Crispy onion rings served on a plate with a side of sauce
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Emma Lawson | 
15.07.2025

Onion Rings Air Fryer Recipe

Onion rings are a classic favourite that's even better when made in an air fryer. Discover how to make crispy air fryer onion rings with a panko coating, perfect for family gatherings or a snack. Learn tips on using sweet yellow onions and how to achieve a golden brown finish. Whether you're preparing homemade onion rings in an air fryer or tackling a frozen onion rings air fryer recipe, we've got you covered.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
15m
Total Time
25m
Yield
serves 4
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Vegetables
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Vegetables

Ingredients You'll Need for Onion Rings in Air Fryer

Essential Ingredients for Onion Rings

  • 2 large sweet yellow onions
  • 1 cup plain flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Light cooking spray

Beer Batter

Add a chilled beer to your batter for air fryer beer battered onion rings. The carbonation adds extra crispiness. Select a mild lager to complement the onion's natural sweetness. Ensure the batter is thick enough to coat without dripping excessively.

Choosing the Best Onions

Sweet yellow onions are ideal for their mild taste and ability to caramelise. They maintain a nice bite when cooked. Alternatively, white onions work too, but they are sharper in flavour. Always slice your onions evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Cooking Steps for Onion Rings in Air Fryer

These simple steps will guide you to make the most delicious onion rings.

  1. Cut onions into 1cm slices and separate into rings.
  2. Prepare seasoned flour dredge with flour, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each ring in flour, then egg, then panko coating.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray rings with oil.
  5. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  6. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

Keep Onion Rings Crisp

Only cook as many onion rings as can fit in a single layer to avoid sogginess.
Golden onion rings in an air fryer basket ready to be served

Nutrition for Air Fryer Onion Rings

Calories: 280 | Protein: 6g | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 10g

Serving Suggestions for Onion Rings in Air Fryer

These onion rings pair wonderfully with a garlic aioli or ketchup for dipping. Serve alongside burgers, or make them a snack at your next party. Consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat before cooking.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Onion Rings

Whether it's a snack or a side dish, air fryer onion rings are easy and satisfying. Make your own crispy air fryer onion rings by following our detailed recipe. Check out airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more exciting air fryer recipes and tips. You'll love how simple and delicious homemade onion rings in air fryer can be.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Onion Rings Air Fryer Recipe

Can I make frozen onion rings in the air fryer?

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Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are heated through and crispy.
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How do you make crispy air fryer onion rings?

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To achieve crispy onion rings, lightly spray them with oil and use a panko coating. Make sure to preheat to 400°F.
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Can I use a gluten free batter for air fryer onion rings?

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Absolutely, substitute regular flour with gluten free flour and proceed with the same method.
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Do air fryer onion rings taste the same as fried?

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Air fryer onion rings are less oily but still wonderfully crisp and flavourful.
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