ONION RINGS
These Air Fryer Onion Rings are the ultimate guilt-free snack! They come out incredibly crispy and golden brown on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside, without the greasy mess of deep frying. A simple seasoned panko coating gives them that perfect crunch. Ready in just minutes, they're a healthier, family-friendly appetizer or side dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Flour Mixture:
- 1 Cup All-purpose flour
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 Teaspoon Onion powder
- ½ Teaspoon Paprika
- ½ Teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Salt 🧂
For the Wet Mixture:
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 2 Large Eggs 🥚
- 1 tablespoon Hot sauce optional
For the Coating:
- 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Regular breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon Salt 🧂
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
Main Ingredients:
- 2 Large yellow onions
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
- Peel and slice onions into 1/2-inch thick rings. Separate into individual rings, discarding the smallest inner rings. Pat completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper coating adhesion.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- Arrange three shallow bowls in assembly line fashion. In the first bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture
- In the second bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce (if using) until completely smooth. The mixture should be lump-free for even coating.
Step 4: Create Coating Mixture
- In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
Step 5: Coat the Onion Rings
- Working with one ring at a time, dredge in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press firmly into breadcrumb mixture, ensuring complete coverage on both sides. The coating should feel secure and thick.
Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Spray basket generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 7: First Cook Cycle
- Arrange coated onion rings in air fryer basket in single layer, ensuring rings don't overlap. Cook for 8 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 8: Flip and Finish
- Carefully flip each ring using tongs. Spray tops with additional cooking spray for maximum crispiness. Cook for additional 6-8 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Season and Serve
- Remove immediately and season with additional salt while hot. Serve within 2-3 minutes for optimal crunch.
Notes
🔹️Onion Selection: Yellow onions provide the best balance of sweetness and sharpness. Sweet onions work well for milder flavor, while red onions offer more bite.
🔹️Coating Secrets: The combination of panko and regular breadcrumbs creates the perfect texture – panko provides crunch while regular breadcrumbs help with adhesion.
🔹️Buttermilk Magic: Buttermilk tenderizes the onions and creates superior coating adherence compared to regular milk.
🔹️Temperature Control: Don't overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain proper air circulation.
🔹️Storage: Best served immediately, but leftovers can be reheated in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition
Calories: 185kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
