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Crispy air fryer onion rings served on a plate

Air Fryer Onion Rings

Crispy and golden air fryer onion rings with a flavorful garlic-paprika coating, perfect for a snack or side dish without the mess of deep frying.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large onions Cut into rings about ¼-inch thick
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg Used in buttermilk mixture
  • 1 cup buttermilk For soaking the onion rings

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the onions into rings about ¼-inch thick and separate them.
  2. Soak the onion rings in a bowl with buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Lift the onion rings from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then coat each ring in the seasoned flour.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket and arrange onion rings in a single layer, lightly spraying the tops.
Cooking
  1. Air fry the onion rings for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crisp.
  2. Transfer to a wire rack and let them cool briefly before serving.

Notes

For the best results, do not crowd the basket, flip halfway for even color, and use a light spray instead of soaking for good browning. Cool on a wire rack to maintain crispness.