Air Fryer Onion Rings: The Ultimate Crispy, Guilt-Free Snack Guide
These Air Fryer Onion Rings turn simple onions into a crispy, golden snack that tastes just like restaurant-style onion rings—without the grease. Thanks to the air fryer, you get a crunchy coating and tender onions inside using far less oil. They’re perfect for game day, as an appetizer, or anytime a crunchy craving strikes.
Ingredients
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2 medium onions, cut into ½–⅓ inch rings
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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3 cups Panko breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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½ cup buttermilk (or milk)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
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Peel the onions, slice them into rings, and separate into individual rings.
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In a shallow bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and half of the flour.
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In another shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, baking powder, and remaining flour. The batter will be thick.
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Roll the onion rings in the dry flour mixture until fully coated.
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Dip the onion rings into the batter, coating completely.
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Roll the battered onion rings in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick well.
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Place onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
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Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
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Remove once golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
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Use sweet onions: Vidalia or sweet white onions give the best flavor.
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Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
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Extra crunch: Lightly spray the onion rings with cooking spray before air frying.
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Make ahead: Cut onions up to one day ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
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Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.