Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings (Printable View)

Golden, crunchy onion rings crisped in air fryer, served with smoky, spicy chipotle mayo for dipping.

# Ingredient List:

→ Onion Rings

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→ Chipotle Mayo

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# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure optimal cooking temperature.
02 - Combine flour, baking powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a shallow bowl. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
03 - Whisk together eggs and buttermilk in a separate bowl until fully incorporated and smooth.
04 - Place panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl, creating a three-step dredging station.
05 - Separate onion slices into individual rings. Dredge each ring in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Press firmly into panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly, ensuring complete coverage.
06 - Place coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking. Lightly spray with olive oil.
07 - Cook in batches at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip rings halfway through cooking time and spray with additional oil. Cook until golden brown and crispy.
08 - Combine mayonnaise, chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Mix until completely smooth and refrigerate until serving.
09 - Serve hot onion rings alongside chilled chipotle mayo for dipping. Enjoy while crispy and warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

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  • The crunch rivals any restaurant version without the grease and mess
  • That smoky chipotle mayo will become your go-to dip for everything
  • You can double the batch and freeze extras for instant party food
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  • Crowding the air fryer basket creates steam and kills the crunch work in batches
  • Let the coated rings sit for 5 minutes before air frying this helps the coating set
  • The flip halfway through is non-negotiable for even coloring on both sides
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  • Thicker onion slices (1/2 inch) hold up better than thin ones during cooking
  • Double coating creates restaurant-style extra crunch that's worth the effort

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