Crispy, crunchy, flavor-packed Onion Rings… just like what you’d get at your favorite restaurant! This recipe is quick and easy, and so delicious you’ll never believe they’re made in an air fryer!
Onion Rings have always been one of my favorites and to say I’m excited about this air fryer version would be an understatement. They’re everything you’d expect from a restaurant – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with amazing flavor – right in the comfort of your own kitchen. And best of all… they’re made without ANY oil!
Ingredients
I used Vidalia onions, but if you can’t find Vidalia or prefer to use another sweet variety, feel free. I do find that sweet is better when it comes to onion rings as it has a milder, less pungent flavor.
2 medium Vidalia onions (approx. 1 pound total)
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 cup all purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
cooking spray
Instructions
Slice the onions – Cut off both ends, then slice onions into 1/4 inch slices and separate the rings.
Coat the onion rings – Place the flour and beaten eggs in separate bowls. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan and seasonings and mix well. Dip the rings in the flour (shaking off excess), then in the eggs until completely coated. Let any excess drip off, then dip in the breadcrumb mixture to coat. Place coated onion rings on a wire rack or a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
Fry them up – Spray air fryer basket with olive oil using an oil mister (**do NOT use aerosol cooking spray, as it can damage the inside of the basket**). Working in batches, transfer onion rings to the air fryer. Cook at 375° F for 6-8 minutes. Remove from the basket and continue with the next batch.
Recipe variations
Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to make this recipe your own:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs or a squeeze of your favorite hot sauce to the eggs
Cut the rings to desired thickness (thinner rings will require less cooking time)
Use regular or seasoned breadcrumbs in place of panko crumbs
For a thicker coating, dip the onion rings in the flour and egg, then repeat before dipping them in the breadcrumbs
Make them dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese
Add any of your favorite seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture
Tips for success
Use 2 smaller onions instead of one larger onion for more reasonably sized rings.
For the best flavor, choose a Vidalia or other sweet variety of onion.
Take your time with each step of coating, especially the egg step. Make sure no flour is showing, or the breadcrumbs won’t stick.
Use a separate fork to dip onion rings into each bowl (flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs). Using a fork instead of your fingers will keep things cleaner and make the coating process easier.
For the crispiest onion rings, use panko breadcrumbs every time!
Think twice before omitting the Parmesan cheese. It adds a delicious nutty flavor to the onion rings.
Storing & reheating
Leftover onion rings can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, return them to the air fryer at 350° F for 3-4 minutes and they’ll crisp right up!