Description
Crispy and flavorful air fryer onion rings made with sweet onions coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture. These homemade onion rings are a healthier alternative to traditional frying, offering a crunchy texture without the excess oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Onions
- 2 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia)
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional
- Cooking spray, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Peel the onions and slice them into thick rings about half an inch wide. Carefully separate the rings and set them aside to ensure they remain intact for coating.
- Set up coating stations: Use three bowls: place flour in the first bowl, whisked eggs in the second, and combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
- Coat the onion rings: Take each onion ring and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, press the onion ring into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Arrange and cook: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated onion rings in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
- Air fry the rings: Cook the onion rings for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Monitor closely as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
- Serve hot: Once the onion rings are golden brown and crispy, carefully remove them from the basket and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder, sweeter flavor that contrasts nicely with the seasoned coating.
- For extra crispy onion rings, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste by adding cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
