These crispy air fryer onion rings are golden, crunchy, and made with no deep frying. A quick and easy snack or appetizer that’s perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or parties. Learn how to make homemade onion rings in the air fryer using simple ingredients and get perfectly crispy results every time. Save this easy air fryer recipe now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in under 20 minutes)
- Healthier than deep-fried onion rings
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Extra crispy with minimal oil
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Optional
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cayenne pepper for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the onions – Slice onions into rings and separate them gently.
- Set up breading stations – Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with spices in a third.
- Coat the rings – Dip each onion ring into flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the coating stick.
- Preheat the air fryer – Set to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Air fry – Arrange onion rings in a single layer. Spray lightly with oil and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot – Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs and spray generously with oil
- Gluten-free: Swap flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions
- Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to breadcrumbs
- Storage: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep for 2 days in the fridge
- Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 3–4 minutes
- Avoid: Overcrowding the air fryer basket
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo
- Pair with burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken
- Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan
- Best served hot and crispy straight from the air fryer
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – estimates)
- Calories: 210
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 7g
Conclusion
These air fryer onion rings prove you don’t need oil-heavy frying to get amazing crunch. They’re fast, simple, and perfect for any occasion from casual snacking to party platters. Save this recipe, share it, and enjoy crispy perfection anytime.
FAQ
Can I freeze air fryer onion rings?
Yes, freeze them after breading (before cooking) for up to 2 months.
How do I make them ahead of time?
Bread the onion rings and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before air frying.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 220°C / 425°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Which onions work best?
Yellow onions are classic, but sweet onions work great too.