(Serves 4)

These perfectly crispy air fryer onion rings deliver restaurant-quality results with less oil and mess. The combination of buttermilk-soaked sweet onions and seasoned panko coating creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior while keeping the onion tender and sweet inside. Each serving of 4-5 rings provides the ideal portion for a satisfying side dish. Serve these golden rings alongside classic smashed burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, BBQ pulled pork, fish and chips, or crispy chicken tenders. Complete the meal with creamy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, chipotle or garlic aioli for dipping, and pair it all with a cold craft beer or fresh lemonade for the perfect casual dining experience.

Ingredients

• 2 large, sweet onions (like Vidalia) – this will yield about 16-20 rings total, 4-5 rings per person
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (preferably olive oil based)

Directions

1. Prep the Onions
   • Peel onions and cut into ½-inch thick slices
   • Separate into rings
   • Select the largest 16-20 rings (save smaller rings for other uses)
2. Set Up Breading Station
   • Bowl 1: 1 cup flour mixed with ½ teaspoon salt
   • Bowl 2: Whisk buttermilk and eggs together
   • Bowl 3: Mix panko, paprika, garlic powder, remaining salt, and pepper
3. Breading Process
   • Dredge each ring in flour
   • Dip in egg mixture
   • Coat thoroughly with seasoned panko
   • Place on a plate while breading others
4. Air Frying
   • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
   • Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray
   • Place onion rings in a single layer (will require 2-3 batches)
   • Spray tops lightly with cooking spray
   • Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket
• Keep completed batches warm in oven at 200°F (95°C)
• Shake excess coating off at each breading step
• Ensure panko coating is pressed firmly onto rings

Storage

Best served immediately but can be reheated in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes if needed.

This recipe is perfectly portioned to give each person a satisfying serving of crispy, golden-brown onion rings while ensuring each batch comes out perfectly cooked in the air fryer.

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