Onion Ring Chips – Crispy, Crunchy, and Seriously Snackable
If you’ve ever loved the irresistible crunch of a classic onion ring, get ready — these Onion Ring Chips take that obsession to a whole new level! They’re crisp, golden, perfectly seasoned, and dangerously easy to eat. Imagine the addictive satisfaction of chips, but with the sweet, savory punch of fried onions.
This recipe is what happens when onion rings meet potato chips — a light, crunchy snack that doesn’t need utensils, dipping sauce optional (but always welcome). Each bite delivers that warm oniony sweetness wrapped in a crispy shell.
Perfect for movie nights, game day spreads, or as a crunchy topping for burgers, sandwiches, or casseroles, these Onion Ring Chips prove that onions can be the star of the show.
Whether you air fry, bake, or deep-fry them, they come out irresistibly crisp every time.
What Makes These “Chips” Special?
Unlike traditional onion rings that are thick and sometimes heavy, these chips use thinly sliced onions coated in a light, seasoned batter that crisps up beautifully. The texture is almost wafer-like — delicate but satisfyingly crunchy.
They’re lighter, faster to cook, and easier to snack on, making them perfect for parties or last-minute cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: Every chip stays crunchy, even after cooling.
- Simple Ingredients: Just pantry basics — nothing fancy!
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Enjoy plain, dip in sauce, or crumble as a topping.
- Customizable: Spice them up or keep them mild — your choice!
Ingredients
For the Onion Ring Chips:
- 2 large yellow onions (sliced into thin rings)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking/air frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Peel onions and slice them into thin rings. Separate layers gently and pat dry with paper towels.
- Set up dredging stations: In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Pour buttermilk into another bowl. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Coat the onions: Dip each onion ring into the flour mixture, then into buttermilk, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
- For frying:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry a few coated onion rings at a time for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- For air frying:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray basket with oil.
- Arrange onion rings in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For baking:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange coated onions on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake 15–18 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or chipotle aioli.
Tips for Success
- Dry the onions well — moisture prevents crispiness.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan or air fryer basket; cook in batches.
- Adjust seasoning: Add parmesan, chili powder, or herbs for flavor twists.
Flavor Variations
1. Parmesan Herb Chips:
Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan and Italian herbs to breadcrumbs.
2. Spicy Kick:
Add hot sauce to the buttermilk or extra cayenne to the coating.
3. Gluten-Free Version:
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
4. Onion Crunch Topping:
Crush the chips and sprinkle over green bean casseroles, burgers, or soups!
Serving Ideas
- Serve in a snack bowl with dips for parties.
- Add to charcuterie boards for a salty-sweet crunch.
- Pair with burgers, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Toss them into salads for texture and flavor.
Why They’re “Better Than Store-Bought”
Store-bought onion chips can’t compete with the fresh sweetness and satisfying crunch of homemade ones. Plus, you control the oil, seasoning, and crisp level. They’re healthier, tastier, and far more rewarding to make from scratch.
Onion Ring Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice onions into thin rings and separate layers.
- Mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings in one bowl.
- Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl and breadcrumbs into another.
- Dip onions in flour, then buttermilk, then breadcrumbs.
- Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Drain on paper towels and season immediately.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Place in oven or air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.
- Freeze: Not recommended — best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
