These onion ring chips are the perfect alternative to heavy fried onion rings. They’re thinner, crispier, and incredibly snackable—ideal for parties, game days, or just satisfying your crunchy cravings. You can bake or air fry them for a healthier option, and the seasoning is easy to customize. Plus, they require fewer ingredients and cook up faster than traditional onion rings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
large onions (yellow or sweet) all-purpose flour cornstarch salt black pepper paprika garlic powder buttermilk or milk breadcrumbs or panko oil for frying or cooking spray for baking/air frying
Directions
Peel and slice the onions into very thin rings or half-rings.
Separate the onion slices and soak them in buttermilk or milk for 10–15 minutes.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs or panko.
Remove onion slices from the milk, letting excess drip off, then dredge them in the flour mixture.
Dip back into the milk briefly, then coat with breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry onion chips in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
To Bake/Air Fry: Place coated onion chips on a greased baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10–15 minutes Total time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture.
Cheesy Version: Mix finely grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Vegan: Replace milk with plant-based milk and skip the buttermilk soak.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Sweet Onion Chips: Use Vidalia onions for a naturally sweeter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Onion ring chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use red onions for this recipe?
Yes, but they will have a sharper flavor and slightly different texture when crisped.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and double-coat the onions (flour, milk, then breadcrumbs) for added crunch.
Can I make these in advance?
You can slice and soak the onions ahead of time, but bread and cook them just before serving for best results.
Are these chips healthier than regular onion rings?
Yes, especially if you bake or air fry them, as they use less oil.
What’s the best onion to use?
Sweet onions or yellow onions are ideal for their mild flavor and balanced sweetness.
Can I freeze onion ring chips?
Freezing is not recommended, as it affects the texture. They are best fresh.
What dips go well with onion ring chips?
Serve with ketchup, ranch, spicy mayo, or a garlic aioli for delicious dipping.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, air frying works great and gives a crispy finish with minimal oil.
Do I need to soak the onions?
Soaking helps soften the onions slightly and reduces sharpness, but it’s optional if you’re short on time.
How thin should I slice the onions?
For best results, slice onions about ⅛ inch thick or use a mandoline for even slices.
Conclusion
Onion Ring Chips are a fun, crispy snack that delivers all the bold, savory flavor of onion rings in a lighter, more snackable form. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side that’s perfect for sharing. Simple to make and full of crunch, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.
Onion Ring Chips are thin, crispy, and flavorful bites made from sliced onions coated in seasoned breading and baked, fried, or air-fried to golden perfection. A lighter and more snackable twist on traditional onion rings.
Ingredients
2 large onions (yellow or sweet)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup buttermilk or milk
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or panko
Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking/air frying
Instructions
Peel and thinly slice onions into 1/8-inch rings or half-rings. Separate slices.
Soak onion slices in buttermilk or milk for 10–15 minutes.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Place breadcrumbs or panko in another bowl.
Remove onion slices from milk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in flour mixture.
Dip them briefly back into the milk, then coat with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry onion chips in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
To Bake/Air Fry: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange onion chips on a greased tray or basket. Spray lightly with oil. Bake or air fry for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Use a mandoline for even, thin slices.Panko gives the crispiest texture, especially when air frying.Double-dipping (flour, milk, breadcrumbs) makes them extra crunchy.Best enjoyed fresh—avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain crispness.
