Air Fryer Onion Rings are crispy, golden, and absolutely delicious—without the excess oil! These homemade onion rings have a perfectly seasoned crunchy coating and a tender, flavorful center. They’re a healthier twist on a classic favorite, making them perfect for snacking, appetizers, or a side dish.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Without Deep Frying: Air frying gives them a crunchy texture with less oil.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes!
- Healthier Alternative: Less greasy than traditional fried onion rings.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or breading to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large onion (sweet or yellow, cut into ½-inch rings)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Three shallow bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or plate for prep
How to Make Air Fryer Onion Rings
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
- Slice the onion into ½-inch thick rings and separate them.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In the first bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and garlic powder.
Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings
- Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, dip it into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Air Fry the Onion Rings
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the onion rings in a single layer, leaving space between them. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Onion Rings
- Classic Ketchup
- Garlic Aioli
- Ranch Dressing
- BBQ Sauce
Tips for the Best Onion Rings
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They give extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Spray with Oil: A light spray helps with browning and crispiness.
- Use Sweet Onions: Vidalia or Walla Walla onions add a mild, sweet flavor.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp them back up.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked breaded rings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen for 10-12 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these without eggs?
Yes! Use buttermilk or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
Can I use regular breadcrumbs?
You can, but panko gives the best crunch.
Why are my onion rings soggy?
Make sure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer and that you’re spraying them lightly with oil.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Onion Rings are the perfect crispy, crunchy snack—without the guilt! With just a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic appetizer anytime.
Don’t forget to share your results and tag us online!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

Air Fryer Onion Rings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Description
Air Fryer Onion Rings are crispy, golden, and absolutely delicious—without the excess oil! These homemade onion rings have a perfectly seasoned crunchy coating and a tender, flavorful center. They’re a healthier twist on a classic favorite, making them perfect for snacking, appetizers, or a side dish.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion (sweet or yellow, cut into ½-inch rings)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Rings
- Slice the onion into ½-inch thick rings and separate them.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In the first bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and garlic powder.
Step 3: Coat the Onion Rings
- Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, dip it into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Air Fry the Onion Rings
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the onion rings in a single layer, leaving space between them. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They give extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Spray with Oil: A light spray helps with browning and crispiness.
- Use Sweet Onions: Vidalia or Walla Walla onions add a mild, sweet flavor.