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Air Fryer Onion Rings: The Ultimate Crispy, Guilt-Free Snack Guide

Air Fryer Onion Rings: The Ultimate Crispy, Guilt-Free Snack Guide

These Air Fryer Onion Rings are perfectly crispy, golden, and full of flavor—without the excess oil of deep frying. Made with panko breadcrumbs and a simple seasoning mix, they’re a lighter, healthier snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare and totally satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tablespoon water

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 large sweet onion, cut into ½-inch-thick rounds and separated into rings

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  • In a shallow dish, stir together the flour, smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

  • In a second shallow dish, lightly beat the egg with the water.

  • In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt.

  • Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

  • Dip the floured onion ring into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.

  • Coat the onion ring in the panko mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.

  • Lightly coat both sides of each onion ring with cooking spray.

  • Place onion rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

  • Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping at the 6-minute mark, until golden brown and crispy.

  • Cover and keep warm while cooking the remaining onion rings in batches.

Notes

  • Work in batches to keep the onion rings crisp and evenly cooked.

  • Press the panko firmly for maximum crunch.

  • Spray lightly but evenly—this helps achieve a golden color.

  • Serve immediately with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.