Air Fryer Crispy Calamari (Printer-Friendly)
Crispy calamari rings cooked in the air fryer, ready in minutes with a tender center and golden coating.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Seafood
01 -
1 pound raw calamari rings, fresh or thawed if frozen, patted dry
→ Breading
02 -
1 cup Italian seasoned Panko breadcrumbs
03 -
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
→ Binding
04 -
1 large egg, whisked
→ Seasoning
05 -
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
06 -
0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 -
Optional: 0.25 teaspoon Italian seasoning
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Thaw calamari rings if frozen. Pat rings completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispness.
02 -
Set out three shallow bowls: first with flour, salt, pepper, and any additional spices; second with whisked egg; third with Italian seasoned Panko breadcrumbs.
03 -
Dredge each ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in seasoned breadcrumbs.
04 -
For best results, preheat the air fryer to 360°F if your model requires it. Otherwise, proceed to the next step.
05 -
Place breaded rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding and work in batches if needed.
06 -
Air fry at 360°F for 6–8 minutes until the coating turns golden brown and the calamari is cooked through. Adjust duration for batch number or ring thickness.
07 -
Remove promptly and allow to cool slightly. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and dipping sauces such as marinara, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For an extra crisp finish, lightly mist the breaded rings with avocado oil spray before air frying.
02 -
Cooking multiple batches? Reduce cooking time slightly for subsequent rounds as the air fryer will retain heat.
03 -
Test doneness by piercing the thickest part of a ring; it should be tender throughout.