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Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Onion Rings
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Enjoy perfectly crispy and tender Air Fryer Onion Rings with less oil and full flavor. This quick and easy recipe delivers golden, crunchy rings with a juicy onion center, making a healthier alternative to traditional fried onion rings. Ideal as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these onion rings are customizable, gluten-free friendly, and great for all skill levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions

  • 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia), peeled and sliced into ¼-inch thick rings

Coating

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or garlic powder

Buttermilk Soak

  • 1 cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk like almond or oat for vegan option)
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Breadcrumbs

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free if needed)
  • Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for cheesy coating
  • Optional: Additional seasonings like dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary

Cooking

  • Cooking spray or oil mist

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and slice onions into ¼-inch thick rings. Separate the rings carefully to keep their shape intact and set aside.
  2. Make the Buttermilk Soak: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Submerge the onion rings in this mixture and let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften and infuse flavor.
  3. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three bowls: one with flour seasoned with half the salt, pepper, and optional spices; one holding the soaked onions; and one with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with any optional Parmesan or herbs.
  4. Coat the Onion Rings: Dust each onion ring in the flour mixture, then dip back into the buttermilk if needed, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a crispy finish.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to promote even cooking and optimal crispiness.
  6. Air Fry to Perfection: Arrange the coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil mist. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until the rings are golden brown and crispy.

Notes

  • Slice onions uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent crispness.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate freely and cook the rings evenly.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
  • Lightly spray oil before cooking to achieve a golden brown finish without greasiness.
  • For thicker coating, double dip in buttermilk and breadcrumbs before air frying.
  • To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; best eaten fresh.
  • Freeze uncooked, coated onion rings on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed bag; air fry directly from frozen when ready to eat.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness—avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, onion rings, crispy onion rings, healthier snack, gluten free onion rings, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/air-fryer-onion-rings/