Air Fryer Onion Rings are crispy, golden, and full of flavor without the need for deep frying. They are light, crunchy, and easy to make using simple ingredients. The air fryer gives them the perfect crisp texture while using much less oil than traditional frying. 
With a coating of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, these onion rings turn out just as delicious as restaurant-style ones. They make a great appetizer, side dish, or snack for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, or add them to burgers for extra crunch. Once you try them, you won’t miss deep-fried onion rings!
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because the air fryer circulates hot air around the onion rings, creating a crispy, golden crust without the extra grease. The combination of flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs gives them a light, crunchy coating that sticks well to the onions. A quick spray of oil helps them turn crispy and golden brown, just like deep-fried onion rings but with less mess and fewer calories.
Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. There’s no need to deal with hot oil or long frying times—just coat, air fry, and enjoy! You can also customize the seasoning by adding spices like paprika, cayenne, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. These onion rings are a great addition to burgers, sandwiches, or a snack platter. Whether you’re making them for a party or a quick treat, Air Fryer Onion Rings are a healthier and easier way to enjoy this crispy favorite!
Ingredients
Onions – The key ingredient, naturally sweet and crispy when cooked. Substitute: Shallots for a milder taste or red onions for a bolder flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy, crunchy coating. Substitute: Crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
Flour – Helps the batter stick to the onions. Substitute: Cornstarch for a lighter texture.
Eggs – Binds the coating to the onions. Substitute: Buttermilk for a softer, lighter crust.
Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor with a subtle savory kick. Substitute: Onion powder for extra onion flavor.
Tips
- Cut onion rings evenly to ensure they cook at the same time.
- Use a three-step breading process (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) for the crispiest results.
- Lightly spray onion rings with oil before cooking for a golden, crunchy texture.
- Cook in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for even crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch, as they soften over time.
How to Serve
Air Fryer Onion Rings are light, crispy, and full of flavor, making them a perfect side dish or snack. They taste just like deep-fried onion rings but with much less oil. These crunchy rings pair well with dipping sauces and can be served as an appetizer, side, or topping for burgers and sandwiches.
- Classic Style – Serve with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.
- Burger Topping – Add to a burger for extra crunch and flavor.
- Loaded Onion Rings – Top with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream for a fun twist.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Onion Rings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions sliced into rings
- ½ cup flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for spraying
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the coating – Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Coat the onion rings – Dip each ring into the flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Air fry – Arrange onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use a three-step breading process (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) for the crispiest results.
• Lightly spray onion rings with oil before cooking for a golden, crunchy texture.
• Cook in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for even crispiness.
• Serve immediately for the best crunch, as they soften over time.
Perfect for snacking.