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Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe Easy Extra Crunchy Snack

crispy air fryer onion rings - featured image

These crispy air fryer onion rings are quick, easy, and extra crunchy with a perfectly seasoned double-dip batter. A healthier alternative to deep-fried onion rings, perfect for snacks or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Large onions, preferably sweet yellow or Vidalia, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
  • 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Olive oil spray or any neutral cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut large onions into 1/2-inch thick rings. Separate the rings carefully to avoid breakage.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the buttermilk until smooth.
  4. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Optionally, toss in a pinch of salt and paprika for extra flavor.
  5. Working in batches, dip each onion ring first into the flour mixture, coating evenly and tapping off excess.
  6. Then dip the ring into the egg and buttermilk mixture, fully submerging it.
  7. Dredge the ring in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick well. Set coated rings on a plate or tray.
  8. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and warm for 3 minutes.
  9. Place a single layer of coated rings in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  10. Spray lightly with olive oil spray to help crisp the coating.
  11. Cook for 8 minutes total, flipping each ring and spraying again after 4 minutes, until golden brown and crunchy.
  12. Remove and transfer onion rings to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
  13. Repeat with remaining rings.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Double-dip the rings (flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs) for extra crunch. Spray lightly with oil before and after flipping. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. For gluten-free, substitute flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. For dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with almond or coconut milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar.

Nutrition

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