Onion Ring Chips
Onion Ring Chips is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 188 calories per serving. Recipe by Kendrick BBQ on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 7 min
Cost: $5.44 total, $1.36 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large White Onion (peeled, sliced into 1/4‑inch rings using a mandolin)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, fine texture)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary (crushed between fingers)
- to taste Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)
- to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully preheat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Slice Onions
Using a mandolin set to 1/4‑inch, slice the peeled white onions into uniform rings. Keep the rings whole for best texture.
Time: PT5M
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Evenly spread the grated Parmesan over the parchment, forming a thin, continuous layer.
Time: PT2M
Arrange Onion Rings
Lay the onion rings on top of the Parmesan, slightly overlapping if needed, so the cheese adheres to the onion during baking.
Time: PT3M
Brush with Olive Oil
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the exposed tops of the onion rings with olive oil.
Time: PT1M
Season
Sprinkle crushed dried rosemary, salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the onions.
Time: PT1M
First Bake
Place the sheet in the center of the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 400°F
Flip and Finish Baking
Using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip the onion chips over and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 400°F
Rest
Remove the sheet from the oven and let the chips rest for 5 minutes; they will continue to crisp as they cool.
Time: PT5M
Serve
Transfer the chips to a serving platter and enjoy immediately with tzatziki, aioli, or your favorite dip.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 188
- Protein
- 9.5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 14 g
- Fiber
- 0.5 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of White Onion: Yellow onion
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano, Grated Asiago
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado oil, Canola oil
- Instead of Dried Rosemary: Fresh rosemary (1 tsp chopped), Thyme
Equipment Needed
- Mandolin Slicer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Pastry Brush
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl (optional)
- Tongs or Spatula (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Slice the onions uniformly (1/4‑inch) using a mandolin for consistent texture.
- Spread a thin, even layer of Parmesan on the parchment to prevent sogginess.
- Flip the chips halfway through baking to achieve even browning on both sides.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder with the rosemary.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan; pre‑grated cheese contains anti‑caking agents that can affect crispness.
- If you like extra crunch, sprinkle a tiny amount of panko breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.
Troubleshooting
Chips are soggy instead of crisp.
Make sure the Parmesan layer is thin and the oven is fully preheated. Increase baking time by 5‑10 minutes and flip halfway.
Cheese burns before onions are done.
Lower the oven temperature to 375°F and extend the total bake time by 5‑10 minutes.
Onion rings break apart while flipping.
Use a wide spatula or two large tongs and flip gently. If they’re too thin, consider using slightly thicker (5 mm) slices.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Re‑crisp in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; cheese may become rubbery after thawing.
Room temperature: Can stay crisp for 2‑3 hours in a sealed container; humidity will soften them.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Slice the onions and grate the Parmesan a day ahead; keep them covered in the fridge.
- Brush with oil and season just before baking to maintain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of crispy Parmesan onion chips in American BBQ cuisine?
Crispy Parmesan onion chips are a modern twist on classic Southern fried onion rings, replacing deep‑frying with a cheese‑laden oven bake. They reflect the American BBQ trend of using bold cheese flavors to add richness without extra oil, making them a popular snack at backyard gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of onion chip snacks in the United States?
In the South, onion rings are traditionally deep‑fried in buttermilk batter. In the Pacific Northwest, smoked onion chips are made on a grill. The Parmesan version popularized by channels like Kendrick BBQ adds an Italian cheese influence, creating a cross‑cultural snack.
How is the authentic traditional way to serve crispy Parmesan onion chips in Southern BBQ gatherings?
They are typically served hot on a platter alongside dips such as ranch, tzatziki, or a smoky aioli. The chips are presented as a side snack rather than a main dish, often paired with grilled meats and coleslaw.
What occasions or celebrations are crispy Parmesan onion chips traditionally associated with in American BBQ culture?
These chips are a favorite at summer barbecues, tailgate parties, and casual game‑day gatherings because they are easy to make in large batches and pair well with beer and grilled fare.
What other American BBQ dishes pair well with crispy Parmesan onion chips?
They complement smoked brisket, pulled pork, grilled chicken thighs, and classic sides like baked beans, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. A cool yogurt‑based dip balances the salty crunch.
What makes crispy Parmesan onion chips special or unique in American snack cuisine?
The combination of thin onion slices, a crisp Parmesan crust, and a light brush of olive oil creates a low‑fat, high‑flavor chip that delivers the satisfaction of fried onion rings without deep‑frying, making it both healthier and more convenient for home cooks.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy Parmesan onion chips?
Common errors include slicing the onions unevenly, using too much cheese (which can become soggy), and not flipping the chips halfway through baking. Also, skipping the preheat or opening the oven too often will prevent proper crisping.
Why does this recipe use a mandolin instead of a regular knife for slicing the onions?
A mandolin provides uniform 1/4‑inch slices quickly, ensuring each ring cooks at the same rate. Inconsistent thickness from a knife can lead to some pieces being undercooked while others burn.
Can I make crispy Parmesan onion chips ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can slice the onions and grate the cheese a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. After baking, store the cooled chips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and re‑crisp in a hot oven before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Kendrick BBQ specialize in?
The YouTube channel Kendrick BBQ focuses on approachable backyard grilling, smoked meats, and simple side dishes that complement BBQ. Kendrick emphasizes easy‑to‑follow tutorials with a casual, down‑to‑earth style.
How does the YouTube channel Kendrick BBQ's approach to American BBQ cooking differ from other BBQ channels?
Kendrick BBQ prioritizes minimal ingredient lists and equipment, often using pantry staples and basic kitchen tools rather than specialized smokers. The channel also highlights quick, snack‑size recipes like these Parmesan onion chips that can be made without a dedicated smoker.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
