Air Fryer Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful with a crispy coating. They cook up quickly and are perfect for a weeknight dinner, no frying mess involved!
I love how easy they are to make—just season, pop them in the air fryer, and relax while they cook. You’ll have a tasty meal in no time and your kitchen stays clean!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my favorite as the bone adds flavor and moisture while cooking. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick and keeps the pork moist. You can use melted butter, avocado oil, or even non-stick cooking spray as a substitute. Each will add a slightly different flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give great flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can skip the paprika. Instead, try Italian seasoning or a touch of cumin for a different flair.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds earthiness. If you have fresh thyme, feel free to use it instead—just double the quantity since fresh herbs are less potent!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops in an Air Fryer?
The key to juicy and flavorful pork chops is both seasoning and cooking correctly. Here’s how:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat if recommended. This ensures even cooking right from the start.
- Drying the Chops: Patting them dry removes moisture for better browning and flavor development.
- Not Overlapping: Place chops in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures even air circulation for a nice crust.
- Flipping: Flip halfway through cooking for an evenly cooked chop.
- Resting Time: Let them rest post-cooking. This allows juices to redistribute so your chops stay moist.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy and tender air-fried pork chops every time. Enjoy your meal!
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and approximately 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Overall, you can have juicy and crispy pork chops ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if your model requires it. Preheating ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture that can prevent them from browning properly.
3. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices will give your pork chops a delicious zesty flavor.
4. Season the Chops:
Brush both sides of the pork chops lightly with olive oil. Then, rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chop. Don’t be shy—make sure they’re well-coated!
5. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the prepared pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important that they do not overlap to allow for even cooking. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting time helps retain their juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy them with your favorite sides, like roasted Brussels sprouts!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook a little faster, so check the internal temperature around 8-10 minutes to ensure they don’t dry out.
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Frozen?
If your pork chops are frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re pressed for time, you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour until thawed. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The most reliable way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight can enhance their flavor. Use a simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. Just remember to shake off excess marinade before air frying!
