Step 1

Microwave the pearl onions for half the time given on the package. This was 2 minutes of microwaving for my onions. *see notes for alternative

Step 2

While they partially cook, add the egg to a medium bowl and beat.

Step 3

Add the flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to another bowl and stir to mix.

Step 4

Drain the partially cooked onions in a colander and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 5

Take 6 onions, dip them into the flour mixture and stir to coat.

Step 6

Use a fork to lift them out of the flour, shaking off any excess. Place them in the egg mixture and stir to coat.

Step 7

Use a different fork to take them out of the egg, letting any excess drip off. Put them into the flour mixture a second time and coat them with flour.

Step 8

Continue until all of the onions are coated.

Step 9

Place the prepared onions on a tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This will help the coating stick.

Step 10

Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees F for 3 minutes.

Step 11

Take the coated onions out of the fridge and put them in the air fryer basket. Keep them in a single layer.

Step 12

Spray them with some oil. Air fry at 380 degrees F for 3 minutes.

Step 13

Then shake the basket, spray some more oil, and air fry for another 3 minutes.