Introduction

Crunchy Onion Ring Chips are a delightful twist on classic onion rings, offering a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These chips are baked or air-fried for a healthier crunch without sacrificing taste.

A white plate holds a stack of golden-brown fried onion rings, each ring showing multiple layers of crispy, browned edges with a slight dusting of red spices on top, creating a textured look. The onion rings are arranged loosely, some overlapping, with small bright green parsley leaves scattered around and on top for color contrast. Around the plate, on a white marbled surface, there is a white small bowl of creamy white sauce and another bowl with a red spice mix visible near the edge of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 medium yellow onions
2 tablespoons avocado oil
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon seasoning salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
3 cups panko breadcrumbs
Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking or air frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Peel and slice 3 medium yellow onions into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick rings. Separate the rings carefully. For a milder flavor, soak the rings in ice water for 15 to 30 minutes, then drain thoroughly and pat them very dry.
Step 2: Prepare three shallow dishes for dredging. In the first, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sea salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne if using. Whisk well. In the second dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and ½ cup milk. In the third, combine 3 cups panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Step 3: Working in batches, dredge the onion rings first in the seasoned flour mix, shaking off excess, then dip them into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press each ring firmly into the seasoned panko mixture to create a thick, even coating. Arrange coated rings in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Step 4 (Bake): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly mist the coated onion rings with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely as ovens vary.
Step 5 (Air Fry): Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Place the onion rings in a single layer, lightly mist with cooking spray or oil. Air fry for 8 to 12 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Cooking time may vary depending on air fryer and ring thickness.
Step 6: Transfer the cooked chips to a wire rack to cool slightly for maximum crispness. While warm, sprinkle with extra sea salt to taste. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, spicy mayo, ranch, or homemade aioli.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the panko coating mixture.
Soaking onion rings in ice water reduces sharpness and enhances crispness after cooking.
Try different seasonings in place of paprika, such as chili powder or Cajun spice, for varied heat levels.
Use avocado oil or olive oil for a healthier fat option when baking or air frying.

Storage

Store leftover onion ring chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispness. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crunch before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with several golden brown onion rings that are crispy and have a rough, crunchy texture, arranged in a slightly overlapping pile. Each onion ring layer shows different shades of orange and brown from frying, with some areas appearing more golden and others slightly darker. Small green parsley leaves are scattered on and around the onion rings for garnish. To the side of the onion rings is a small white bowl containing a white creamy dipping sauce lightly sprinkled with reddish seasoning. In the background, there are fresh green herbs and a whole onion on a white marbled surface, adding natural colors to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these onion ring chips gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Be sure to use gluten-free cornstarch and seasonings as well.

What is the best way to get the crispiest onion ring chips?

Ensuring the onion rings are thoroughly dried before coating helps prevent sogginess. Also, use the triple dredging method (flour, egg wash, panko) and cook at the recommended temperatures, flipping halfway to achieve an even, golden crisp.