Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings

• ▢ 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 tsp paprika
• ▢ 1 tsp salt, divided
• ▢ 1/2 cup buttermilk (or DIY: ½ cup milk + 1½ tsp vinegar/lemon juice)
• ▢ 1 egg
• ▢ 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ▢ 2 Tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 1 large yellow sweet onion, sliced ½-inch thick and separated into rings
• ▢ Oil spray, optional

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Coatings:
   Set up 4 shallow bowls or deep plates:
   • Bowl 1: Mix flour, paprika, and ½ tsp salt.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk together buttermilk and egg, then stir in ¼ cup of the flour mixture.
   • Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with ½ tsp salt and olive oil using a fork until well combined.
   • Bowl 4: Pour half of the panko mixture here (to switch out once the first gets sticky).
2. Prepare the Onions:
   Pat onion rings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
3. Bread the Rings:
   Using a fork, dredge each ring in the flour mix → dip into the buttermilk mixture → coat with the panko breadcrumbs.
   TIP: Freeze breaded rings for 15 minutes before air frying to help the coating stick better.
4. Air Fry:
   • Spray your air fryer basket lightly with oil spray.
   • Arrange the rings in a single layer (small rings can fit inside large ones as long as there’s space).
   • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 11–15 minutes, spraying lightly with oil at the 6-minute mark.
   • No flipping required!
5. Serve:
   Carefully lift onion rings using a spatula or fork. Serve hot with ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch, or your favorite dip!

💡 Tips for Best Results

• Use sweet onions for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip freezing the breaded rings—it really helps the coating stay on during cooking.
• Double-coat for extra crunch: repeat the dip and breadcrumb step for an ultra-thick crust.
• Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour mix.

🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 25g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g