Peel onion and cut into ¼-inch slices. Separate rings.
To prepare batter, combine flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
Add egg and milk to flour mixture.
Whisk until smooth.
Pour breadcrumbs into a second bowl.
Dip each individual ring into the batter, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture.
Place battered rings in your greased air fryer basket without overlapping (You may have to do a few batches).
Air fry at 370º Fahrenheit for 8 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
Consistency Matters: Ensure the batter is neither too thick nor too thin. It should coat the onion rings evenly without dripping excessively. If the batter is too thick, thin it out with a little more milk. If it's too thin, add a bit more flour to achieve the desired consistency.
Preheat for Crispiness: Preheat your air fryer before adding the onion rings. This helps create a crispy exterior by immediately starting the cooking process once the rings are placed in the basket. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation, which aids in achieving even browning.
Avoid Overlapping: To ensure even cooking and browning, arrange the battered onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. If necessary, cook the rings in batches rather than overcrowding the basket. This ensures each ring receives adequate heat circulation for optimal crispiness.