Air Fryer Onion Rings

Crispy, golden Air Fryer Onion Rings deliver that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. Perfectly seasoned and ready in about 25 minutes, they’re a healthier yet indulgent treat for snacks, burgers, or game day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than deep-fried – uses far less oil

• Crunchy coating – with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko

• Fast & easy – ready in under 30 minutes

• Perfect side or snack – great with dipping sauces

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into ¼″ thick rings

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or seasoned breadcrumbs)

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Olive oil spray (or cooking spray mist)

directions

1. Preheat air fryer
   Preheat to 400 °F (200 °C) for 5 minutes.

2. Prep onions
   Separate rings and set aside both whole rounds and smaller inner rings.

3. Set up breading stations

   • Bowl 1: mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Bowl 2: beat eggs until smooth.

   • Bowl 3: add panko breadcrumbs.

4. Coat rings
   Working in batches, dredge each ring in flour, shaking off excess, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.

5. Air fry
   Lightly spray both sides of rings with olive oil. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
   Cook 6 minutes, flip each ring, spray lightly again, and cook another 4–6 minutes until golden and crispy.

6. Serve
   Remove and serve warm with dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 (about 16–20 rings)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: ~25 minutes

Variations

• Crunch boost: Mix ½ cup crushed cornflakes into breadcrumbs

• Spice it up: Add ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder to flour mix

• Cheesy twist: Stir ¼ cup grated Parmesan into panko

• Gluten-free option: Use GF flour and breadcrumbs

storage/reheating

• Room temperature: Store up to one day—for best texture, re-crisp.

• Reheat: Air fry at 380 °F for 3–4 minutes or bake in oven at 375 °F for 5–6 minutes to restore crunch.

• Freeze: Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then store in a sealed bag up to 1 month. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I skip the flour step?

It helps the egg adhere better, but you can skip it and go egg → panko. Crust may be lighter.

Will they stick in the air fryer?

Lightly spray basket or use perforated parchment liner. Shake or flip halfway to prevent sticking.

Can I use breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes—but panko yields a lighter, crunchier texture.

Are these vegan-friendly?

To make vegan, use plant-based eggs (or aquafaba) and flax “eggs,” plus GF flour and breadcrumbs.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Spray well with oil and avoid stacking. Cook until deeply golden.

What’s a good dipping sauce?

Try ketchup, ranch, chipotle mayo, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli.

Can I make them ahead?

Prep and bread the rings, then air-fry right before serving for best texture.

Are onion types interchangeable?

Yes—sweet onions (like Vidalia) are great, but yellow or white onions work too.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—air-fry in batches. Don’t overcrowd the basket.

Why are some soggy?

Make sure oil spray is even, rings aren’t overlapping, and cook time is sufficient to dry moisture.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Onion Rings are a quick, healthier spin on a beloved classic—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and speedy prep, they’re perfect for snacking, serving with burgers, or impressing guests without the mess of deep frying.