transferring to a bag.

Reheating:
Air Fryer: 350°F for 3–5 minutes to re-crisp.
Oven: Bake at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.
Microwave: Not recommended—will soften the breading.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free panko and regular breadcrumbs.

2. Can I skip the flour?
Flour helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick better—so it’s highly recommended.

3. What onion works best?
Sweet onions like Vidalia are best, but yellow or white onions also work.

4. Can I make them vegan?
Yes—use plant-based milk and an egg substitute or aquafaba.

5. Are they spicy?
No—but you can add cayenne to the breading for heat, or serve with a spicy dip.

Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Onion Rings are the perfect way to enjoy your favorite crunchy snack with less guilt and all the flavor. Whether you’re making them for a game day feast or a weeknight burger night, these crispy rings are guaranteed to impress. Easy, addictive, and better than takeout—these belong in your regular rotation.

Try them once, and you’ll never look back at deep frying again!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: American / Snack

Nutritional Information (Per 6–8 Rings):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 340mg

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