Go Back

Crispy Air Fryer Banana Peppers

Golden, crunchy, and totally addictive. These air fryer banana pepper rings are the ultimate savory appetizer, delivering restaurant-quality crunch without deep frying.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 5 large fresh banana peppers or 2 cups jarred rings, dried very well
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt plus extra for finishing
  • 1 spray olive oil cooking spray

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • 3 Shallow Bowls
  • Tongs
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Slice fresh banana peppers into 1/4-inch rings and remove seeds. If using jarred, pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls. Bowl 1: Flour and a pinch of salt. Bowl 2: Eggs whisked with milk. Bowl 3: Panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Dredge pepper rings in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned panko, pressing gently so it sticks.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Arrange the rings in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Spray the tops generously with cooking spray.
  6. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through and lightly spraying again, until deeply golden brown and crispy.
  7. Sprinkle with a pinch of finishing salt immediately upon removing from the air fryer. Serve hot with ranch dipping sauce.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, or the peppers will steam instead of becoming crispy. Spraying the panko coating generously with oil spray is essential for a golden-brown finish.