Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings (Printable)
Golden, crunchy onion rings air fried and served with a zesty spicy mayo dip.
# What You'll Need:
→ Onion Rings
01 - 2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rings
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - ½ cup whole milk
07 - 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
08 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
10 - Olive oil spray
→ Spicy Mayo
11 - ½ cup mayonnaise
12 - 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
13 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
14 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - Salt to taste
# How-To Steps:
01 - Separate the onion slices into individual rings. Discard the smallest centers or reserve for another use.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. In the second, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth. In the third, mix panko breadcrumbs with smoked paprika and garlic powder.
03 - Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage. Press firmly into the seasoned panko, coating completely.
04 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for optimal crisping.
05 - Arrange coated rings in a single layer on a baking tray. Spray both sides lightly with olive oil spray to promote even browning.
06 - Transfer rings to the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches as needed. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crispy.
07 - While onion rings cook, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk until completely smooth and refrigerate until serving.
08 - Serve hot onion rings immediately with spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The crunch rivals any restaurant version but without the greasy aftermath
- They come together faster than delivery would arrive
02 -
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket will result in soggy rings
- Let the coated rings sit for 10 minutes before air frying to help the breading set
03 -
- Chill the onions for 30 minutes before slicing to reduce tearing
- Double dredge any thick rings for extra breading coverage